For a while now, many of you have asked me daily about my beauty and make-up routine. I’m excited to finally share all of those tips with you HERE. But before I get into my makeup bag, I want to talk about another kind of makeup.
All of you, every single one, have your own individual makeup. Who you are and who you’re growing to become is completely unique, and you have a very special gift to offer this world. For me, it took having cancer and breaking free of the corporate grind to fully understand and embrace my creativity. I’ve realized that it’s my special gift, and I must harness it in order to spread light and love through my photography collaborations and through The New Southern. As I learned (and continue to learn!) how to use my gift for good, I’ve begun to love myself and others more and more.
Through this amazing, interconnected web of conversations that we call social media, I’ve personally connected with so many of you. Your story and your own special makeup pushes me to work harder and share beautiful things with you every day. But without fully knowing and loving myself, I wouldn’t be able to open up, be vulnerable, and above all, be completely authentic with you. Connecting to my inner beauty and wellbeing has allowed me to reach a higher potential than I could’ve imagined. Here, find a few of my tips for completely knowing and loving yourself. It makes all the difference. Promise.
ALLOW YOURSELF TO BE PRESENT…
The most powerful tool in life is being completely present in the current moment. Over the years, I’ve learned to let go of the past with love and appreciation, and to not worry so much about what lies ahead. Truly embrace what’s right in front of you, set aside time for stillness..... and it is within these moments connection to the world around you happens and ultimate self care. The power is in the present.... great connection with your work, family and opportunity can result when you choose to focus on the current moment. Right now, I hope my words are touching your heart and set the tone for the rest of your day.
Allow yourself self-love…
Be kind to yourself. Throughout the day, it is so important to be aware of the inner dialogue you have with yourself. It’s crucial that your personal thoughts come from a place of kindness and grace rather than judgement. We all are doing the best we can—try not to beat yourself up about every minute detail. There is beauty in the smallest of completed tasks. When you complete them, give yourself a pat on the back, or look into the mirror and tell yourself how special you are. Self-love comes in many forms.... Being kind to yourself, selecting healthy foods to feed your body, hydrating, cultivating time for play and creativity throughout the day (even if it is just 5 minutes), and the one I believe in most.. is getting enough sleep. These small supporting actions are the simplest forms of self love. They work for me and I hope they work for you.
And always keep humble confidence….
I remember on my last podcast interview, the very first question the show host asked was “What’s your favorite fashion accessory?” To be honest, I was a little peeved, considering the question was unrelated to my field or passion, and I don’t ever want to be someone defined by my favorite handbag or a pair of heels. Calmly, and with grace, I responded that my favorite accessory is confidence. And more and more, I’m realizing that humble confidence is truly key in my world right now.
So often, I’m really scared. You may not believe me, but I am. My businesses are rapidly growing, and I now have to be more decisive and forward-thinking than ever. I make tough decisions every day. But because I face this decision-filled time with self-confidence in myself and my work, I know that whatever the outcome is, I’ve got this. Having this faith deep down inside, and constantly reminding myself that I’ve survived life thus far, the corporate world, and cancer, I can safely say I can take on anything. To each of you, especially the mothers out there, who are thriving at the most difficult job in the world, I commend you. And I encourage you to exercise this self-assurance. Even when you stumble, it’ll help you pick right back up where you left off.
