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Derek Lively's journey is a remarkable testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity and emerge stronger than ever. While he acknowledges his past as a self-proclaimed "problem child" and "shit show," his story is an inspiring testament to transformation.
In his youth, Derek found himself surrounded by negative influences and made choices that led him down a destructive path of drug addiction.
"My heroin addiction became really bad to point where I had 12 different overdoses. One in particular I almost had to have both my legs amputated.
Another time I was shot while on eight hits LSD. I took four bullets from a police's .38 special. I ended up going to prison for four years because of that. So I have just massive scars from the overdose, from getting shot and all the surgeries. Luckily I still have my legs, thank God, they're still kicking. "
Derek could have succumbed to his path that would have inevitably led to death or prison, however, he refused to let those circumstances define him.
Derek emerged from those close calls with a newfound appreciation for life and he embarked on a personal journey of growth and self-discovery.
"It was just a very pivotal moment in my life where I was thought to myself: 'This situation is a reflection of parts of me. And this is not who I am and this is not who I want to be. This is not what I wanna be affiliated or associated with.'
So I asked myself, 'What would the higher version of Derek do in this situation?'"
Derek knew he needed a new community because he couldn't go back to the friends that had been a part of his problematic life before, but who?
In a flash of inspiration, Derek decided to start a meditation group.
11 people showed up to his first event, kick started a journey that would lead Derek to building and growing a thriving community of the types of people who would encourage and support each other to grow into the best version of themselves.
Derek Lively's story is one of resilience, transformation, and the power of choosing to turn the page and start a new chapter.
By overcoming his past and refusing to let it define him, Derek's journey teaches us that, no matter our circumstances, we have the power to reclaim our lives and create a future filled with purpose and possibility.
Listen to the full episode to hear more of Derek's story and to be inspired in your own journey of overcoming whatever life throws at you.
Connect with Derek Lively on Instagram
Visit Derek's Studio Flowmagin in Austin
