The why in bodybuilding and its importance.

Why It’s OK Not to Win

The why in bodybuilding and its importance. — and Why the Journey Matters I started bodybuilding in 2009. Little did I know what was in store for me. Since then, I’ve stepped on stage 20+ times, learned countless lessons that I have been able to apply to life outside of bodybuilding, and met people who changed my life. It took me 9 years to earn my pro card — nine years of working hard, failing, learning, and getting right back up. My why has carried me far beyond I could have ever imagined. This will be a long post. However, I hope this post can give you some clearance on what the bigger picture for me is and why I do it.

Maybe this post can give you some clearance, some hope, some guidance, and some reassurance.

And that’s exactly why I want to share this:

You Don’t Have to Win to Be Great

Not placing, missing the mark, or walking off stage without a trophy doesn’t define you. Just showing up does to be honest. The reason I say this is because most of the people I know will never step on stage, most of the people I know will never  get their pro card, most of the people I know don't  enjoy doing all of this, most of the people that I know have a different relationship with food, and most of the people that I know just don't  set themselves  up for success. Becoming a stronger version of yourself does is what it is all about. Winning is a moment. However, growth is a lifetime.

Never Rush the Process

My journey wasn’t fast because my prep started the end of days of January of 2025.And it definitely wasn’t perfect. If and when it’s your time, your moment will come. You can’t force it, buy it, shortcut it, or compare it to anyone else’s timeline. You just have to take your time and start the process early. People always say I am crazy for prepping for 12 to 10 months. However, it works for me. I can take my time, do diet breaks as needed, and expect the unexpected because life happens.

Progress rewards patience.

The People You Meet Matter More Than Placings

Bodybuilding introduced me to friends, mentors, athletes, and people who became family. Some of the best memories I have weren’t on stage — they were backstage, in the gym, on the road, and in the moments that remind me why I love this sport. Especially all of these years hanging out with my big brother Alberto Nunez. I spent years hanging out with him and all those memories I will hold dearly to my heart especially since he does not live here with me locally.

These connections last long after the lights fade.

The Memories Stay Forever

Every prep, every check-in, every big lift, every setback…They all become part of your story. When you look back years from now, you shouldn’t think about who beat you — you’ll should think about how far you’ve come and the friendships you have molded. Mine just happened to start in 2009 when I did my very first show in Sacramento CA. Since then I got hooked, the friendships, the memories, and most importantly my mom. She used to go to my shows when she was still here with us. She would always cheer me on, she would travel with me to my shows, and now that she is gone, those memories mean so much more for me. The last time she saw my brother and myself on stage and prepping together was in 2014. My mother traveled with me to Battle of The Bay in 2018 when I won my pro card and then she went to LA with me in 2018 for worlds where I placed top 5 and then she was not able to see me in 2025 On stage next to me my big brother. These memories I hold close to me because being on stage with him in Sacramento where I did my first show was an emotional one.

Your why….

It is ok to lose.

It is ok to be last.

It is ok to not be where you want to be yet.

What’s not ok is quitting on yourself.

I'm still here, continuing to grow and learn, and my love for this sport remains as strong as it was from the beginning. However, it's crucial to have a strong reason for what you do; otherwise, you'll face challenges. Don't pursue it for likes, followers, or online fame. The most important things are those closest to you. My reason has made embracing this as a lifestyle much easier, and I intend to keep moving forward. My wife has also been nothing but supportive and has stood by my side this entire time. She gives me hope and helps me while I work both jobs. She has been nothing but amazing and I hope to keep pushing forward with her in promoting Battle of the Bay, bodybuilding, and life.

The medals I've earned this year won't accompany me when I leave this life; only the memories will.