Success is a word that carries many meanings. For some, it’s wealth, status, or accolades. For me, success is the culmination of a journey. This journey began in the depths of homelessness and addiction and led to a life filled with purpose, authenticity, and fulfillment. It’s about realizing dreams once thought impossible and embracing new chapters with courage and hope.
The Road to Success Wasn’t Straight
Looking back, success wasn’t handed to me. It was earned through years of struggle, self-discovery, and relentless determination. After finding calm and love—the foundations of my healing—I faced the following challenge: building a life that reflected my true self and honoured my past but wasn’t defined by it.
The path was anything but smooth. There were setbacks, doubts, and moments when the weight of my history threatened to pull me back. But I learned that success is not the absence of failure; it’s the ability to rise each time we fall.
Building ADDICTED Magazine: A Dream Takes Shape
One of the most tangible markers of my success is ADDICTED Magazine. What started as a vision to share authentic stories and uplift voices like mine has become one of the fastest-growing digital publications. It’s a platform built on friendship, hope, and positive intentions—values Nadia Elkharadly and I hold dear.
Creating ADDICTED was both a creative outlet and a mission. It allowed me to channel my experiences into something meaningful, to help others discover authentic content and connect with brands that align with their values. Running a business while staying true to my story and purpose has been a rewarding, if challenging, journey.
Even better is learning, reading, and doing endless research about mental health, well-being, and happiness, and then writing about what I found and my experiences. This has not only been a happy reminder but a tool for reflection and growth.
I had no idea that by starting ADDICTED, it would not only change my entire life, but it would also help to shape the new me.
The Move to Valencia: Embracing New Horizons
After years of hard work and growth, I was at a crossroads. The next chapter of my life called for a bold change—a leap into the unknown. After years of working within the Canadian marketplace, I sadly found that there was little money to be made there, even when you were interacting with the the most prominent brands, outlets and PR agencies, so, over the years I expanded my work in social media, consulting and with ADDICTED internatinally to be prepaired for a move, where I could find a new place and space, where I didn’t feel frustrated from making something global, that wasn’t propertly supported by the community in which I was born rasied and spent over a decade working in.
Moving to Valencia, Spain, was more than a geographical shift; it was a declaration of my commitment to living fully and authentically, knowing that wherever I landed, I’d be fine financially and mentally.
Valencia’s vibrant culture, warm climate, and welcoming community offered a fresh canvas. Here, I could embrace new opportunities, deepen my creative work, and continue healing in a place that inspired me.
The move wasn’t without challenges. Navigating a new language, culture, and business environment tested my resilience. But each hurdle reinforced the lessons I’d learned: adaptability, patience, and the power of community.
Success Beyond the Surface: Living Authentically
I’ve come to understand that success is about more than external achievements. It’s about living in alignment with your values and passions. For me, that means sharing my story openly, advocating for mental health and addiction recovery, and creating spaces where others feel seen and heard.
Running ADDICTED Magazine remotely from Valencia has allowed me to blend work and life in ways I never imagined. I’m able to explore new creative projects, connect with global audiences, and maintain the balance that keeps me grounded.
It’s taken me years to really believe in and feel proud of myself, but this move has solidified both. I don’t say this often, but I’m very proud of the man I am today.
The Role of Relationships in Success
Success isn’t a solo journey. Beau’s love and support, Manny’s companionship, and the friendships I’ve cultivated over the years have been integral to my growth. They remind me that success is sweeter when shared.
Beau and I continue to grow together, navigating life’s changes with mutual respect and love. Manny, now a beloved part of our family, brings joy and grounding to our everyday lives, and the network I have built online probably inspires me more than I inspire them.
Giving Back: Success as Service
With success comes responsibility. I’m committed to using my platform to uplift others—to share stories of resilience, to advocate for those still struggling, and to foster community. Success feels most meaningful when it’s a force for good.
At ADDICTED, we feature brands, outlets, charities, trailblazers and changemakers who inspire positive impact. Through authentic storytelling and social impact messaging, we aim to create a ripple effect of hope and action.
Lessons Learned on the Road to Success
- Resilience is key: Success is built on the ability to keep moving forward despite obstacles.
- Authenticity matters: Staying true to yourself attracts the right opportunities and people.
- Community supports growth: Surround yourself with those who uplift and challenge you.
- Embrace change: Growth often requires stepping out of your comfort zone.
- Purpose fuels passion: Align your work with your values for lasting fulfillment.
Reflecting on the Journey
From my early struggles in Toronto to the sunny shores of Valencia, my journey has been marked by transformation. Each phase—finding calm, discovering love, and now embracing success—has taught me invaluable lessons about hope, courage, and the human spirit.
I share my story not to boast but to show that your dreams are valid and achievable, no matter where you start. The road may be long and winding, but with perseverance and support, you can create a meaningful and authentic life.
Continuing the Journey
Success isn’t a final destination; it’s an evolving journey. I continue to set new goals, explore new passions, and deepen my connections. Through ADDICTED Magazine and my personal platforms, I remain committed to inspiring others and advocating for change.
For those on their own path, remember: your past doesn’t define your future. Every day is an opportunity to move closer to the life you envision.
Final Thoughts
Finding success has been one of the most rewarding chapters of my life. It’s a testament to the power of resilience, love, and authenticity. Whether facing your own challenges or dreaming big for the future, know that your journey matters. You matter, and your dreams are within reach.
*If you’re looking for help or guidance to make a change in your life, visit my help page today to access information, my course, and an array of other resources.
markmunroe
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