Confidence is key.

When looking up the definition of confidence I came across a few including ""the state of feeling certain about the truth of something""

""a feeling of self-assurance arising from one's appreciation of one's own abilities and qualities"".

Growing up I was surrounded by strong, beautiful women who instilled in me the importance of having self confidence at an early age.

Women are strong, unique, exquisite, beautiful creatures! Your self confidence can be viewed a certain way by people who may not be comfortable with themselves, however, don't dim your light for anyone.

When I finally got serious about my health and wellness journey I began to see the results I had been working my ass off towards.

People would see me and some would compliment me say I look great etc., some would give an evil eye, and say things like I love to show off my body, and etc. Men and women would do it, I would be so shocked! Then I thought, I have always been been confident, so don't get it twisted. You're just seeing it now because you're focused on my physical. But honey, my self confidence comes from within, its always been there and it will not be dimming for anyone!

I can't control how someone feels about themselves, that is an internal, individual process and I wish them the best on their self love journey. What I will continue to do is empower, inspire, and motivate people to become the best version of themselves on their health and wellness journey; that's what Soul Health Chronicles is all about!

This journey is mind over matter 100% of the ride.

I share this to encourage women to continue on the journey of becoming their best self, shine in your own light, its only right. A lot of times we second guess ourselves to make others comfortable, without even realizing it. You being exuberant with your self confidence can inspire someone else to be comfortable in their skin; flaws and all. People will talk. People will stare. People will downplay you and your progress. People will gossip. So what! Let them do that, that's none of your business. Continue to shine and do not dim your light for anyone.

On this health and wellness journey of mine, I get off track. There are times when the weather really affects my mood, making it hard for me to stick with my routine. There are times when I do not meal prep, so I go out to dinner a few times a week. There are times when I gain back the weight I worked hard to keep off. There are times when I have a neck roll that drives me crazy when taking a selfie. During all these times, my confidence remains high; because it's not based off what I look like to other people and how they see me; it's about what I feel about myself, and being comfortable in my skin. It's about not being too hard on myself but still pushing myself to be the best version of me, even when I don't feel like it!

I have worked hard to find inner peace, self love, confidence, love my entire self; flaws and all. That's why I only care about what I think of myself and how I view me, because I am truly my own competition. I hope on your journey that you see the only person you are in competition with is you, so why not spend your time, energy, and talents toward becoming the best version of yourself?

I encourage you to not dim your light for anyone, especially not for yourself in an effort to make others feel comfortable. If someone feels a certain way when you enter a room then that is okay, continue to be a beam of light.

As always, work on becoming the best version of yourself, you are your only competition!

Shawnte' Knox

Owner, Soul Health Chronicles

www.soulhealthchronicles.com