So I have a lot of people asking me why and how I got into working out and what exactly it was that inspired me. I'd like to start by saying: "Don't judge a book by its cover." I say this because to many people I look like the girl who's pretty, smart, and has had a lot going for her; however, when I look on the mirror I see a girl who has struggled, been hurt, and will have permanent scars that can never be erased. Having three brothers I grew up as a tom boy, as if that wasnt awkward enough, I also had an ill proportioned body and was overweight for my age. Every day I was made fun of and would come home from school crying and begging my mom to not make me go back. I grew to hate myself and my body, unfortunately this led to my depression, eating disorder (bulimia then anorexia), and finally cutting. It's tough looking back on that girl I was. Waking up everyday wishing I were dead, having no hope for my future.. Not many people can understand what it's like to go through this-- I wouldn't wish it upon my worst enemy. It's dreadful. Thankfully though, I recovered slowly but surely. It was hard but I continued to push forward. However I was faced with my next challenge life had for me: my abusive ex boyfriend. It's funny how you can love someone so much and fall victim to their games. Almost two years of verbal, psychological, and phstcial abuse until I realized he wasn't going to change. It's hard when you're trapped in a situation like that. I still have nightmares to this day about the things he did to me. My life has been one huge roller coaster and has hit me so many times but looking back I realized that I got through all that. I took the hit and got back up. I moved forward and became a stronger person. Feeling strong and confident in who you are as an individual is truly one of the greatest gifts a person can give themselves. I've learned to never give up because if you don't give up then you can't fail. Keep trying, push harder. You will succeed. I've taken my doubts, my insecurities, and my traumatic experiences to motivate me towards being a stronger person. My weaknesses have made me who I am today and they will push me to become a better person everyday. This is why I workout. I will never let something or someone get me so down ever again. I am my own individual person, I am confident, I am successful, and I am happy.