Woody Fox didn’t begin developing his circus skills until he was 22 – he joined an adult circus class in Sydney.

“I was never good at anything in life, and for the first time I’d found something that clicked with me…” explains Fox. “I started doing classes a few times a week, and that turned into full-time schooling and a career.”

It’s a period in his life that Fox is reflecting on in a recent Instagram post. If you’re looking for a bit of inspiration or motivation, then Woody Fox has some powerful words for you.

“Arrived in Sydney and it’s new beginnings to new adventures and I’m back to where it all began.
8 years ago I was in Sydney trying my first circus class at the age of 22. This also was the same year I did my first nude photo shoot.
In my head I had failed at life already as I was not book smart, not athletic but just a small lost Twink trying to find his rainbow.
I remember standing on the edge of a cliff in North Bondi daily wondering if any would would care if I jumped and how long it would take before i was just forgotten.
That’s when it hit me, “if I’ve already failed I have nothing to loose”
When I began porn and circus the majority of people in my life told me I would destroy any chance of being a success.
Under the assumption that I had already failed I thought I may as well just do what I enjoy and follow my gut.
Years later I look back at my 8 year career in porn, my many circus contracts leading me to land in the cirque du soleil data base, my world travels and the amazing people I have met.
I could have given up, jumped off that cliff in North Bondi but I didn’t. I gave life a chance and stopped letting the judgement of other people control how I live.
I know from personal experience that life can suck and in no way was it an easy journey after that but it did get better. So much better and I did have so much more to give.
I’m writing this post not because I’m asking for sympathy but to reach out to anyone that ever feels like they have nothing left to give or that feels like they have failed or should give up.
You have so much to give in this world so stop worrying about other people and what they think and just live. Follow your heart, make mistakes and don’t be afraid to fuck up. You are amazing, worth it and loved. Your life will be full of ups and downs and those downs will only make the ups even better.
Don’t give up because I promise it does get better.
Remember, even if you can’t see it, you are loved, you are amazing and it will get better.
And to all those lost gay boys/trans folk, know I support you, I love you and you are always apart of my family.”