physically , and the rewarding feeling of knowing your efforts paid off and how much your hard work reflects on your physique . This passion grew into a desire to start my fitness apparel line , Seven Sailors Apparel . The idea behind the brand is to inspire people to be the best and healthiest version of themselves , both physically and mentally . My first show was in 2017 ; I competed again in 2018 with a fractured wrist . Looking forward to competing again in 2020 , but
I placed 2nd in Novice and 6th in open , which was a massive win for me mentally and physically . After that show , I stumbled upon St . Finnikin , an artist who makes spiritual music . I listened to his music every day , and I reached out to him , letting him know how much his music resonated with me . We connected through messenger , and I shared my story , he encouraged me that things would be better , and he was right ! Fast forward to present day ; it ’ s been nine
the pandemic happened . I , like many others , felt lost and apprehensive about the future . I fell into a bit of a depression at that point again . I lost 20lbs of hard work , gyms had shut down , and I could barely pay bills due to work shortage from covid . Then when things opened back up , I was ready to train for the next show instead ; I dislocated my knee at work two months before the show , a minor roadblock that I was able to overcome . Two weeks after my 28th birthday , I learned that my stepdad had passed away . I faced many challenges in 2020 , but something seemed different from the previous years , and I felt stronger mentally , so I kept pushing . I had an opportunity to get coached by my idol and close friend , 3x Muscle Model World Champion and IFBB Pro Athlete AJ Ellison . months since I ’ ve had suicidal thoughts . I started journaling this year as part of my 2021 resolution , which has helped my anxiety . I truly believe fitness ; my family , St . Finnikin , and AJ saved my life . If there ’ s one takeaway I can give , you need to keep going and believe in yourself . Nothing is permanent , and you can change your circumstances even without prescribed medication . I ’ m excited to see what the future holds ; we ’ re all going through our own journey . Whether it is good or bad , you need to live for the journey ; it defines who we have become and reminds us that anything is possible with a bit of elbow grease .
@ devindoyerofficial
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