What do you love most about yourself––what are you most proud of?
I love my strength and perseverance! Powering through tough times and being able to be the rock for my daughter. I’m really proud of my strength and my vision in life.
Is confidence something that came naturally to you or was it something you had to learn?
I’ve always had confidence, it was one of those things “If I don’t love myself, who else is going to love me”
What does confidence feel like to you? When do you feel the most confident?
For me confidence is all about being comfortable with where you are currently in life. Comfortable being you, comfortable in your skin and comfortable in whatever clothing you choose to wear. I feel the most confident when my life is in balance.
How has your confidence changed with time?
When it comes to confidence I feel like we all have or days when we don’t feel the best and might not be so confident. That's why it’s very important to check in on your mental and don’t be so hard on yourself.
Role models are important for women of all ages–is there anyone in particular whose confidence or advice helped you find your own inner beauty?
My grandmother is my biggest role model who helped see my inner beauty at an early age (7). I would sit and watch her (a plus-size woman) get ready for our family functions. I loved how she carried herself and how all eyes would turn on her she could walk into a room. It was definitely her confidence.
Words are powerful, and they can have a powerful effect on our own personal narratives–what advice can you share on learning how to combat negative self-talk and tap into the power of positivity?
Whenever I feel myself going down the hole of negative self-talk I try to focus on the things I love about myself. We will forever have those days when we just aren’t feeling ourselves but that's what positive self talk is for. I also try to journal my negativity away.
Who do you turn to for support in life? Describe how they bring out the best in you and empower you to live your life without limits?
Believe it or not, my father is the person in the life who I run to for support. He reminds me of who I am and what I can do.
What advice can you share for women on cultivating confidence and self-love?
I think the key to self love is learning to be selfish. Knowing that it is ok to set boundaries and it’s important to take time to yourself.
How do you make time to prioritize self-love and self-care?
Self-love/Self-care is a top priority in my life. I map out time for just me daily and once a month I treat myself. It’s important to not only love on yourself but to also take care of yourself.