How to Embrace Your True Identity and Define Your Own Happiness

Hey beauties, I have a question for you: what makes you happy?

I asked myself this question after being on a medical leave from my job for 3 weeks after having an emotional breakdown. I had officially been diagnosed with depression and anxiety and was performing at such a high rate with little training at a job I hated.

Now the word “hate” is not something that I use. In fact, I forbid my little ones from using it. But when you are constantly overworked, your mind never stops, you reach out for help but see little return or acknowledgement, and it seems everyone you reach out to shrugs off your emotional well being, it’s a lot to handle. So yes, I give myself a pass to use that word.

Now back to my moment in the mirror, I decided that I had to authentically have a mind that was ready to take on anything that came at me vs being so consumed with overwhelm that life would end up passing me by.

When you start to live authentically for yourself, as yourself, and to yourself, you also give others around you the courage to fully be themselves as well. 

I have always loved a bold woman. From history makers such as Rosa Parks and Sojourner Truth to modern day ladies such as Luvvie Ajayi Jones and Bozoma Saint John. Letting your light shine is all about freeing yourself from the expectations of others and surrounding yourself with people who encourage you. 

So how do you boldly walk as your true self?

1 —

Figure out what makes you feel confident.

Do you boldly wear fashion? Love making art? Maybe it’s as simple as embracing your smile. Start with loving you and only you.

2 —

Surround yourself with people that stand by you.

That could mean that your circle will get smaller but at least it’s a circle that you know has your back.

3 —

Understand that when you start walking as you true self, others may stare from the sidelines.

Whether they are gossiping or encouraged I want to leave you with this quote from one of my favorite poems that boldly states:

As we let our own light shine, we consciously give other people permission to do the same.

At the end of the day, when its just you looking in the mirror at yourself, you have to be content with who you are and the choices you made aside from what anyone else had to say about it. Remember to light your candle daily and shine like the brilliant beauty that you are!

Be sure stay connected with me on Instagram for more tips on how to revive your inner HER and listen to my podcast episode about gaining confidence.