We often hear recovery stories once the battle is over and in the best possible light. It’s inspiring to see strong men and women who have struggled with an eating disorder and have come through their experience with hope and insight. Still, while it’s phenomenal to see the changes that take place with a good program, it’s equally important to remember recovery doesn’t always mean everything is always perfect or that is comes without stumbling.

Undefeated MMA champ, Ronda Rousey, is an excellent example of this. She recently described her own struggles with an eating disorder. When she dropped out of high school to train full time, she began a pattern of binging, purging, and starving herself, using what she earned from her success for drugs and alcohol. She had to take a job bartending to support her habits while still working toward her goals in the MMA.

“The way I got here wasn’t perfect,” she says, “It was messy, and there was a lot (to overcome) along the way.”

Today, Rousey has found fighting to be a method for her to channel her energy and strength in a way that promotes health and that also brings respect for women in a largely male-dominated sport. Her honesty in sharing her less than perfect struggle, without apology or shame, is such a positive reminder. The journey we take toward recovery will not be ideal, but it is possible to take pride in whatever efforts it takes us to arrive at the successes we experience daily.

The messy, sometimes uncomfortable journey of recovery is beautiful in that it takes courage and persistence to change and heal. Even the best days in recovery will have unexpected moments and occasional setbacks. The ultimate mastery will become the ability to navigate the ebb and flow of life on one’s own terms and with growing confidence and serenity.

[cta]Keep the conversation going by commenting here, and then sharing your personal affirmations on Instagram using hashtag #NoFilter. Your affirmation may be what someone else is seeking as a guide in their own recovery![/cta]