I’ve always thought of myself as the kind of person who is pretty good at a lot of things but not REALLY good at any one thing. A jack of all trades and master of none, so to speak.
I can figure out how to tweak the blog layout, but I’m not a programmer.
I can install a backsplash, but I’m not a tiler.
I can run a half marathon, but I’m not very fast.
In 2013, I got tired of not being happy and not feeling like I was REALLY good at anything. The relationship I was in wasn’t making me happy, and I wasn’t happy with my body. I wanted to look fit like Amanda Latona and Erin Stern, not just skinny, and being a runner who dabbled in the occasional HIIT workout wasn’t cutting it.
So, I broke up with my boyfriend and decided to start lifting weights.
Results came as the weeks went by, and I started to think about entering a bikini competition. But the thought of that was really scary – it’s risky to dream big.
What if you fail?
What if everyone laughs at you?
Despite those fears, I kept lifting, I kept seeing results, and I began to tell everyone I could that I was going to compete in a bikini competition. The more people who knew about it, the more accountability I had to press on.
And you know what? Instead of laughing at me and doubting me, my friends and family were actually rooting for me instead! It felt great. I won that first competition, and competed at Nationals a few months later. I switched from bikini to the figure division, even though it made dating difficult because it involves more muscle. I won my first figure competition. A few months later, I became a professional figure athlete.
My first competition in 2014 (bikini) > Nationals in 2014 (bikini) > Jr. Nationals in 2015 (figure)
I’m not scared to dream big anymore.
What’s your biggest dream? Was it scary to commit to it at first like it was for me when I started bodybuilding?
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Peachy @ The Peach Kitchen says
WOW! Congratulations! We really mustn’t be scared of dreaming big.
Shannon Gurnee says
Your daughter is so gorgeous! You must be so proud of her! 🙂
Jason Young says
Setting goals in life is one of the most important things you can do to succeed. I always believe that you need to set your goals just a little bit higher than what you can actually reach.
Melissa says
Girl your killing it!!! You did amazing. You reached for your goals and I think you blew those goals out of the water. Great job!
I can’t wait to see this film too!
Dhemz Apdian - Dias says
Wow, you look fabulously stunning! Way to go. Those are awesome achievements for sure.
Tracey says
What a transformation. I got goosebumps reading this. You are seriously an inspiration. Thank you for this post, seriously!!
HilLesha says
The truth is that all of us can be really, really good at something, but many people who too scared to dream big since they feel like that’s a risk of failure. I’m a “Jane of All Trades”, but I have always wanted to be an archaeologist. It’s never too late to dream or accomplish my dream someday. 🙂
Mykidsguide says
You look gorgeous. Good for you for dreaming big and going for it.
Tami says
I love that you’ve went after something so big! I have a dream I am working on achieving. It scares me at time
Eileen Kelly says
Wow – that is amazing – you are an inspiration
Amber NElson says
My biggest goal is to build my business so I can quit doing what I currently do now at my other job.
Toughcookiemommy says
This is such a great message. My biggest dream is to purchase our second home on our own instead of with family like we did with the first one. We are working towards accomplishing that goal as we speak.
Chanelle says
That’s an awesome goal! Good luck to you as you reach it. 🙂
Susan Quackenbush says
Oh my, what an incredible story! I commend you for your commitment, you are truly inspiring! I wish you the absolute best in life and hope you see success in your endeavors!
Chanelle says
Thanks so much, I appreciate the kind words! Thanks for reading 🙂
Beth@FrugalFroggie says
I am looking forward to getting my life organized to I can make my dreams a reality.
Kristin says
What an incredible goal you have achieved! Your hard work is evident!
Travel Blogger says
That is so impressive. Congratulations on your success, but even more – chasing your goals.
Angie Scheie says
Wow, super impressive!! You look amazing, and represent a whole lot of hard work in getting to your dreams. Very inspirational!
Jeanine says
Congrats dealing with fears can be very hard. I know I’m still not there yet! But I love hearing success stories.
Claudette says
I really loved this post as you addressed a personal issue for many – self confidence. Thanks for this!
Claudia Krusch says
Congrats on dealing with your fears and being so successful! You look amazing!!!!!!
Heidi Gray says
Congrats on overcoming your fears and being so successful!
Margarita Ibbott says
I was at Blogger Bash this summer and we were introduced to the entire cast. Did you know the little red-headed girl actually has red hair in real life? She was adorable. Can’t wait for the movie.
Chanelle says
I didn’t know that! She’s so lovely!
melandria romero says
what a great body and i admire your determination and will power.
Ana De- Jesus says
Well done on achieving your dream keep going you can do it!
Rachel Mouton says
I love big dreams and you are beautiful!
Shaney Vijendranath says
I used to be scared too. I thought I would never make my dreams come true but now I’m living it! My goal is to just grow my blog and my dream is to be on a magazine cover.
Lexie Lane says
You had an awesome body. I Can’t believe that even a girl could achieve this kind of body. I’m happy for you, continue on what you are started to meet you goals.
Sabrina @ Dinner, then Dessert says
You’ve got to dare to reach for your goals! You never know what you can accomplish if you don’t take the first step!
Sarh S says
What an amazing dream to accomplish and in just a short period of time. I can only imagine the amount of time and hard work you’ve put into your dream. I hope to get in better shape now that my youngest child is in school and I’ll have time for the gym. I just want to tone for now. Congratulations on your wonderful achievement!
victoria says
It looks amazing to achieve this dream. and it looks really hard but still believe in your self
Kristi @ Homestead Wishing says
It is scary to commit to a dream at first, but you just have to keep going, and believe in yourself! I am so happy for you!
Lily Kwan says
Great job, never stop following your dreams!
LauraFunk says
You look fantastic, way to dream big and also I love this season for those Charlie Brown specials!
Chelsie says
What an inspiring story! My dream is to continue to be a full time blogger and make a tidy profit off of it so I never have to work in the corporate world again! I can’t wait to see the new Charlie Brown movie; I just watched A Charlie Brown Christmas today to get in the holiday spirit!
Chanelle says
Great goal! I left my career this summer to be a full-time blogger. Scary, but good.
Bonnie @wemake7 says
I guess I never really have had a dream before. I do hope that my husbands and I’s business picks up and becomes successful.
Chanelle says
Love it!!!! Keep dreaming big and chasing your limits down. 🙂
Richard Hicks says
Nothing wrong with pursuing your dreams. From the looks of you, you are pretty darn close. So many women would die for your figure!
Travel Quest says
Never stop dreaming and partner it with hard work. My mom always tell that to me. She said to pain no gain I guess this applicable not only for someone who wants to lose weight. But also so somebody who really want to succeed in their chosen career.
Emily Smith says
Wow, what an accomplishment, several times over! Congratulations on making your dreams come true! It can be overwhelming or scary to pursue a dream, but it’s so worth it. I’m on a big adventure into making one of my dreams a reality, wish me luck 😉
Chanelle says
What a cliffhanger! I’m interested in what your dream is. 🙂
Chelley @ A is For Adelaide says
Dreams are just platforms on which we build realities, love!!! You are a building machine (literally). Keep dreaming!
Mimi "MimiCuteLips" Green says
Congrats, that’s pretty bad A. I love to see folks step outside of their box.
Natasha says
Inspiring story. Congratulations! I loved how you shared your personal story. Motivating
mburbage says
Wow! That’s a lot of work and dedication! I always teach my kids to dream big! nothing is stopping them
Sicorra@NotNowMomsBusy says
You look amazing! Good for you for making such big changes and for doing the hard work to achieve that amazing body of yours.
Toni | BoulderLocavore says
What an inspiring post! Congratulations on your drams and I love how you tied this into the Peanuts!
Julie @ Running in a Skirt says
Gorgeous girl!! You have a lot to be proud of! Dreaming big gets you so far!
dana vento says
Congratulations on all you have accomplished! What dedication
Marielle Altenor says
You look great wow! That awesome that you were able to put your fears and doubt aside and go after your dreams! Can’t wait to see that Peanuts movie, saw the trailer and it looks like loads of fun!
tara pittman says
That is awesome that you are doing your dream. How many hours a day do you lift weights?
Chanelle says
I try to go 4-5 days a week, and I’m usually at the gym for an 1 to 1.5 hours. For someone who doesn’t compete, I think 30 minutes 3-4 days a week is great!
Shell says
You look amazing! It is scary to go for your dreams. I struggle with it.
Jonathan Key says
Congratulations in achieving your goals and all your success! These kind of stories are so inspiring to me when I see people following their dreams.
Shaylee says
Wow good for you!! I love hearing people’s stories about how they made their dreams come true. It looks like this took a lot of hard work and determination and it certainly paid off!
Erika says
Wow, what a great accomplishment! You should be really proud!
Michelle says
i’m currently living out my big dream. i moved out to the los angeles area to pursue an acting career. it can be scary at times but i think living a life where you don’t follow your dreams is even scarier.
Chanelle says
Wow! That took some guts. Good luck to you!
Saidah Washington says
You look amazing and I’m so glad that your life change for the better because of the decisions you’ve made.
Shernell says
Wow,you look amazing. I just started my out fitness journey and it isn’t easy.
Cathi @ Simple Sojourns says
Wow Chanelle! Besides being beautiful you are awesome! That is one heck of a goal to set. I’d wager not many people can actually attain it. You did it! Kudos to you and all that you do with your profession in the future!
Ashley Gill says
Well done on reaching your dream and making it come true! I struggle with my dreams every day but I haven’t given up. My children and I are very excited to see the Peanuts Movie this weekend!
Maria says
All I can say is wow! Kudos for you for reaching your goals!
Joyce Brewer (@MommyTalkShow) says
Your hard work paid off. I’m working on getting motivated enough to do a 5K. I’ll probably walk it but at least I’ll finish.
Keikilani says
I love your story! My husband and I are dreaming big together right now about opening our own businesses. It is so exciting and inspiring.
Rebecca says
Good for you! You are such an inspiration–following your dreams!
Autumn @Mamachallenge says
Way to go with following your dreams! My family is loking forward to watching this movie!
Crystal Lopez says
It is great to hear that you keep pushing toward what you want for yourself. Amazing pictures and amazing results!
Cheryl K says
My niece started doing this exact same thing in 2014! She too, had never done anything like this, she won her very first competition and hasn’t stopped since! You and she look amazing! Keep up the awesome hard work! You truly are an inspiration!
Amanda || Growing Up Madison says
I went to the screening over the weekend and it was such a cute movie. I think I’ll be getting it when it comes out on DVD and I’m glad you followed your dream. You look amazing!
Kristin says
You are amazing! So proud of a strong woman inside and out. You found the power to do it and Did it Whoop whoop!
Yolanda @ Seeing It Their Way says
Wow what an inspiring post. A lot of people dream big but don’t go after there dreams. You look amazing!
Carmen Perez (listen2mama) says
My goodness, you look amazing! Keep up the fantastic work. I am dying to see the new Peanuts movie, it looks so adorable, can’t wait to take my daughter.
Ourfamilyworld says
You look amazing! I never tried working out in hotels when I’m on vacation. I do a lot of walking instead.
Mykidsguide says
You are such an inspiration and you look amazing. I love Charlie Brown and I’m looking forward to seeing this movie.
Jasmine Watts says
You have an amazing body!! Keep moving on this path and I’m sure you will achieve all your goals!!
Chloe Marchant says
This is so true. I feel anyone can do or be anyone they want to be my dreaming big! “Shoot for the moon, if you miss you’ll land among the stars.”
victoria says
Wow you had a good body. Congrats to your Success keep it up the good job
Carol Bryant says
WOW you are an inspiration and way to go on your goals – you look fantastic. I cant wait to see the Peanuts movie.
Janis @MommyBlogExpert says
Chanelle, you are ripped. You’ve obviously worked very hard to physically get to the condition you are in now. Thanks for being an inspiration to those of us who try to go to the gym 3 times per week.
rika says
You have an amazing body and beautiful mind 😉 I just watched The Peanut Movie last week and my son loved it
Vera Sweeney says
You look amazing!!! Congrats on your success it is amazing to see your dreams come through. when you dream big.
Pam says
You certainly are amazing with your dedication and commitment. You must feel so healthy. An inspiration for sure for following your dreams.
I can’t wait to see the new Peanuts movie. I have heard nothing but good things
Nikki says
What a nice body you had, continue on what you are started, dream big and for sure you will achieve your goals.
Jessica Harlow says
I think it’s amazing that you were on a personal mission to dream big and have achieved some of your goals. It is scary sometimes and requires us to make some tough choices, but the results can be incredible!
Annie M says
You go girl! Bodybuilding’s not my thing, but being the best occupational therapist I can be for my patients is my big goal 🙂
ricci says
I can’t wait to se the new Peanuts movie, it looks adorable!! Also- good for you for going for your dream! You look amazing and as long as you feel amazing that’s all that matters!!
Stacie says
Good for you for following your dreams. More people should. I watched the Peanuts growing up and I’m glad they are still around for my kids to enjoy. I am looking forward to this movie.
Kristen says
I love this post!!!!! It is so important to follow YOUR dreams!!!
Heather Pfingsten says
Thank you for sharing your journey. This is something that I am still working on as I am still in the “scared” category. I’m a work in progress and will continue to make waves and try. Just like Charlie Brown … never give up … keep moving forward. Dream!
Cindy (Prime Beauty) says
I can relate because I have been afraid of change in the past. I’ve found just jumping in is best for me.
Chasing Joy says
You look amazing and have to be so proud of yourself. I have set some big dreams for myself recently . It is scary but I know it will be worth it.
Brandy says
This is fantastic! I love watching you over the years and this is such a great message to send out to young girls. I love your courage and strength! Keep on moving forward!
Felicia says
I am so proud of you and how you have followed your dreams! I feel like I have watched you grow up over the years via your mom’s blog. The movie sounds super sweet!
Chanelle says
Awwww that’s so nice to hear! Thanks for following us through the years.
Bri says
My biggest dream is moving to Japan for 25 years or more. I am taking daily steps to make this dream a reality.
Chanelle says
That is fantastic! I visited Kyoto and Tokyo in 2014 and it was amazing.
gingermommyrants says
It is so important to follow your dreams. You never know how much you can achieve if you do not take a leap and try.
Ann Bacciaglia says
You look amazing. It must have been so much hard work to get to look like that. You must be so proud of yourself. I have always taught my kids to dream big and go for it.
Rosey says
I’m excited about the enw Peanuts movie. And you look amazing. I like that you made changes when changes were due and you ended up happier in the long run.
Marcie W. says
As a gym rat that is content with basic workouts and occasional junk food parties, I totally admire the self control and dedication involved with bodybuilding. I am also a firm believer that any dream is within reach with the right amount of hard work.
Amanda says
Wow- you are an inspiration! Great work and great job working towards your dreams!
Danielle says
Go girl! What an amazing accomplishment you achieved. I have so many different things I want to accomplish and there’s always something holding me back – me. I need more accountability for myself.
Amber NElson says
Wow, that takes a lot of dedication and motivation. Good for you!
Stephanie says
Wow! What an accomplishment! Congrats. Thanks for sharing your “dream big” goals and your story of achieving them. So exciting.
Aimee Smith says
Congratulations! Leaping for those dreams is so scary! My dream is to be a mama and it was scary to really take that leap of faith to have my babies!
Chanelle says
I bet it was! I’m happy your dream came true. 🙂
Chubskulit Rose says
There’s nothing wrong to dream big, I know that when you put your mind and effort into it, you can achieve just about anything. You look great!
April G says
Wow! Gorgeous. I just met someone who was a professional figure model and she was ashamed. I’m not sure why, but I was wildly impressed. Go you!
Chanelle says
I think I might understand how she felt – when you tell people about the bikinis and heels, they leap to conclusions sometimes. Thanks for the nice words!
Rebecca Bryant says
My biggest dream was to be a mom. It was terrifying as I have serious health issues that could take me from my son at any time but I try not to let the fear overtake me and just live in the moment. Being a mom is scary in itself but I wouldn’t trade one sleepless night or tantrum for anything.
Milena says
I don’t think I’ve committed to my big dream yet. I’m trying to get brave!
Kelly Hutchinson says
For so many years, I was afraid to dream big. I applaud you for doing it at your age. I finally took the plunge and started my blog at age 52!
Christine Luken says
Wow, you look fabulous! Keep chasing those dreams! ?
Megan Elford says
You’ve worked so hard for your dream, even when you thought you may not have support. That’s amazing! Your drive and perseverance is a wonderful inspiration!
Sarah Bailey says
Having a big dream is so important I think, for me it might seem little but I want to try and enjoy every moment and live life as best as I can. x
Tiffany (NatureMom) says
One of the happiest times in my life was when I was weight lifting several times a week! I need badly to get back into it!
Jenn says
What an amazing accomplishment!! That is great!!! I am scared to dream big! Hopefully one day I can do it!
Mama to 5 BLessings says
It is great to have big dreams. Definitely motivates one to reach for the starts.
Lady Lilith says
Thanks for sharing. The bigger you dream, the more you will accomplish.
Kristi says
It’s always great to see a dream or achievement recognized and become a reality and your photos are proof of that. I am excited for the new Peanuts movie and can’t wait to take the kids to see it.
Catherine S says
You look amazing and your hard work has paid off. My dream is to start bowling in larger tournaments.
andi says
you are awesome! I want to look just like you when I grow up (and I am trying to lose weight, by the way 😀 )
Chanelle says
Good luck on your weight loss journey! You can always stop by here for workouts 🙂
Meagan Paullin says
Holy smokes – you look amazing!! I have a friend who travels and does these competitions, and I know how much work it takes to prepare, so huge virtual high five!!
At the moment, my big dream is to get my blog/business back on track. A year and a half ago I was making a six figure income. This year I got sick with some major health problems – lost over 50 pounds {not on purpose} – lost my energy, my motivation, spend time in the hospital. But, I’m mostly better now, and ready to kick things back into gear even bigger than before!! 🙂
Chanelle says
Wow, that’s a big change in a year and a half. Best of luck to you as you get to where you want to be!
Jenna Wood says
I think learning to be myself in all areas of life was very scary as I was always a social introvert who was bullied and singled out. Once I learned to value the right opinions and words, my whole life turned around. We can’t wait for Charlie Brown!
Chanelle says
Great point. I heard a quote recently that was something like, “No one can make you feel worthless without your consent.” 🙂
Paula H says
You are truly an inspiration! Nothing wrong with dreaming big. I can’t believe Charlie Brown and snoopy are coming to the big screen!! OMG!
Debra says
Wow, you are amazing. You look so beautiful and even more so for following your dreams! I can’t wait to take my kids to see the new Peanuts movie, Snoopy and the gang have had a soft spot in my heart since I was a little girl!
Elizabeth O. says
Your body is super amazing! I think it’s great that you decided to change your lifestyle, and the results are making you happy! That’s the best part of change. I also cannot wait for this movie! I love peanuts and I think it’s going to be awesome!
Jennifer Williams says
I had two big dreams – to have a family and to go to college. Quitting my job as a single mom (they would not work with school hours) and taking on two jobs to work my way through college was terrifying but made it through with no regrets! I can not wait for this movie – I am a huge Peanuts fan!
Chanelle says
That is an amazing accomplishment!
Tina @ My Highest Self says
Oh wow, you look fantastic, congrats on your accomplishments! I’m working on making my dreams a reality this year too, wish me luck 🙂
Mama to 5 BLessings says
We cannot wait to see this movie, looks so cute. We will probably take the kids to see it at the drive in this Friday.
Jeanette says
You do SUCH an amazing job. You keep me motivated to keep trying. I exercise in the gym twice to three times a week, but only for a half hour (I have only a half hour before I pick up the kiddo from school.) I will get in better shape one day at a time. Keep your motivation going girl you are doing great!
Bim says
You are doing such an awesome job. I hope that somewhere out there, your boyfriend sees this and kicks himself squarely in the butt. You are so strong.
Jennifer says
Keep following your dream. You’re doing an awesome job!
lisa says
Way to go after your dreams! You look amazing and you are very inspiring!!
Pam says
You certainly did dream big! Way to go on following your dreams! You’re so inspiring.
Stacie @ Divine Lifestyle says
You are amazing Chanelle. I love that you followed your dream, and I love how you’re going after it so hard. Also, you are absolutely beautiful!
Lois Alter Mark says
OMG You are amazing and so inspiring! You keep dreaming big – you can definitely accomplish anything!
Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
That’s what I tell my kids – always dream big and most importantly, never stop!!
Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
Chanelle, you are amazing. You totally rock the bikini competitions! Keep up the good work.