Let’s say there are two paths. One is rocky and leads to the sea while the other is overgrown and leads to the forest. Which would you choose? For me, it is neither, because the descriptions are irrelevant limits and I am the type of person who despises boundaries. I would much rather forge my own path that may include the sea, the forest, and whatever else is out there.

This frame of mind has lead me to pursue a future career in the Navy as a nurse, my second degree black belt, and a number of academic achievements. People often compliment me on the “cool” or “unusual” things I do. However, I find it difficult to take these to heart as I am my own worst critic.

My best has never been enough. I can always run faster, lift more, and be better. One might think this is great, because I am always seeking to improve, but it comes with many cons.

Even if I spend all my free time at the gym, there will be physical boundaries that I cannot overcome. My body is not designed to run at a 5 minute mile or do twenty pull ups. I easily become consumed by jealousy when I see people who can.

Jealousy has become especially difficult to overcome since my social media feed only fuels the poison. I have to remind myself that what some can do I cannot, and this is where my hatred for boundaries has come. Even so, boundaries can be stretched.

The first step to stretching your boundaries is accepting who you are now.

This body you were given is what you were made for. Hating it is a negative motivation that will ultimately prevent you from seeing results.

The second step is understanding that there will be bad days.

What you can do with ease one day may leave you gasping the next. Some days your dream will slip right through your hands. Doubt will spiral you downward, but the hardships that come will pass.

The final step is overcoming your own mind.

Your mind is what creates your limits. Push them. Stretch them. Break them. Do not let anything hold you back especially yourself. After all, you are the one.