So it's all over....

My weekend in Pasadena was a learning experience. All of the shows are but this one in particular. I always want to come away from a show feeling that I got better. I feel that I did. I wanted to feel that "contest prep" wasn't about cardio and starving myself, but about improving yourself day by day to peak for a show. I feel I did. I didn't want to shut my friends out and spend my days making meals and at the gym. I wanted to make sure that even though competing became a top priority, that I still had time for work, friends and my boyfriend. I feel I did.
So even though I didn't win the show I feel good about my accomplishments and even if no one else may see all the potential I have. I do.
I love this sport but there is a side of it that will take over the narrow minded so much that winning becomes the only thing that matters. This may be seen as dedication but what happens when the opinion of the judges changes? Is it because you didn't work hard enough, or sacrifice enough? No. The only person who knows that is yourself. So if you are happy with the package you bring to the show then no matter where you place you know that there will be more to come.I took a different approach to this show and went into it as preparation for the year not just the show. I think I am going to hold off competing until next year and focus on changes that need to be made and building my PT and Nutritional business. I will start to log some off-season diet ideas and workouts so keep checking back for those. :) -V