This is an uncharacteristic post, so perhaps you'll indulge me in a little background: Growing up, I was far from athletic and the majority of girls I knew were Asian, 5'2 and a size 00. I swear I had a minor identity crisis everytime we went shopping, haha. I justified my shape/size/frame through genetics and the need to be built a certain way to compete at a D1 level. After moving to LA& working in entertainment/fashion, it was hard not to be image conscious- I saw so many friends succumb to eating disorders, drugs, plastic surgery, etc. I think being a former athlete prevented me from going down that path but like every other girl, I began obsessing about weight. After many a crash diet, a dear friend gave me the Insanity program and promised results. I read a few reviews, watched some transformational videos and decided to buckle down and conquer it. I won't get into the road blocks, progress or my personal journey here, but 63 (actually ~70 days) later, its the shift in perspective I relish most. While my story is far from unique and my progress is not nearly what it could have been, I AM HAPPY. I love myself for having overcome crummy genetics to achieve a body I am proud of. The numbers on the scale no longer have a bearing on my conscious because for the first time ever... I feel incredible in my own skin. And while I'm anxious to continue progressing, it won't consume my life. I have no desire to be a bodybuilder or fitness model. This journey is simply one of finding happiness and balance within. My hope is for others, especially girls who are now subject to societal pressures at such an early age (ahem, @xshensterx and friends), to realize that the beauty is in self-discovery, not outward validation. "A goal is not always meant to be reached; it often serves simply as something to aim at." @emmulate(emily shen)