Don't play small (Jacked up!)

If you've seen me in the last week or so, you may not be able to tell, but I'm really excited about competing this weekend. I'm kind of BLAH right now ... lethargic is the best word to describe how I'm feeling. Not sure if that lead to my feelings of doubt and insecurity yesterday. I was questioning whether I was ready ... whether I had what it takes to come out on top (because I want nothing less) ... whether I was expecting too much of myself. Who do I think I am ... thinking I can win my PRO card? So as I made my way to the gym yesterday, I was surrounded by a cold cloud of doubt. Then I got an amazing compliment that snapped me out of my phase of feeling sorry for myself. I ran into someone who works in the fitness industry who I truly admire. She's a pro fitness model and trainer .. and in my eyes always looks amazing! She gave me the biggest boost of confidence. She told me she saw me from behind and said "Wow she's jacked up!". She said I looked "healthy with nice full muscles". Best compliment ever! Pumped me up for the rest of the day!
So that reminded me of that speech from Nelson Mandela that tells us not to play small. Who am I not to go for my PRO card?! I will continue to visualize my victory!

Please, take the time to read (below) what Nelson Mandela said back in 1994 during his Presidential Inaugural Speech.

Our greatest fear is not that we are inadequate, but that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, handsome, talented, and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God.

Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We were born to manifest the glory of God within us. It is not just in some; it is in everyone. And, as we let our own light shine, we consciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our fear, our presence automatically liberates others."

--Nelson Mandela, 1994 South African Presidential Inaugural Speech, quoting spiritual leader Marianne Williamson of the Church of Today in Detroit.