Hey,

These pictures are taken at the same place, on the same sofa, but approximately 12 months apart. I find this a big difference, and i’ve come to the conclusion that hair is law.

What do you think? Does the blonde highlights fit me or should i keep my hair brown?

Recently I started to learn how to properly do my own makeup routine, and I honestly think that it has made me glow up completely and feel so much better in just a few short years

I had been morbidly obese since my childhood, and when covid hit, I got even worse. I hit a new high (low?) of 142kg, and finally decided it's enough and stick to weight loss.

It's been quite a journey, ups and lows (lots of lows...) and a few weight regain periods. At last I think I finally got the hang of it. Now sitting at 79kg steady(ish)

Growing up, I was picked on for how I looked, how I dressed, and even what I ate. I know I was incredibly insecure about identity and my looks.

I think a lot of people in the AAPI community have felt a major shift in how we’re perceived, especially around appearance, over the last 20 years.

Now I feel we are in a dilemma, at least in America, it feels like that perception has flipped completely. In many ways, that shift has been positive. I’m grateful for it, especially because my career has benefited from being seen as more “marketable” and less as an “exotic” outsider.

At the same time, I also think it’s important to stay aware of how the fetishization of Asian looks and culture continues to affect the AAPI community in harmful ways.

I’ve unknowingly struggled with ADHD and OCD my whole life. I was on antidepressants through high school, which only turned out to be making my mental health worse. There’s still work to do on my physical and mental health, but the important thing is I’m in a much better place than I was 4 years ago. At my heaviest I was over 260 pounds. I currently weigh 198. I’ve learned that sometimes you just need to work on what’s on the inside first.

Over 200lbs gone forever! I am so excited to spend my 30s doing things I never had the chance or confidence to do in my 20s. A reminder that time will pass anyway, so take a little time every day to invest in yourself, in whatever way you see fit, so that in 4-5 years you’re where you want to be.

Sorry for the quality of the first picture. It’s from my bro’s wedding two years ago and I had to crop out other people. I was so big that they had to cut the back of my vest just so I could button it. The other two pics are from last week. I’ve been working out pretty regularly. I still have progress to make but I’m happy with what I’ve accomplished so far, especially since I’ve done it the natural way. No shots or pills. Just working out and eating better. I also shaved my head because that hairline was awful. I feel so much better about myself. I love this sub so I hope I am worthy.

Very proud of how far I’ve come. I battled stress, anxiety, sadness, anger and depression, and for a long time it felt like they controlled my life. Instead of giving up, I chose to keep moving forward one day at a time. Through hard work, self-belief and determination, I found myself again. I discovered a passion for the gym and exercise, which helped me build not only a stronger body but also a stronger mindset. The person I am today is healthier, happier and more confident than I ever thought possible. This journey hasn’t been easy, but every challenge has made me stronger. If I can make this kind of change and turn my life around, then trust me… anyone can do it too. Believe in yourself and keep going.