Jessica laxson

For years, my identity was defined by motherhood. I am a stay-at-home mom, a wife, a housekeeper, a chef, and, for a time, a homeschool teacher. I poured every ounce of my energy into my husband, my kids, and our home. I had an overflowing plate for everyone else, and an empty one for myself.

​I was trapped in a heavy mental funk. I knew I couldn't be the present, loving mother my children deserved when I felt so depleted.

​The first, incredibly difficult, and ultimately liberating decision I made was to put the kids into school. It felt like failure, but it was actually the ultimate act of self-care. I decided to dedicate the following school year to myself—what I now call my "selfish year."

​My primary goal was simple yet profound: to rebuild myself. After feeling lost and defined only by others for so long, I wanted to rediscover and define who I was again, from the inside out. I knew that when Mom is happy and well, she can be more present, productive, and joyful with her children when they get home.

​My husband was the one who suggested Crossfit Central. He would drive by the gym almost daily. He said:  "Those women there are incredibly strong—go see what they're about."

​I was nervous and unsure. I was not into lifting, and I never considered myself an athlete. I took that first step into the gym and I didn't turn back. (Something I am still so proud of.) Knowing they had women's only group sealed the deal. More than weights, I needed Community—a place where strong women get it and where I could finally find peace within myself.

​Once I started, I committed fully. My goal of rebuilding quickly translated into action: I signed up for everything the gym offered. I did challenges, showed up consistently, and started testing my limits. It's crazy how in a place as loud as this gym, my mind is the most silent. 

​The internal strength I built led to physical accomplishments I never thought possible:

​DEKA: I signed up and completed my first DEKA Mile at the gym.

​Iron Bell: Despite hesitation, I signed up for my first weightlifting competition—the Iron Bell! Competing alongside two other warrior moms was the first massive step in proving that I could do the hard things.

​HYROX: I recently completed my first HYROX race—an incredibly difficult challenge—and finished with an amazing time of 1 hour and 32 minutes! #housewifetohyrox

My mental toughness is at an all time high, and my physical fitness is consistently improving. 

​This year has given me more than a new physique; it has given me a new foundation. The goals are not stopping; they're only getting bigger and better. I'm already signed up for another HYROX competition in Houston with a partner.

​I now come home to my kids as a mom who is energized, grounded, and truly present. My 'selfish year' is proving to be the most giving year of all, and I've found that when you commit to yourself, there is truly no end in sight to what you can build.

CrossFit Central Burnet is an Austin gem, period. The community is so incredibly supportive. They cheer louder for you than anyone you know—because they genuinely want to see you succeed.

Everything has changed. As a mom, I rarely put myself first—but CrossFit became the promise I made to myself to show up and do something just for me.

Inside that gym, I’ve found both strength and peace. It’s funny—despite all the noise, it’s the one place where my mind feels completely quiet.

The weight on my barbell keeps climbing, and last month alone I’ve hit several new PRs. I’m reaching for the heavier dumbbells and kettlebells without hesitation—and I’m proud of that.My endurance has skyrocketed too. Not long ago, the thought of running a mile was terrifying. Now, I can run with the class and keep up with the pack.

Most importantly, my mental health is the strongest it’s ever been. When I show up for myself, I’m able to show up even better for my husband and kids.

SOMETHING IN YOUR DAILY LIFE THAT IS EASIER NOW THAT YOU HAVE CENTRAL IN YOUR LIFE… Keeping up with my kids. I can throw my 8 year old just as far as dad can in the pool! (That was a goal)