Fitness changed my body and my identity

This morning, as I was picking up anchovies from the hotel buffet, a man stopped me: "You have an amazing body, sir." In the past 2 years, strangers have complimented my physique almost every day. I grew up tiny. Until I turned 17, adults called me "Madam," and kids bullied me for my noodly arms. When I moved to Bali in 2018, I started surfing and did a bit of calisthenics because everybody is topless and sexy. Getting in shape slowly transformed me: In 2021, I started sleeping properly. In 2023, I started eating healthy. In 2025, I started lifting and running. I became a different person: - I never go to bed past 10 pm - I stopped smoking and drinking - I like what I see in the mirror - I get deep work done more easily - I receive compliments from strangers - I pick the healthiest option on the menu - I don't need motivation to go to the gym; I'm pulled towards it Fitness did not just impact my body, but also my identity. Muscles are the tip of the iceberg. Move your body.