Again much like myself Stormdragon.
This goes back to when I started weight lifting. I need that to help with stress and anger issues as well as insecurity issues. My hair was thinning (dam heredity
), I had put on some weight (165 to 193 lbs in just over a year), I had some eye issues that after a surgery required me to wear glasses, and of course issues if I could protect myself and others. I felt weak and timid around others and I did not put much faith in myself.
Weight lifting did wonders for me and I not only lost the weight but I gain more muscle and became very fit. I felt better about myself and how I looked and it gave me confidence to show that to others. I had PRK eye surgery and no longer needed glasses. I cut my hair shorter and though I was thin it wasn't too bad. Then I got into martial arts and it help further with stress and anger issues and gave me more balance. I lost some muscle and strength but in turn I gained speed and endurance plus skills and techniques. I opted to shave my head because I didn't care what people thought and if they didn't like it then I didn't have a problem correcting them.
Self defense was never an issue and still isn't though it is a bonus. Competing wasn't an issue and still isn't though it is a bonus as well. But better myself and feeling more confident, plus dealing with stress and anger issues were the most important things and some of the biggest reasons I continue. Not only that I don't like quiting and I've made some great friends through it.
When you feel confident on the inside you portray it on the outside. Sure there are still some fears and insecurities but knowing they are there and that I'm doing something to help dealing with them, that is the most important thing. Fear is healthy and facing it makes you stronger.
