This post originally appeared on Anna’s 1st blog, Annamotion.

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Introduction

I had the privilege of interviewing Nichole Kelly for our very 1st E.P.I.C. (Everyday People Inspiring Change) Story! I don’t think there’s anyone better to start off this monthly series than this sweet, authentic, inspiring young woman!

Nichole Kelly is truly a beautiful lady with a beautiful heart. She is currently studying Opera Performance with a minor in French at the University of Missouri–Kansas City. Nichole and I were elementary school friends and recently became connected again (I’m so glad we did!). I am constantly inspired by Nichole and the actions she’s taken for her story of growth. Almost daily I am encouraged by her positive and inspiring Facebook posts!

At this point of her life, she feels she has grown the most in the areas of mental, emotional, and physical. I am so excited to share a little bit of her inspiring story of growth with you today!

Check out Nichole’s EPIC Story!

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Becoming Aware

What happened in your life to cause you to take serious, intentional action for your journey of growth?

“Two years ago, on the day after Father’s Day, I found my dad on the floor after having a severe Ischemic stroke. This moment forever changed my life and the life of my family.

I knew that my family has struggled from all types of health problems, such as cancer, diabetes, depression, heart conditions (my dad also had a quadruple bypass surgery in 2010), and more. But this was the first time that I was face to face with an emergency situation. It jerked me into awareness of how quickly your health can falter and how seriously your life can change in relation to the choices you make.

In the years following this event, my family life has drastically changed. I had been eating badly for quite a while. I didn’t start eating fruits and vegetables until I studied abroad in France last Fall. When I was in France, I saw my friend and Beachbody coach had posted her transformation story, and this post said that it used to be a challenge for her to just go up a flight of stairs without getting winded. She overcame obstacles and is now a fit, inspiring, and motivating factor in many people’s lives.

Seeing this made me think that it was also possible for me to make the changes necessary to lead a healthier and happier lifestyle. Her belief in me gave me the courage to become a Beachbody coach and to embrace that that is something I want to do! I am fully committed now to help others and I truly believe that Beachbody has given me the platform through which I can touch the lives of others to make a positive impact.”

Overcoming Obstacles

What were some of the biggest obstacles you faced? How did you overcome them?

“I would say the biggest obstacles I faced were the limitations I had put on myself from the beginning.

I had never exercised regularly because I had asthma. It was uncomfortable to exercise for more than a few minutes. But exercising has actually strengthened my lungs and I am able to do more for a longer period of time.

Also, a lack of self confidence held me back from so many things. I was afraid of failing, and I didn’t even want to try because of what that would continue to do to my perception of myself.

Something that helped me gain confidence of myself was actually taking care of my mind, body, and soul. I started going to counseling, exercising, and reading at least 10 pages of a personal development book every day. These things helped to change the way I saw myself and raised my awareness of when I was “unknowingly” putting myself down.”

Pressing Forward

When were some of the hardest times to keep going? How did you push forward?

“There were a couple of weeks last semester when it was incredibly difficult for me to see the value in myself and to continue with all the habits I had adopted that were improving my life. During this time, I was dating a boy and we quickly broke up. But this transition left me feeling very unstable and led me to a long period of self reflection and evaluation that I’m still in.

This relationship was new territory for me and it brought to the front all of the feelings I had about my dad an the situation my family is in. This is when I went to a doctor who prescribed me anti depressants, which made me cry because “I didn’t think it was THAT bad!” I also began to see a counselor and, since then, I have been on a mission of self improvement and self acceptance.”

Finding Routine

Do you have a routine? If so, was it hard to find routine?

“Routine is the only way I survive. If I don’t make something a part of my daily routine, it won’t stick. It’s definitely been hard to create a routine, especially with a different schedule every semester and this new job. I may not be able to do things during the time that I’d like, but I am still finding the time every day to do the things I need to do.

Everyone will have a different routine and different times that they like to get things done. Do what works for you. I have a daily planner that I use because I need that sort of structure in my life. But for others, that kind of structure would kill them. Try new things and do what works best for you.”

Motivation

What are some of your biggest motivations today?

“My biggest motivations today are my coach, the accountability groups of which I am a part of, and also the dreams and goals that I have for myself. I truly want the best for my family and me, and I want to achieve these dreams in order to lead a life of which I can be proud, and one that not only benefits me, but those around me.

My coach is always there when I need advice or help, and she is always ready to help me come up with a solution or plan of action to get me where I want to be. One of my goals is to be that person for others. I want to inspire and help as many people as possible, just like my coach has been doing.

The friends I’ve made in these accountability groups have pushed me to do the best I can and have inspired me on days when I feel like doing nothing. Being a part of, and running, accountability groups has been the main motivating factor in my day to day life. They remind me of the small, daily steps I need to be taking in order to reach the life of my dreams.”

Advice

What advice would you give to someone who wants to improve, but just can’t seem to get going? Or doesn’t know where to start?

“The first thing I would suggest is to sit down and make a list of what your goals are (start small!) and identify WHY you want to reach those goals. Dig deep in your why. It’s extremely personal and unique to every person. Everyone has different reasons for why they want to improve their lives.

I would also suggest reading and listening to personal development materials. It is so helpful and is basically rewiring your brain to think more positively about yourself and life in general.

I’ve also read a lot of Brené Brown and watched her presentation of the power of vulnerability. I also listen to The Chalene Show podcasts and Brendon Burchard’s The Charged Life, which I think is a great place to start!”

(Note from Anna: If you’d like to hear more from Brené Brown on the topic of vulnerability, here’s a link to a book by her that goes more in depth: Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead)

Reaping the Benefits

What have been some of the most rewarding parts of your hard work?

“The most rewarding thing is that I can actually believe in myself, believe that I will be able to succeed at something, and achieve the life that I want. It is also so rewarding that I have the power (as does everyone) to inspire positive change in the lives of others. Seeing the positive ripple effect makes everything worth it!”

“Seeing the positive ripple effect makes everything worth it!”