Show day has passed, and prep is officially over! It feels incredible to say that out loud.
The past six months were filled with long days, physical strain, mental battles, and moments of deep reflection. But every challenge was overcome, step by step.
Like every athlete, emotions ran high. From check-ins to stage time, I experienced the full spectrum. Confidence, nerves, and everything in between. One of my favorite bodybuilders once told me, “If you’re nervous, it means you care.” That stuck with me. When the lights came on, I gave it everything I had.
The Moment on Stage
I would be lying if I said I wasn’t scared or that I walked in 110% certain of victory.
The truth is, no one controls the outcome. Standing among bigger competitors, I knew I’d have to bring not just my physique, but my heart. There were moments of doubt, especially when I was moved to last place. Not necessarily for lack of conditioning, but likely due to my weight, leg size, or simply status.
As many are starting to see in the bodybuilding industry, not every show feels fair. Sometimes, it seems that fame, coaching affiliations, or politics can play a role. For a moment, it made me question everything, my ability, my future, even whether I should continue competing, but that doubt didn’t last long because something unexpected happened.
People noticed me. Not for my placing, but for my presence. Competitors and spectators came up to me for photos, compliments, and shoutouts. Some told me that my posing inspired them. That moment hit me harder than any trophy ever could.
You can win medals, but when someone tells you, “You inspired me,” that’s when you realize this sport isn’t just about muscle. It’s about impact.
The Unexpected Lessons
While I recognize the areas I need to grow, mainly my legs, back, and chest, the real growth was internal.
- I learned to stop comparing: It’s easy to get caught up in comparison, especially when you’ve chosen a different path. I’ve decided to remain natural, honoring my faith and body by avoiding PEDs. This isn’t a judgment against others. Everyone has free will, but for me, it’s about integrity and stewardship.
- I learned the kind of coach I want to be: I want to push my athletes to give their all, but never tear them down. I witnessed a few coaches yelling or cussing at their athletes on show day, and I promised myself I’d never be that kind of coach. Being a coach isn’t about your athlete’s trophy. It’s about guiding them with empathy, structure, and respect because no one can control the outcome, but everyone can control their effort.
- I learned the kind of athlete I want to remain: I want to continue inspiring others to chase their goals, whether that’s stepping on stage or pursuing a dream that feels impossible. Fame doesn’t fulfill me, purpose does. If I can help even one person believe they can become more, that’s the real win.
What “Winning” Really Means
Yes, I wanted the trophy. Who doesn’t? But God had a better plan.
This experience taught me that “winning” isn’t about placement. It’s about perseverance. It’s about staying consistent, honoring God with the gifts He’s given me, and walking with humility regardless of outcome.
“Sometimes, it’s not about being or looking the best. It’s about remembering that you already are the best in God’s eyes.”
This weekend reminded me that God is always in control. I might not have received the hardware I wanted, but I received something eternal: purpose and perspective.
What’s Next?
You’re probably wondering what’s next in my bodybuilding journey. For now, I’ll be stepping away from the stage to focus on growth, literally and figuratively.
I plan to take the next 2–3 years to rebuild my physique, focus on lagging areas, and come back better than ever. My goal remains clear: earn my National Qualifier spot.
That doesn’t mean the grind stops. I’ll continue eating, training, and living with prep-level discipline, but my focus will shift toward helping others. Guiding athletes and lifestyle clients to build their strongest selves, inside and out, because whether your “stage” is fitness, business, or everyday life, remember this: You might not win the trophy, but you’ll always win growth.
