Everybody needs a fan, and the support and the encouragement. We're human beings; that is an essential part of the equation. When that fan is not there and when you're in a situation that triggers you on a historical level, you behave impulsively. You can destroy years worth of work professionally, personally, in a moment of being triggered by that.

I come from the school of being (stereotyped) since I was five years old. And I know that I should not be putting my personal issues on the table or letting them effect my work.

So when it comes down to it, a calorie is a calorie is a calorie: There is only one moral of the story: burn as many damn calories as possible whenever you work out.

Showing you pity doesn't do you any favors.

Ask yourself this: How much deprivation, how much self-effacement must you suffer through before you act on your desire for meaning and fulfillment? Before it’s your turn to thrive in your life, instead of barely surviving it? Some people live their dreams. Why not you?

You need to WANT to change. You need to be willing to do the work.

Don't blame anyone or anything for your situation or problems. When you do that, you are saying that you are powerless over your own life—which is utter crap. An empowering step to reclaiming your life is taking responsibility.