Confidence is the feeling or belief that one can rely on someone or something. Self-confidence is when you feel that way about yourself. Sometimes it’s hard to do but you just have to find the strength to get you there. Being confident is all about knowing yourself and trusting that you are capable of whatever you put your mind to. It’s a journey, not a destination and sometimes we all just need a little reminder.
This year, I did a little something to put my self-confidence on full display. I turned 25 this year and decided to do a birthday shoot emulating the internet-breaking Lizzo album cover. Real. Raw. Bare. The inspiration for my birthday shoot was that I wanted my friends, followers, and supporters to really see me and know the journey that I’ve been on of self-growth and self-love. I was honestly terrified of posting the photo because it was so revealing but I knew that it had to be done and that those who needed the message would get it.
I have been on a journey. A journey of self love, self confidence, and self growth. I am unapologetically ME which means that I am going to be the best version of myself FOR myself and for those around me. It’s been a continuous journey of really establishing who I am. “Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.” So, YOU get to decide who you are and how other people see you. YOU control the narrative in your life. I wanted people to know that it’s okay to struggle sometimes with confidence because I often do myself even though it may never seem like it to the outside world. I’ve just had to adjust how I approach everything and do it with a smile, grace, and warm embrace.
I wanted people to see the post and let it resonate with who needed it. I knew that somewhere someone needed an extra boost of confidence and encouragement and that was the goal of the post. I know that with my platform I have a lot of people looking at me and my socials all the time and I often get young women who tell me that they look up to me and I wanted them to know that I see them, I love them, and I hear them.
Learning to love me, flaws and all, has been a beautiful journey and I wanted to share it in hopes that others would take a moment to self-evaluate and check their own self-love progress. Sometimes people fake the funk just to get by which is fine, but it’s always good to have a reality check and really be one with yourself. Being able to accept what you may not like about yourself or your body might be that one step closer to feeling just a little bit more whole.
Confidence isn’t something that just comes in an instant. It takes time, patience, and practice. It’s a journey and it’s your journey. No one else’s.
Love,
Kayla Walker
Community Manager
kayla@myavana.com