Transformation Tuesday | Losing An Entire Person
I was a big girl my whole life – constantly facing the everyday battle of judgment, criticism and bullying since grade school. I had no knowledge base when it came to health or nutrition. As I grew older, the severity became more apparent and recognizable in my life. By the time I was in high school, I hit a whopping 235 pounds.
But because I had been heavy all my life, I felt that was “who I was”; it was all that I knew. Nevertheless, I would wish upon a star any chance I got to be skinny. I felt helpless: trapped in my own body. As the pounds piled on, I noticed my health taking it’s toll. I couldn’t walk up a few stairs without losing my breath. I knew it was time for a change.
I’m a makeup artist, and at that time I practiced my profession regularly – applying makeup for countless models. Oh, how I envied them… but it wasn’t until the photographer sent a picture of me applying makeup on a model that it really hit me. I was horrified. I could not believe how big I allowed myself to become. Something in me lit that day…like a match to a flame.
I told myself that day that it was time I stopped wishing and took action in my life, for my life. I promised myself I would give it my all and never give up on my dream because I knew that I was worth the fight.
I read books, articles, and researched all of the fundamentals of a healthy lifestyle. I ate healthy; and followed a low calorie, high protein diet. I set realistic and attainable goals for myself. I made time instead of excuses. I did not hold back because I wanted it off for good! As time went by I got closer and closer to my goal, and then surpassed it. It took me 7 months to lose 100 pounds.
With that I gained confidence and began to open up to life and opportunities I never would have considered before. I was inspiring others to change their lives which pushed me further and stronger as an individual.
Within a matter of time people started asking me what I was doing and I shared my story with them. I began with Zumba fitness. Not only did I learn several dances from all around the world, but I enjoyed working out. I also build a huge support system! I had an entire Zumba family. All in support of one another’s successes, no matter how small. Inspired, I quickly became an instructor and continued to move up the ladder; challenging myself with each and every step.
I began earning certifications for the more advanced fitness areas such as Beachbody’s Insanity and P90X. I became a Beachbody coach and met many more fitness fanatics. The whole time I was my biggest competitor. I came to the realization that everything in life is mental; therefore any goal is attainable.
So face any challenge headstrong and know your worth because any goal is achievable and obstacles are merely chances to improve yourself. I train religiously now and I continue to improve my health and hope to inspire others to do the same. This is a never-ending journey and there is no finish line so aim high and never give up!
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