My fitness journey began when I was just 14, driven by a determination to avoid the body image struggles I saw in my mother and her friends. My goal was to have abs and never experience the “mom belly” that I witnessed them complain about. At a young age, I watched them voice their dissatisfaction with their bodies and vowed to myself that I’d never let that happen to me.

As I grew older, my dedication to fitness deepened. By the time I had my own baby, I was already well-versed in training, which helped me bounce back quickly, even though my body changed in ways I hadn’t anticipated.

A new growth phase began despite consistent gym visits and lifting heavy weights. I found myself stuck and unhappy with my physique, driven by anger and frustration—I would push myself hard, neglect my form, and look forward to indulgent cheat meals and weekends of drinking. This cycle continued until I decided I wanted more and set my sights on competing.

I cleaned up my diet, used the muscle I had accumulated over the years, and decided to step on stage. Balancing this with a full-time corporate job and raising my son completely on my own, I eventually won the title I was after naturally. However, the toll it took on my body and mind was significant. I pushed myself to the limit, doing whatever it took to win, and once I achieved it, I crashed.

Keeping it all silent, I struggled with binge eating, body dysmorphia, and feelings of unworthiness. I felt like a fraud, frustrated over hormonal issues, and lost in a confusing space. The relentless pursuit of perfection led to burnout, binge eating, and a deep sense of unworthiness—all of which I kept hidden.

Overcoming these challenges was one of the hardest battles I’ve faced. Binge eating felt like a drug, but I never gave up. Each struggle was a new level of growth. Through many types of healing modalities, I fought my way through and finally reached a place where I could breathe. I’ve let go of chasing perfection.

Today, I’m vegan, emotionally healing, free from binge eating, and embracing self-love and acceptance. While I still have moments of self-doubt—especially during that late luteal phase—I’m clearer and more grounded than ever. My focus now is on helping and guiding other women who face similar challenges. My journey has taught me that growth is ongoing, and I’m here to support others as they navigate their own paths.

I completely love and accept where I am. Do I still have days where I nitpick myself apart? Hell yeah, I do (especially during that late luteal phase)! But my goal and focus now is to help and guide other women facing and overcoming the challenges I have experienced.