When I decided to follow my dreams and do the blogging thing, all while working a full time job, I had no idea what I was in store for. I officially started blogging in the summer of 2016, and its been one hell of a ride, but oh so rewarding. If I knew then what I know now, I would’ve definitely embarked on the journey sooner. I also would have put way more effort into it in the first couple of years.
I love the process of creating. The finished product is wonderful, but it’s definitely a job. We’re currently having a snow storm here in NYC, and its putting a damper on my content creation. The weather can be a bit of an issue when it comes down to shooting here in NYC, with its extreme highs and lows. During the winter months like in these photos, I’m freezing my buns off. Then there’s the city summers, which are a whole different animal. The heat can be a bit stifling in the city because of all the exhaust from taxis, buses and cars. I remember once, in one of my photos that I posted, my makeup was literally sliding off my face. Also, picking outfits that are stylish yet cool, that I won’t faint in, is a whole other issue during the summer months.
All in all it’s been a blast though. I’m learning so much and pushing myself to new heights. Recently I made a conscious decision to make fear, and procrastination (the mother and father of all things evil) take several back seats. I’m stepping out on faith in-spite of them both. I’m doing things that I would’ve never ever done normally, like reaching out to strangers, veteran bloggers that have been in the industry for a minute, to ask their advice, without fear of rejection (believe me I’ve experienced a lil bit..lol) and it’s making me more determined and stronger. One thing I’ve noticed in my experience, is like in a lot of industries, some people (especially my ladies, I’m just saying) are very tight lipped and competitive. Don’t get me wrong, thank God I’ve encountered some awesome women, but overall it’s a jungle (sighs), but I’m no wussy.
So, I will continue to DM bloggers I admire, email them, and stop them in the street even, for tips and advice…all while sharing with them how bomb I think they are. When the time is right, I’ll reach out to brands that I feel are a mutual fit. You all know the saying “closed mouths don’t get fed” right? I know that it’s gonna take a lot more hard work, so I’m prepared to grind…that way I can pull my chair up to the table and eat well (insert smiley face). I‘m in this for the long haul.
Besides, I totally get why some people would be very stingy with their tricks of the trade, most of them have worked their butts off to get to where they’re at. Sharing is just part of my DNA though. When we help someone else, it helps us grow. Make no mistake, theres plenty for us all.
One thing I know for sure is..this journey has opened my eyes and heart up to the unlimited growth that we can experience in our lives, if we just believe in ourselves and step out on faith. Supermodel, I’m not..award winning writer, so far from it…world class traveler, I’m working on it, but this pandemic won’t let me be great (belly laughs). One thing I am, is inspired by life…by the possibility of all the possibilities. Most of all I’m inspired by the journey itself. What goals, dreams and aspirations have you been contemplating lately or for the past years? Push through the fear, ignore the naysayers and go for it. Just be prepared to werk.
I hope you all enjoyed this post.
Until our next stylish encounter..as always loves, stay inspired.
Thanks for sharing your heart. Sharing with others is truly in your DNA. This inspires me and literally made me sit and think about my life again. I can be all over the place because I have so many thoughts and ideas but what are 3 things that I want to focus on? And take risk with those things in anyway possible. Thank you
Hey my friend! You’re most welcome! You got this. Just keep going, and rewriting your story. Someone needs what you have to offer.
xoxo
This is an excellent post!!!! The part about reaching out to others for help touched home. I reached out to a pretty big muckity muck here in Toronto, after she said on her info vid to ‘reach out if….’ and it was pure rejection. I was shocked and disgusted. I recently reached out to another big Influencer right there in your hometown and she, unconditionally provided me with a wealth of knowledge that landed me a paid partnership. Elaine, you too have been so supportive when I reached out in the past. I just wish that more would support more. Those that don’t truly believe that their S&%t don’t stink. As for getting into Blogging, I’ve been giving it a lot of thought and I’ve been encouraged to do so. I’m nervous though but after reading this post, I gotta take the leap of faith. 🙌🏾🙌🏾
YAAY! So happy you’re ready to take that leap. It’s a good thing that you didn’t stop reaching out after that one encounter with the Toronto blogger.I could tell stories about the fakes I’ve encountered in NYC, but I won’t. Not my style. Keep shining queen. The sky is not the limit.
xoxo
It was so good to learn more about your journey!!! Would you believe that you were one of my greatest inspirations! Remember when we met in the elevator as I was going up to The event Monroe was hosting! After that I started following you and was like damn, she’s older and she’s killin it, so Maybe there is space for me! You are truly one of a kind. Inner beauty trumps putter beauty all the time and you have so much of both! Love you sis!! Here’s to continuing to reach all your dreams and some! 🎉🎉🎉
Hey babe!
Thanks so much for stopping by! I’m so geeked that I can inspire another sister like that. You my friend have been such an awesome supporter..I appreciate you so much. It’s not often you run into sincere, kind and hard working people. You are all of the above and some. I’m so looking forward to life opening back up again, so we can meet up in person. Cheers to great things in the future for both of us! xoxo
Sorry about the typos 😝
Bravo! Loved this blog post. Your a winner in my book. Sharing is caring my lady…
Great post Elaine! Thank you sharing your journey. I am new to the Influencer world. I believe there is tool for all of us. I have run into tight lipped people as well. However, I have met very helpful people that want to see me win! I love your blog and IG feed. Keep shining! 👑✨✨✨
Awesome post! All that you say is true! Bloggers work harder than almost anyone. I have blogged since 2013 and for a couple of years put full 8 9 hour days and nights and in between. My fire burned out. I finally decided to keep it where I enjoyed it and slowed back down to hobby. Now I’m back to having fun. It’s a creative outlet like no other. Your blog and IG are amazing and its fun to see you fly! I support you 100%! I have been the target of a bully or two and it was amazing because they were my age! I thought you grew out of that but guess not. Haha! Keep styling on!
Peace
Cheryl
Southwesterndesertliving.com
Hey Cheryl! Thanks so much for stopping by, and thank you for the kind compliments. I appreciate them so much. I too have experienced a bit of passive aggressive behavior. It’s actually happened recently. There’s even a clique like thing going on. But I know it’s the other person (s) insecurities. So yeah, no women don’t grow out of it..lol. Keep shinning lady! You’re beautiful!
xox
Oh Elaine thank you so much for sharing this post. You inspire so many (hand raised over here) and for newbies (me) to read this inspires me to keep going. I can’t wait to see where you go from here. I’m watching and learning from afar!
Hello Elaine, this post was very enlightening to me. I have been wanting to blog for years and I’ve been too afraid to do so. I admire you providing this information to guide people like myself as well as encouraging us to follow our dreams. I know it’s a lot of work, esp for us that work full time but I have made up my mind to do what makes me happy and fashion definitely brings a smile to my face. Although I have no clue where to start but its good to know that I can reach out to fellow fashionistas like yourself. Thank you for being so authentic!! Blessings!! Coretta @cozy_cre8tionz