Dear Shelby From Shelby.

I recently wrote a letter to my 20 year old self..from my 35 year old self. It started as an internal project but after sitting with it for a little while I decided to share. So here it is -

Hey there, 20-year-old Shelby,

As you stand at the crossroads of youth and adulthood, there are a few things I'd like to share with you. As you embark on this journey, remember that life's challenges are opportunities in disguise.

First, never waver in your belief that fitness is a lifelong commitment. The allure of fad diets may come and go, but the foundation of consistent fitness will always carry you through. Your body is a testament to what it can achieve through dedication and time.

Next, cherish the moments you spend with good people. Time is your most precious currency, and investing it in those who lift you up will enrich your life beyond measure. These relationships will be your anchor during tough times, so make nurturing them a priority.

Don't let go of team sports. The camaraderie, the shared victories and defeats, they're building blocks of resilience and teamwork. They'll teach you that individual strength is important, but the collective effort can move mountains.

And those quads you often criticise? Embrace them! They'll be your secret weapon in conquering challenges. These very quads will power you through incredible feats that you can't even dream of right now. Remember, self-love and acceptance pave the way for self-discovery and growth. Plus, you’ll marry someone who appreciates the quads.

And one more thing, my young self, as you tread this path of growth, remember the importance of humility. In the realm of personal training and beyond, staying humble will be your guiding light. It's in acknowledging that there's always more to learn, more to understand, that you'll truly evolve. Humility will keep you open to new ideas, receptive to feedback, and compassionate towards others.

As you continue to embrace fitness, nurture relationships, and face challenges, let humility be your steadfast companion. It will be the cornerstone of your growth and the bridge that connects you to both the lessons of your past and the person you're yet to become.

As you journey through life, understand that adversity is inevitable. Life isn't always fair, and good people get hurt. But it's your response to these situations that defines you. Your resilience, empathy, and ability to rise above will be the hallmarks of your character.

So, dear 20-year-old self, stride confidently forward, armed with the wisdom of experience from the years ahead. Trust in the power of consistent effort, cherish your connections, embrace your strengths, and face challenges head-on. You've got this.

With warmth,
35 year old Shelby