wellness & fitness
Getting stronger and showing up for myself
My wellness journey has been about much more than the number on the scale. In July 2025, my doctor looked over my blood work results and told me I was borderline pre-diabetic. That rocked me to my core. Even though I knew I had work to do, I didn't realize my health was taking that type of turn.
My doctor recommended that I consider medication to help get my levels into a better range, but I declined that option. Instead, I asked her to give me a few months to take the right steps with better nutrition and exercise. Later that week I hired a personal trainer. I knew I couldn't do what needed to be done on my own and I needed help from a professional.
Over the past year, with the help of my trainer, I have lost more than 40 pounds. But the biggest change has been getting stronger, building consistency, and learning to take better care of myself. Seeing my glutes, quads, arms, and back muscles tone up has me constantly saying, "Yes girl, yes!" I'm in love with my results.
When I first started working with my trainer I weighed 219 pounds. Seeing the progress I've made now has made every sacrifice worth it.
Over here, I share the real side of fitness and wellness: the gym days, cardio, recovery, laughs with my gym crew, the days when I need rest, and the choice to get back to it when I can. No perfect routines over here. Just me figuring out what works and continuing to show up.
These are a few of my fitness favorites that I personally use, enjoy, or have added to my routine. Some links are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
My Fitness Journey So Far
I sat down with my trainer, Myk Tea, to talk about what the first 10 months of my fitness journey had really looked like. Trust me, it was not always been easy, but the work doesn't lie.
We talked about getting started, showing up consistently, what had changed for me, and the work that happened behind the progress. We also talked about his journey and the role he has played in helping me get stronger, stay encouraged, and keep going.
It is an honest conversation about fitness, consistency, and in his words, "You can either find a way or find an excuse." I chose to find a way.
Recorded in May 2026 with Myk Tea.
Consistency can include rest.
I live with multiple sclerosis, and I know firsthand that some days look different than others. MS fatigue, a busy work schedule, and life in general can mean I need to slow down, rest, or adjust.
That does not mean I have to quit. It means I am learning to listen to my body and get back to my routine without beating myself up about it.
If you are trying to get stronger, improve your health, feel more confident, or just find your way back to taking care of yourself, I hope this space reminds you that you can start where you are and keep going from there.
Moving for something bigger.
Living with MS is part of my story, and supporting the MS community is important to me. Each year, I organize a Walk MS team and fundraise to support people affected by multiple sclerosis.
A quick note: I'm sharing my personal experience, not medical advice. Always talk with your healthcare provider about what is right for you.
Travel more, get stronger, and make time for the life you want.
Copyright © 2026 From Side Hustle to Success LLC - Demet Nicole. All Rights Reserved
