Have you ever felt like you don't quite belong anywhere? That feeling has followed me throughout my entire life as a Nuyorican with a distinctly Hispanic last name but without the language skills to match.

My journey with cultural identity began in childhood, where my Puerto Rican parents made the difficult choice not to teach me Spanish—a decision rooted in their desire to protect me from the discrimination they had faced. "We want to make sure that you do not face as much racism as we have," they told me when I asked why we didn't speak Spanish at home. This well-intentioned protection created a disconnect that followed me into adulthood.

School environments only magnified this sense of displacement. In the Bronx, kids called me "Blondie" because of my appearance, while in Westchester County, I faced different challenges, including being falsely accused of being an undercover narcotics officer by other students of color.

Now in my forties, I'm embarking on a deliberate journey to reclaim parts of my heritage through language immersion, committing to daily Spanish practice despite having tried and failed before. This path has led me to three powerful questions that might help you explore your own identity - tune in for more.

What parts of your identity are you reconnecting with?

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Instagram: www.instagram.com/tianasmindandmoves

Website: unbreakablemindandbody.com

Email: info@unbreakablemb.com

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https://tiana-gonzalez.mykajabi.com/likeyoumeanit

Disclaimer: This show is for education and entertainment purposes only. This is not intended as a replacement for therapy. Please seek out the help of a professional to assist you with your specific situation.

In this vulnerable episode, I share a recent brand photoshoot experience that had me battling waves of insecurity despite years of camera experience. Despite taking over 1,000 photos, my inner perfectionist—formed through years as a dancer and bodybuilder—kept finding flaws. The mantra that pulled me through? "I am enough and what I'm doing is important."

This triggered memories of perhaps my greatest personal challenge: after earning my IFBB Pro card in 2010, I gained over 50 pounds within months. Gym sessions became exercises in humiliation. There were days the physical pain kept me bedridden, and I questioned if I'd ever feel comfortable in my own skin again.

Looking at my recent photos against the backdrop of that difficult chapter reveals an important truth: readiness is largely a myth. Had I waited to feel completely confident before this photoshoot, an important project would remain just an idea.

Growth happens when we step into discomfort despite our insecurities. We're never going to feel 100% ready for the things—but that's precisely why we must begin anyway. What dream are you postponing until you feel ready?

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Connect with Me

Instagram: www.instagram.com/tianasmindandmoves

Website: unbreakablemindandbody.com

Email: info@unbreakablemb.com

Download your Free 5-Min Pre-Workout Guide:

https://tiana-gonzalez.mykajabi.com/likeyoumeanit

Disclaimer: This show is for education and entertainment purposes only. This is not intended as a replacement for therapy. Please seek out the help of a professional to assist you with your specific situation.

"Well, what about me?" These four simple words transformed my understanding of boundaries and self-care. What initially shocked me—his casual request for coffee when supplies were low—ultimately gave me permission to prioritize my own needs without guilt.

The beauty of this lesson was its unexpectedness. While our relationship didn't last, his natural ability to advocate for himself showed me what healthy boundary-setting looks like. During the isolation of lockdown, I had time to reflect on this interaction. Where was I making unnecessary sacrifices? With family, friends, and especially clients, I needed to learn to say "this is what works for me" without apologizing for having limits.

The truth is powerfully simple: you cannot pour from an empty cup. When we fail to maintain boundaries, we end up resentful. The responsibility falls on us to clearly articulate our needs and limits, especially with those closest to us who might take our availability for granted.

What I've learned is that boundaries and kindness can coexist beautifully. You can be firm without being harsh. You can say "that doesn't work for me" while still maintaining peaceful relationships.

The next time you feel drained or resentful, look inward and ask where you need to take responsibility for your boundaries. Because ultimately, if you don't advocate for your needs, who will?

Send us a text

Connect with Me

Instagram: www.instagram.com/tianasmindandmoves

Website: unbreakablemindandbody.com

Email: info@unbreakablemb.com

Download your Free 5-Min Pre-Workout Guide:

https://tiana-gonzalez.mykajabi.com/likeyoumeanit

Disclaimer: This show is for education and entertainment purposes only. This is not intended as a replacement for therapy. Please seek out the help of a professional to assist you with your specific situation.