I recently took this quiz about the things that motivate me to live my best life. Turns out, to nobody’s surprise, that I’m deeply motivated by achieving success through setting and reaching goals – especially health and fitness related goals.
The quiz asks you to rank how fulfilled you feel in your life from 1-100, and to think about the attributes that someone living a fulfilled life would have. My first choice? A positive attitude. Everything you do and experience is filtered by your attitude, and that’s what I’m going to remember as I enter competition prep mode for 2016.
As you may know, I recently became a professional figure competitor, so I’m going to be prepping for my first pro competition. This is huge for me! I’ll be seeing how I stack up against the best figure competitors in the world, and taking my first shot at competing at the Joe Weider Olympia – the most important and prestigious competition in the bodybuilding world. The stakes are HIGH.
So how will I make the most of this figure competition prep experience, even when it’s really, really hard? (Because it will get really, really hard.) By setting my #fullosophy for the season now, and not letting it out of my sight:
I will whole-ass my workouts.
No wimpiness, only 100% effort.
I will think highly of myself.
I’m beautiful, strong, and capable. My potential is endless!
I will treat myself with respect.
I’ll get enough sleep. I’ll make sure to take time to do activities I enjoy. I’ll spend time with people who make me happy, not sad. And I’ll trust the process.
I will compete only against myself.
Yes, I’ll be on stage against other women, but I can’t control them. What I can do is be the best version of myself.
Follow along with me! I’ll be documenting my figure competition prep process here on the blog and on Instagram under #proprepdiaries.
Here is my starting point photo (18 weeks out):
Are you inspired to find out what motivates you to live YOUR best life? Take the LIFE. TO THE FULLEST. quiz here!
I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.
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alissa says
I do not look like you. You look great. I need to work out more! I was doing stairs and other exercises in the morning, but my husband redid the steps. That project is still not finished. I need to find something else to do.
Lisa Rios says
A positive attitude is something which stands as a highest priority for me as well & I agree you always need to think high of yourself. no matter what you face around. I just love that 18-weeks out picture!
Geanine says
You look amazing! thank you for sharing your quotes and experiences, and good luck on your competition journey.
Carrie says
Thank you so much for sharing this with us. It’s definitely a motivation tool. Also, you look fantastic!
Lindsey K says
You look great! Good luck with your training. I just started my journey to fitness a month ago. I’m already feeling stronger and fitter. Any advice for a newbie?
Chanel | Cultural Xplorer says
Fist of all, yay for having the same name! 😀 Second, these are great goals you have set for yourself and I really like that Roy Swanson quote – think I might have to use that one. Best wishes to you and Happy New Year!
Chantal says
Wow you look amazing! Keep up the hard work! I love the quote about whole-assing one thing, that’s amazing! I agree a positive attitude is essential! Wishing you all the best for 2016!
Julie says
I wish you the best of luck with your goals this year! I’m loving the Ron Swanson quote you included. It really is true that you should give every workout your full effort.
Pam Flynn says
So many ways to keep healthy both mentally & physically. I love all the positve, upbeat tips.
Jonathan Key says
We are our worst enemy. Competing against yourself is key! Best wishes to you in 2016!
Krystal says
It is going to be quite the year for you! I love the idea to only compete against yourself! It can be so hard to play the comparison game against others especially women. The best advice is to just be you and work hard, train hard, and enjoy it!
Ashleigh says
I have heard how brutal it is to prepare for these competitions. It’s great to see how dedicated you are!
Amanda McMahon says
Good luck and congrats on all that you’ve done so far! Never give up is something we all need to believe!
Shannon Gurnee says
That’s a great decision to compete only against yourself! Looks like you are rocking it girl!!!
Lisa Joy Thompson says
I love that you have made the decision to compete only against yourself! Too many times we compare ourselves to others and find ourselves falling short! I think you look amazing and can’t wait to follow your journey. I have friends that are figure competitors and I’m floored by the dedication and hard work they put in!
amy ditmore says
What a huge undertaking, Joe Weider wow! You are gorgeous and look amazing, good luck on your prepping 🙂
melisasource says
Wow I love the excellent shape you are in! I would love to get my body like that one day!
Tyra says
Wow you are in great shape! That is incredible. I like the idea of only competing against yourself. It is so easy to get caught up in everyone else’s progress and forget to run your own race. I am going to be working on that in 2016.
Toni says
You are in amazing shape! I am going to kick up my workout routine in 2016! Going to have to head over and take this quiz!
trodden says
A positive attitude does help in life with all the ups and downs. Good for you.
Fi Ní Neachtáin says
Oh my goodness, you’re in amazing shape! I want to get fit, toned and slimmer once my second baby arrives in May. You’re an inspiration though and the challenges you’re setting yourself are perfect. Competing against yourself is a good one because sometimes we can get too worked up in comparing ourselves to others. Best of luck in your first pro competition.
Valerie says
These are wonderful things for you to remember. I think competing against only yourself is the best one!
Marielle Altenor says
My family is what drives me to live life to its fullest! They make me want to be better myself everyday!
Shell says
You are an inspiration! I’ll have to take this quiz!
Shantha Wetterhan says
So inspiring! I love this post. 🙂 Happy New Year!!!
Nikki says
You’re very inspiring, I love your being motivate and positive, good luck to you in 2016.
Nicole Escat says
Woah. You’re amazing, well best of luck to us this coming 2016.
adriana says
This is so amazing and very inspiring! Good luck with everything!!
Sicorra@NotNowMomsBusy says
Love your on-going commitment. Good luck. I know you will do well.
Amanda says
Wishing you good luck – but with your positive attitude you might not need it 🙂
Debbie @ Traveling Well For Less says
Wow, very inspiring and motivating post. You can do it! I’m sure you’ll rank at the Joe Weider Olympia contest – when did they change the name. I remember when it was the Mr. Olympia and Mrs. Olympia competitions.
Love your quotes and positive affirmations. Go kick some butt in September. 🙂
Chanelle says
You’re right – it’s still called Mr. Olympia for short! 🙂 I’m ready to kick butt for sure.
Cara (@StylishGeek) says
What a wonderful post! I am in a similar campaign with Abbot and what motivates me to live a full life is my family. I love how you have stated what makes your life full and also included photographs as a testament! I am definitely inspired by your beliefs and accomplishments. Thanks for sharing!
Tara says
Very inspiring! I love your about section too!
Dhemz Apdian - Dias says
wow, how inspiring! Wishing you the best of luck. You can do it!
Tammilee Tips says
Good luck at your competition!! I think you look amazing, will be great to see how you are able to further develop your muscles closer to the competition. Love that you will only compete with yourself and not other women.
Birdiebee says
Wow, you look great! I really need to get back to the gym and start working out again. Thank you for inspiring me.
Mimi "MimiCuteLips" Green says
This is just what I needed to see and read to get my fat ass off the sofa. I’ve got to do better, I swear I do.
Pam says
You certainly do live your best life and it shows! A positive attitude and hard work are so key and you have them both. Good luck to you in your competitions and I look forward to following your progress.
CourtneyLynne says
You look great!!! I always had competing in an NPC show in bikini on my bucket list for years! Before I had my daughter I literally lived at the gym so I always figured why not make something of it lol….Maybe one day I will buckle down and actually do it.
Chanelle says
You should! It’s so motivating to have a competition to work toward.
Michele D says
Your hard work has paid off girlfriend. You look fantastic. I wish you well throughout your competition.
Tanisha @ ThriftyNYmom says
Wow you look great! Love the quote, its so true! 🙂
Your hard work is definitely paying off, good luck on your competitions!
Seattle Travel Blogger says
You really look great; your hard work is so noteworthy!
I plan on giving my husband that quiz so he could take it – I think it could be useful for those going through career transitions, as he finds himself doing now.
Thanks for finding this information – I hope to put it to use.
Good luck with your continued success (as I am sure it will be so).
Jaclyn Anne says
You look amazing, I can’t wait to follow along and read how you kick butt in those competitions!!
By the way, I LOVE that quote – “Never half-ass two things. Whole-ass one thing.” – it is silly, but legit. If you want something put your all into it!
Chanelle says
Agree! It’s one of my faves 🙂
Jasmine Watts says
You look amazing.. And your positive attitude will help you to get the Top!! Thanks for such great inspiration!!
tauyanm says
treat yourself indeed! and dont let anything go in the way you’re supposed to go! so jelly with your banging body!
Kait says
You look incredible! Go get ’em! This has definitely made me realize how much I need to get back to my running. It is so important to have a passion and set goals for yourself.
Chubskulit Rose says
You look amazing. Good luck to you, I am sure you will get to the top!
Rosey says
Wishing you so much luck, and def. following along w/the hashtag. It’s going to be an amazing new year!
Ana De- Jesus says
This is amazing the amount of skill must be vast in getting your figure like that.
Jojo Vito says
whoah, I like your determination and you know exactly where you are heading…Goddluck!
Rebecca Swenor says
You attitude along with your positive thinking is going to get you to your goals and inspire so many other people. I am looking forward to you sharing your successes from your competitions. Last but not least I love the swim suit. The metallic green looks amazing on you. Thanks for sharing and inspiring.
Victoria says
These are absolutely a great tips. Congrats to your journey
Foodie. Wife. Life. says
I look forward to following along in your progress, as I’ve always been fascinated by figure competitions and the discipline it takes to do such things. You are so beautiful and your motivation is inspiring. I’m really excited to see your growth throughout this process. You’ve definitely inspired me to get off my arse. 😉
Kiwi says
Congrats on your upcoming body building competition! You are motivating me, your body is amazing and your mantras are powerful!
Janeane Davis says
I like your attitude about your competition being yourself. That attitude will help you go far.
Amber NElson says
Wow, your body is insane! I really don’t think I could ever have the motivation or determination to do what you do!
R U S S says
Health. Health. And it’s still health that I’m going to focusing on in 2016. I’m still young but not getting any younger so I need to make sure that I’m living my life well. Your determination inspires me. I hope I’d be able to achieve the same fitness stuff you did.
Claudette says
All the best to you in 2016 with all you set your heart on!
Shaun says
You look amazing!! You’ll rock this competition like it’s your job! 🙂
Chrysa says
Wow! You motivate me too to just do a “little” more at least!! Good luck with the competition. I am sure you will rock it!
CAROL CASSARA says
I watch the figure models at my gym and admire their dedication and hard work, you too!
Carol Bryant says
Your confidence pops right off the screen and you are so inspirational. I love the “whole ass” quote you shared, too – go for it and have a happy, healthy, successful new year. Loved getting to know you better on this blog in 2015.
Michelle F says
Good luck on your journey! Those are some great tips!
Maureen says
So so awesome! You look fantastic and you had a great mindset already. Your figure is amazing WOW big kudos.
Kalee says
You look amazing, and I know you will do amazing in the competition!
I love the two resolutions of:
I will treat myself with respect, and I will compete only against myself.
Great words to live any day by!
Elizabeth O. says
Wow! I can’t imagine what you go through to prepare for such competitions, but I admire you for it! Confidence is always key, I love your pointers. Make sure to live by them throughout the competition!
Michele says
I just took that quiz—-hum wonder what the results will be—-
Cindy (Prime Beauty) says
Competing only against yourself is wonderful advice!
Mama to 5 BLessings says
LOL I am that whimpy person when I work out! Looks like all your hard work has really paid off!
Toni | BoulderLocavore says
I love your attitude. AND that your positive attitude is about all you can be; not based on what you think you are not or putting others down. You’ll do great!
Jeanine says
Gosh, Look at you! You look amazing. I am excited to see how you get along and whats to come, very exciting! You have a wonderful attitude!
Chasing Joy says
You look amazing. I am excited to follow along as you prepare. I love your plan to whole ass it.
Kim Croisant says
Good luck to ya!!! Being in shape is so important and having a positive attitude is even better. You look great by the way. Keep it up
Ora Lee Gurr says
A positive attitude and commitment are the right tools to success. You look good and your great attitude makes you a winner already.
Marcie W. says
I love your positive mantras and can not wait to follow along on your competition journey! Your before photo is a total inspiration so I can not wait to see you in 18 weeks!
Meagan says
Wow, you look amazing! You’ve inspired – I NEED to get back to the gym!
Mardene Carr says
I know exactly what inspires me and I have always known…..good luck to you
Michelle says
sounds like you have a great attitude which will come in handy as things getter harder as you prepare for the competition. i’m interested to see what my results would be from the quiz I guess i’ll have to take it and find out
Brandi Penguins in Pink says
Wow you look amazing! You are so focused and determined, I’m sure you will achieve your goals. You are going to own 2016!
Julie Syl Kalungi says
WOhooowooowww double wow, You Look amazing, you are inspired and inspire me to do more for my Figure too!
It would be amazing if you shared some of your fitness & lifestyle tips along your journey. That will attract a shed load of fans for you too and of course get more people focusing on our fitness to.
Cheers mate!
Paula Schuck says
Good luck on your shows. I’m no judge, but I think you look absolutely fantastic. I love the quote, too. We should all only compete with ourselves.
andi says
we all gotta “show up” in every phase of our life
angie says
love it wow so much power packed in this post with truth behind it as well thanks for the inspiration
Karissa @WithOurBest (@withourbest) says
Wow girl! You are rocking it! I struggle with getting my workouts in, and then these photos are so inspiring!
Jessica Harlow says
I’m eager to follow along on your journey! You have set a high goal, but have prepared yourself mentally/emotionally for the best outcome too. I love the concept of approaching your goal whole-ass. 🙂 lol
Maggie says
I too love the quote! It’s so true. And a positive attitude is everything! Wishing the best to you in the coming year
Ayesha says
My motivation is my family. I want to give them the best!
Good luck and wishing you all the best!
You can do it!
Eileen says
I love your commitment. I made some major life changes to how I eat and exercise a few years ago. I certainly do not look like you – although I wish I did! Cannot wait to follow your road of success in competition
Emerald says
I whole-ass it at all times. Anything less is a great way to fail or at least not be as good as I can.
Chanelle says
Totally – it stinks to be kicking yourself in the end, knowing that you could have done more!
Stacie @ Divine Lifestyle says
I’ve heard about contest prep. I can’t even imagine how hard that gets! My family is my motivation for keeping my blog being as best as it can be.
tara pittman says
My motivation for work is to make money so I can go on trips.
Jeannette says
I love your goals and I like how they are more about you than competing with others! Good luck in your competition and I can’t wait to see how you do!
Eileen says
I love the quote about to never half ass anything! That is definitely true. If we want something, we should put our whole heart into it. Wishing you all the best!
Annemarie LeBlanc says
All we need is a lot of positivity and goal setting in life. I love how you are determined to achieve your goals. Wishing you all the best!
Shalama says
Congratulations on being a pro and onto prep time. I competed in my first figure competition this past November. I am currently on prep for my second show in March. I’m excited about the new challenge and what things will turn out like this season. It’s crazy to believe I am saying it but I love watching my body transform and seeing how strong I have becoming in the past few months. Good luck!
Chanelle says
That is AMAZING! Congrats on your first show. Do you have an Instagram where I can follow you? Mine is @chanmeleon.
Milena says
I’m loving the positive self talk. We all need a little more of that in our life! You go girl!
Rebecca Bryant says
WOW!! Girl you look amazing. I agree with another commentor you don’t need a quiz to tell you that you are motivated and inspiring. You are going to rock this up coming competition.
Chanelle says
Aww shucks, thank you!
Jason Young says
No quiz necessary to tell you’re deeply motivated. The results speak for themselves.
Esther @ The Cuteness says
These are great tips that can be applied to pretty much anything! I love that you only compete against yourself, that’s a great one. We all know comparison is the thief of joy!
Michele says
I will compete only against myself. I so agree with that philosophy-no matter what it is you want (are going to) to accomplish! SHE CAME SHE SAW SHE CONQUERED is what I repeat to myself when need be!!
amanda mcmahon says
Wow! I’m glad you said not to compete against you… 🙂 great job and keep it up.
Heather Johnson says
Good luck with all your endeavors! Having a positive attitude is definitely one of the most important things to have when striving for your goals.
Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
I agree. It’s much tougher to get it done when you have a poor attitude.
Melody says
loving the inspirational quotes great to take within the new year
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Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
You, Are, Amazing. I love how committed you are to your training and all your hard work definitley pays off.