Cree Cole: Written in Progress

I spent much of my childhood wrestling with the discomfort of not knowing who I truly was. As a young girl, I felt like I was always wearing masks crafted by the expectations of others. Beauty, acceptance, and belonging were like distant stars—visible but forever out of reach. I compared myself relentlessly to others, convinced I was never enough—not pretty enough, not smart enough, not worthy enough. These feelings didn’t fade as I grew older; instead, they deepened. Failed friendships and romantic relationships compounded my self-doubt, each disappointment casting a sharper reflection of inadequacy. This cycle of self-doubt, depression, and self-hate drained my ambition and left me questioning my purpose.

By my 30s, I had become a shadow of the person I longed to be. Life felt stagnant, a constant loop of empty routines. I stopped striving and settled into mere existence, disconnected from my dreams and my reflection. Yet, even in that season of emptiness, a quiet realization emerged: I could no longer live like this. I retreated into solitude, carving out space to truly meet myself for the first time. In that stillness, I began to confront my pain and strip away the layers of other people's expectations. Slowly but surely, I uncovered my own voice, my own worth, and the light that had been dimmed but never extinguished.

In exploring the emotional, spiritual, and physical aspects of myself, I experienced a rebirth. Forgiving myself and others allowed me to reclaim my power. This transformation wasn’t just about healing—it was about redefining who I was on my terms. It was during this awakening that coaching became a lifeline. Starting in 2010, guiding young women on the basketball court gave me a sense of purpose and a renewed drive. They saw something in me I hadn’t yet fully grasped: a role model, a mentor, and a living example of perseverance. Their belief in me reignited my determination to embody the principles I was teaching—to live authentically, lead with integrity, and rise above my struggles.

Everything I have experienced—the trials and triumphs, the heartbreaks and breakthroughs—has shaped who I am today. These moments are not just chapters of my story; they are the foundation of my growth. Supported by the love of family and friends, I relocated to South Carolina to continue this journey of self-discovery, which birthed LYF According 2 Cree. Over the years, this vision has grown into LYFtheBrand, LYF Works journals, and a platform to inspire and empower others through coaching and connection. Becoming a certified LYF Coach in 2023 was not just a milestone; it was a testament to the transformative power of self-belief. Today, I stand tall, driven by the lessons of my past and motivated to reach new heights. The story of Cree Cole is one of evolution, and it propels me to continually set new goals, break new barriers, and guide others toward their own journeys of rebirth.