Growing up with four older brothers I was a complete tomboy who loved sports. I played throughout high school, but decided not to compete at a collegiate level. I have always enjoyed running, so I kept up with that and became a cardio bunny, occasionally lifting some light weight here or there. In 2012 I dated someone who got me into power lifting. I loved it! It was exciting to have new quantifiable goals and to see my body change in ways I had never experienced. I wasn't focusing on the scale anymore. It wasn't just about how my body LOOKED, but what my body DID. Eventually I felt like I needed to clean up my diet to see the results I wanted to see. I started working with my coach Amber Orton Fokken for nutrition and just two months later decided to take the plunge into competing in the bikini division. I am hooked!
I always say that those hours I spend in the gym are my "meditation". It's a great time to focus on myself, work out any emotions, set some goals, and achieve those goals!. If you stay consistent and work hard you CAN achieve any goal you set your mind to. It's a daily practice. You're not going to PR everyday. It's about remaining consistent and keeping those goals in sight.
Bodybuilding/working out has also introduced me to an entire new community; both in person and online. I have met some of my best friends in the gym over the last year and so many wonderful people online! When you're surrounded by likeminded people it's easier to achieve your goal.
I firmly believe positivity perpetuates itself. Bodybuilding has helped me reach my best self to date. Not just in the gym, but in all other areas of my life.