HEALTH / Delayed love

When I started exercising at a gym many years ago, I fell into the common trap that many others do. I began trying protein shakes because I was thin and lean (or rather, skinny). Advertisements and the people around me convinced me that I couldn’t build a great body without supplements. While I did gain some muscle mass through weight training and basic protein supplements, the results were not as significant as I had hoped. To achieve the dramatic physique changes we often see, one typically needs “stronger” supplements. Unfortunately, these often contain harmful ingredients, and in some cases even life-threatening ones. It took me a while to realize that my body type has a natural limit for muscle gain. Eventually, I accepted this fact, and it changed my entire perspective on fitness and health.

When I quit taking those supplements, I went through some of the most challenging moments of my life. The difficulty stemmed from adjusting to a thinner physique, with less muscle mass and, according to some, a less attractive appearance. Who wants that? Who can endure such a change? It was a hard pill to swallow. It takes a lot of strength to face it. Ultimately, I emerged as the victor. I often considered returning to protein supplements to regain the muscle I had lost; the temptation was strong. However, I decided I wanted to be my authentic self, to live in the real world rather than a fabricated one that many choose to inhabit. That was when I discovered my true self. For the first time, I felt a genuine love for my natural self. I no longer had to worry about carrying protein powder to the gym, eating specific foods immediately after my workouts, or following strict sleep schedules. For the first time in my years of training, I felt free. Of course, I continued to work out and eat healthily, but I learned to love myself as I was. I continued to improve my body naturally, building a symmetrical, strong physique with muscles as large as my genetics allowed. I loved myself, even though it was a delayed love. But it was real love.

Have you ever considered whether you are living a genuine or a false life? Do you love yourself as you are, or do you constantly feel the need to hide behind a mask? I have been reflecting on this more in recent years, especially as discussions about bullying have gained prominence worldwide. While this isn’t a post aimed at that specific issue, it does lead me to a different point. How many people—both women and men—have you seen advocating for self-assertion or standing up for others who are bullied? I’ve witnessed many individuals encouraging those who are bullied to speak out and take pride in themselves. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that; in fact, it’s commendable, and I believe we should all support such movements. However, there is an irony in this situation. Many of the same individuals who champion anti-bullying initiatives are often trapped by their own insecurities and vanity. They may undergo multiple unnecessary cosmetic surgeries, refuse to leave their homes without layers of makeup, or resort to dangerous steroids and fat-burning substances in an effort to become something other than themselves. Wouldn’t it be better if they embraced and loved themselves first before advocating for others to accept their own insecurities and flaws?

At the same time, people commend the truly “brave” actions of some women who choose to post photos of themselves without any makeup. Unfortunately, in today’s society, what is considered normal has become abnormal and vice versa. Ideally, women would feel comfortable going out every day without heavy makeup that hides their natural beauty. However, the opposite is the case. Many women present different looks daily, and they receive praise when they appear without makeup. Phrases like “Wow! You are brave to show up without makeup!” are common. How can one truly advocate for self-acceptance and authenticity if they do not first embrace and love themselves?

If you learn to love yourself, heavy makeup becomes unnecessary. When you recognize your inner beauty and work on self-improvement, you realize that you don’t need fake eyelashes, constant lipstick, or heavy makeup.

It takes strength to love yourself truly and to look in the mirror and say, “I love you for who you are,” without relying on fancy clothes, heavy makeup, or artificial enhancements. On the other hand, light makeup that enhances your features can be beautiful. Just be aware of where to draw the line, both literally and metaphorically.

Every day, we witness people expressing love and sympathy for those with disabilities. They encourage individuals to embrace themselves and make the most of their lives, regardless of their challenges. However, these well-meaning individuals often struggle to accept their own minor flaws. Many resort to multiple cosmetic surgeries to achieve a flawless appearance, apply heavy makeup to feel confident, or, as previously mentioned, use steroids and other dangerous substances to seek validation from others, even if it means sacrificing their true selves.

Nowadays, it’s challenging to find a naturally built body. Many men and women whose physiques people admire in gyms, on TV, and in movies have achieved their looks through supplements and surgeries. The unfortunate part is that people often remain unaware of this. They assume the impressive bodies they see are entirely natural, mistakenly believing that only bodybuilders’ extreme physiques are enhanced. This perception couldn’t be further from the truth. I’m tired of seeing individuals constantly carrying protein shakes or other supplements in the gym and rushing to consume them right after their workouts. I was once in that position too, years ago, and I realize now that I was wrong. It has been over 30 years since then, and by now, we should all be aware of the potential risks associated with these substances. When I was younger, knowledge about supplements was limited. Today, we should clearly understand what is healthy and what isn’t. I’m also weary of hearing comments like, “Are you a trainer? Why aren’t you more muscular or pumped?” Sadly, many people do not realize that the numerous bodies we encounter, from commercials to movies and fashion events, are not always achieved naturally.

I want to ask all of you for a favor. Take a moment to reflect on the kind of life you want to live. Do you want a genuine life or a superficial one? Every day, we are surrounded by fake role models that many try to emulate. If you choose to pursue a real life, start taking steps toward that goal today. However, if you decide to embrace those fake role models, then you should refrain from complaining about the hypocrisy you see in the world. Your choice will impact every aspect of your life, including the body you wish to enjoy, the heavy makeup you want to use, and any plastic surgeries you might consider.

Everyone should have the freedom to pursue what brings them joy, as long as it doesn’t harm others. If you love a body enhanced by supplements and cosmetic surgeries, go for it. However, think twice before advocating for unconditional pride in your appearance, as this can lead to conflict. It’s essential to strike a balance between enhancing your appearance and maintaining good health, as some methods may harm your well-being. I decided long ago to improve my body through exercise and healthy eating, rather than relying on protein shakes. A natural approach worked better for me. Relying on protein shakes often required me to consume more protein than recommended to see results or seek out “stronger” options with questionable ingredients. That became an unhealthy dependency; I didn’t want to work out unless I had taken my protein shake. Even when using a pure protein source, I felt a nagging guilt, as if I was not doing the right thing. I worried that any health problems I could encounter could be blamed on the supplement, which didn’t seem logical. But it was the way I was thinking, and I didn’t want to feel that way. For many reasons, I chose a natural path, knowing I was making a healthier choice. If you enjoy using protein shakes, that’s fine. Protein is important for muscle development, and you can also obtain it from food. If you prefer protein powder, it’s crucial to know your limits to avoid potential health issues. Choose a protein powder that contains pure protein—nothing else—and remember that you can also get protein from real food.

It takes strength to love yourself and to be authentic, both on the inside and the outside. When you achieve this, you feel a sense of freedom, and that freedom radiates a magical power that influences everyone around you. This freedom can create miracles. It is never too late to embrace self-love, even if that love comes to you later in life.

Check out my article on supplements titled “Supplements & Traps,” and make great decisions!

Published: November 27th, 2023 | Last Edited: March 26th, 2026 | HEALTH | All Posts |