A Letter To My Younger Self

Dear 18 year old Lauren,

You’re the youngest person to qualify to Regionals out of the CrossFit Games Open and you will also be finishing up your Senior Year of High School. You will have many tough decisions to make this year but know that somehow your journey will lead you to be a Nike sponsored athlete, world traveler, and an 8 time CrossFit Games athlete at only 29 years old.

You may not fully grasp the magnitude of your potential and the extraordinary path that lies ahead, but trust me when I say that your determination and dedication will pave the way for great achievements.

Remember that the journey itself is as important as the destination!

As the youngest person to qualify for Regionals out of the CrossFit Games Open in 2012, you have already proven your exceptional talent and work ethic. But let me assure you, there is so much more in store for you. The decisions you face in the coming years may seem overwhelming, but remember that every choice you make, every step you take, will shape the trajectory of your future. Remember that the journey itself is as important as the destination.

At just 21 years old, you will come out with your own shoe with Nike, a testament to your unwavering commitment and relentless pursuit of excellence. The world will become your playground as you travel to places you've only dreamed of, representing not only yourself but also inspiring countless individuals along the way.

You will start your own brand called Grown Strong. This brand will inspire thousands of women to be strong! Not just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well. Your message of empowerment and resilience will touch the lives of many, creating a community of strong women who support and uplift each other.

And oh, the CrossFit Games — prepare yourself for the incredible journey that awaits you. The road will be filled with ups and downs, moments of triumph and moments of defeat, but each experience will fuel your growth and push you to reach new heights.

You will not only compete once but eight times in the CrossFit Games, a testament to your tenacity and resilience. Over the years, you will have many mental and physical challenges rehabbing your body that will test your patience. Have faith in those moments — they will define your future perseverance. No athlete knows what’s on the other side of significant injuries. Remember that setbacks are not permanent, and with the right mindset, you can turn them into opportunities for growth and success. You’ll return a better athlete, a better teammate, a better person.

Setbacks are not permanent!

There will be moments when you doubt yourself, doubting your abilities and considering giving up. I want you to know that these moments are normal and part of the journey. Take a deep breath, find the strength within you, and push through. Remember that you are capable of far more than you can imagine.

As you navigate the challenges and uncertainties that lie ahead, remember to stay true to yourself. Trust in your abilities, embrace the process, and never lose sight of the passion that fuels your fire. Surround yourself with a strong support system, both in the CrossFit community and in your personal life, as they will lift you up during the toughest of times. Remember that asking for help is a sign of strength, and that collaboration and encouragement from others can make a significant difference in your journey.

And along your journey, you will have the fortune of meeting someone who shares your passion for fitness and becomes an important part of your life. This person will become your partner, both in life and on the CrossFit stage. Together, you will form a team and compete alongside each other at the CrossFit Games leading you both to become the third fittest team on Earth and two years later you will get married.

Never forget the importance of balance. Prioritize self-care and recovery. CrossFit and your athletic pursuits will demand a lot from you, both physically and mentally. Cherish your relationships, nurture your mind and body, and find joy in every moment. Remember that success is not solely defined by accolades but by the impact you have on others and the growth you experience within yourself. Believe in yourself, Lauren.

Believe in your dreams and your ability to turn them into reality. You are capable of far more than you can imagine, and the journey ahead will be a testament to your unwavering spirit and determination. People will remind you to never look back — always look forward, in positivity and hopefulness. But let yourself look over your shoulder at that 18 year old girl who would one day change the world. And then, look ahead, at the next 18 year old girl who may, one day, do it again.

Stay fearless.
Stay relentless.
Stay Grown Strong.

With love and unwavering support
Your future self,
LF