Everyone has their own personal stress reliever. When times get a little rough, there are multiple outlets that come to mind. As much as I love reading, writing and playing guitar, they never seem to really get my mind off of everything anchoring me down- but working out does.

At first it was hard. Forcing myself to go to the gym everyday was a huge struggle. Walking in, I felt insecure and clueless of where to even start. I looked around, watching all the strong and fit people, feeling more self-conscious than I already was. But I had to do it. I didn’t like what I saw in the mirror, let alone seeing myself in pictures. I used my insecurity as fuel. If you want change, the only person stopping you from doing it is yourself.

So I did it. I made the change.  

It was difficult for the first two months. A lot more difficult than I ever imagined. Even with the help of Andy, my insanely strong older brother, best friend and partner in crime, there was only so much he could assist with. I was doing this for myself.  Self-improvement is a struggle, mentally and physically, and honestly it’s never truly over. But, I found it getting easier and easier as the days passed by. I found that there is always room for improvement, no matter what.

Those days turned into weeks and those weeks turned into months, and in that time I started to love myself more and more everyday. I could look in the mirror and smile. I could look at a picture and not point out all the negative aspects anymore. Instead, I started to point out all the features that I loved about myself. It made me realize that if I want change, I have to do it myself. No one is going to do it for me.

Here I am now, almost three years later and happier than ever. Going to the gym has become a part of my daily routine and it has so many perks. Along with looking better, I feel better. I’ve made amazing friends at the gym and I look forward to whatever is ahead of me as I step through those doors. Something that may seem so simple and insignificant to others has had a huge impact on my life and who I am.

Only you have the power to change whatever may be the burden blocking your road to true happiness. Where will you start?