Dear People Who Don’t Understand Me,

Let’s make a deal: I’ll do my best not to refer to you as close-minded as long as you take the time to read and internalize my message.

For starters, I do not care if you do not agree with the way I choose to live my life.

Ido not work out every single day because I’m unhappy with the way that I look. In fact, I’m incredibly happy with the way that I look.

I work out because not too long ago, I feared looking in the mirror more than anything else. I work out because at one point in my life I cried every time I had to go bikini shopping. I love myself so much now, and I will not let you take that away from me. I work out because I used to be so unhappy. And then I discovered the euphoria I get from endorphins, and I refuse to go back to where I was. I work out because I love it and because I want to.

Public service announcement: I don’t need your approval or understanding.

Oh, and another thing.Please do not tell me to “stop doing more than is necessary.” I don’t want your mediocrity to poison my mind and trick me into thinking that what I do is “too much.” The truth is—maybe you don’t do enough. Maybe you’re so intimidated by my work ethic that you’re afraid that I make you look bad. I don’t know what your issue is, but I’ve decided to stop caring altogether.

Your opinions are important, don’t get me wrong. You have every right to express how you feel toward me, and I have every reason to respect you for it. But there are a lot of things in life that are important that I choose to pay no attention to. You, my not-so-friendly acquaintance, are one of those people that I will no longer be sparing attention for.

I will no longer take time out of my day to listen to your negativity, and I hope you understand. I am happy with the way that I live. I don’t criticize the way you live, so I can’t seem to figure out why you have the audacity to do so to me.

To the people who don’t understand me: regardless of your constant criticisms, I feel the need to tell you that—you and I? We’re not that different. We’re both afraid. The only difference is that I’m afraid of what I won’t accomplish and you’re terrified of what I will.

Xoxo.

Sincerely,

Fit Chicks Everywhere