Pick Up Your Feelings: Unlocking The Power From Within
“We want you to model for the upcoming fashion show” Erin, The Editor & Chief
for Live Affirmed Magazine, texted me one day. We had just launched the new fashion line for the magazine and my phone almost fell out of my hands and into the coffee I had just made at the time. I didn’t know how to respond,because what Erin didn’t know was that I had struggled with low self-esteem for years. It's one of the reasons why I fell in love with writing in the first place, I could put my words on paper and remain faceless.
After achieving weight loss goals I had not grown used to the attention I had been
receiving. It's easy to have the preconceived notion that as a content creator I shouldn't have a fear of being seen, but that is not always the case. I could feel my brain coming up with different scenarios and reasons as to why I should say no, or a lie that I wasn’t available. Before my mind could go any further I quickly typed the words “ I would love too” , because for the year of 2024 my word is “boldness” and it was at that moment that I knew I had to push past my own fear and come out of my comfort zone permanently.
Self-confidence, often perceived as an inherent trait, is actually a journey of
growth, self- discovery, and perseverance. My personal journey to self-confidence has been a transformative process marked by challenges, introspection, and ultimately, an embrace of my authentic self. In a world brimming with opportunities and challenges, confidence is the key that unlocks the door to personal and professional success. Yet, many of us struggle with self-doubt and insecurity. If you’ve ever felt unsure of yourself, you’re not alone. The good news is that confidence can be cultivated and strengthened,much like a muscle.
Growing up, I often felt overshadowed by the accomplishments and personalities
of those around me. Comparisons with peers, coupled with a relentless inner critic, left me feeling inadequate. I vividly remember moments in school where I hesitated to raise my hand, fearing that my contributions wouldn't measure up. Social interactions were equally daunting, as I constantly second-guessed my worthiness and relevance in conversations.I avoided taking risks, opting for safe choices that shielded me from potential failure. This protective cocoon, while comfortable, stifled my growth and perpetuated a cycle of self-loathing, insecurity, hiding, and not maximizing my full potential. With that being said, the time had finally come to break out of my shell and tap into who God says I truly am: bold, brilliant, and beautiful.
The days leading up to the fashion show made me nervous. I replayed every failed opportunity in my mind and this only made me dread the day, which arrived quickly. It's easy to stay in the background, people can’t critique who they do not see, but God designed me to stand out. I had to remind myself to challenge negative self-talk and that this goal was achievable.
This shift in my mindset was revolutionary. I began to see my fear of failure not as a reflection of my worth but as a stepping stone towards growth. One pivotal experience was taking control of my health, and speaking publicly to motivate others regarding diabetes awareness. Initially, the thought of speaking in front of an audience was terrifying. However, with each speech, I felt my confidence inching forward. The inspired action allowed me to make mistakes and learn from them, fostering a sense of resilience and self-assurance. Embracing authenticity meant accepting my flaws and celebrating my strengths. It involved acknowledging that perfection is an illusion and that my unique qualities are what make me valuable. This newfound acceptance liberated me from the need for external validation, allowing me to derive confidence from within.
Gaining confidence in yourself is a journey, not a destination. It requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to grow. So I chose to show up to the fashion show, not just for the staff, but for myself and the past version of me who didn’t see her value. I felt so empowered walking the runway and seeing my Mom in the crowd meant everything to me. It truly became a public demonstration of how I went from a nervous girl to this multifaceted woman. By understanding your insecurities, setting achievable goals, cultivating a positive mindset, and embracing continuous learning, you can build the confidence needed to navigate life’s challenges with resilience, style, and grace. Remember, confidence is not about never feeling fear or doubt; it’s about moving forward despite them and believing in your ability to succeed. Unlock the power within you and watch as the world opens up in response to your newfound confidence.
Cheria Moore
Cheria is a Chicago native who relocated to the Rocket City after graduating from Loyola University. She has collaborated with several brands such as Weight Watchers, The American Diabetes Association, Essence, and Health Monitor Magazine. Cheria is the creator of the Queenship Blog, an advocate for diabetes and she is a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated.
IG: xocheria