A Guide to Imperfectly Living Your Life

Category: Self Love and Relationships

In order to receive the best love or to attract it, it starts with ourselves first. The way you treat yourself or see yourself will affect your relationship with others, including yourself. This isn’t something taught immediately, but self-love and relationships go hand in hand.

Self Love and Relationships

Empowering Change: Navigating Teen Violence in Relationships

Post author By Andreanna Whittaker
Post date 10:00pm03
No Comments on Empowering Change: Navigating Teen Violence in Relationships

Photo by Joshua Mcknight on Pexels.com

Introduction:

Despite the fact that today is the first of March, I would like to use this chance to review the awareness topic for the month of February. We aimed to bring attention to a problem that frequently remains hidden in the background of adolescent relationships: teen dating violence. The purpose of this piece is to increase awareness of the frequency of these events, their effects, and strategies for stopping and dealing with teen dating violence.

Defining Teen Dating Violence:

A pattern of violent behavior between two people in a relationship is known as “teen dating violence.” Abuse can occur in a number of ways, such as verbal, physical, emotional, or digital. It is a widespread problem that affects a large proportion of young teens worldwide. Teen dating violence occurs more frequently than most people think. Studies show that almost one in three American teenagers have dealt with some kind of dating violence. These acts of violence can have a significant effect and leave victims with long-term psychological and physical effects.

Recognizing the Signs:

Parents, educators, and peers should be aware of the warning signs of teenage dating violence. These could be dramatic drops in academic performance, behavioral changes, unexplained injuries, or social isolation. Intervention success depends on early detection. Teen relationships can be heavily influenced by internet platforms due to the widespread use of digital communication. A rising worry is cyberabuse, which includes digital manipulation, harassment, and stalking. It’s crucial to teach teenagers appropriate internet behavior limits as well.

Promoting Healthy Relationships:

Schools, parents, and community organizations can play a vital role in promoting healthy relationships. Incorporating relationship education into school curriculalm, providing resources, and fostering open communication channels can help create a supportive environment.

Effective Intervention Strategies:

In order to break the cycle of teenage dating violence, intervention is essential. This entails offering victims support resources, teaching offenders about the repercussions of their behavior, and, where required, enlisting the assistance of law enforcement. A thorough soultion requires collaborative efforts.

Community Involvement:

In order to confront and prevent teen dating violence, communities must collaborate. The One Love Organization’s goal is to inform young adults against relationship abuse, and I represent them as an ambassador. In order to raise awareness of this problem and promote communication between teenagers, parents, and educators, this organization organizes events, workshops, and awareness campaigns.

Conclusion:

The darker sides of young relationships needed to be acknowledged and addressed, even as we ended February. By bringing attention to the issue of teen dating violence, we may encourage healthy, respectful relationships among youth and provide communities and individuals the strength to speak out against abuse. I have personal experience with teen violence, thus I have a strong emotional attachment to this topic. I’m happy I was able to end the unhealthy relationship and go to college. It turned out to be the wisest choice I could have made. I was able to learn more about signs from organizations like One Love and ultimately teach others. Now that February is over, let’s not forget that it’s a time to celebrate love and create a more caring and secure atmosphere for those we love.

5 Ways to Practice Self-Love

Check out our previous post on ways to practice self love !

Tags community involvement, empowering change, healthy relationships, increasing awareness, intervention, one love organization, relationship abuse, signs, teen violence

Self Love and Relationships

Decoding Signals: 9 Ways a Man Shows He’s Interested in You”

Post author By Andreanna Whittaker
Post date 10:00pm02
1 Comment on Decoding Signals: 9 Ways a Man Shows He’s Interested in You”

Intro

It’s the season of love, ladies! Who’s the man that’s been on your mind and beginning to play with your emotions? It’s usually the cutest little things that make a lady fall in love with a man. A lady can feel uneasy or fluttery in her stomach, which is sometimes referred to as “butterflies.” The excitement and expectation that come with the beginnings of love sentiments are what cause this bodily reaction. A woman tends to think more about a man when she is starting to feel anything for him. It’s normal to daydream about past encounters, envision talks, and envision a possible future together. A woman may find herself truly worried for the happiness and well-being of the man she likes as her affections for him develop. This natural tendency for compassion is evidence of a growing emotional bond and sense of commitment to his life.

Finding out if a man is interested in you is significant for a number of reasons, including the fact that it is essential for initiating and maintaining romantic relationships. Establishing a healthy, communicative, and mutually rewarding relationship with a man who is into you is essential. It offers a strong basis for the growth of a partnership built on respect and common interests as well as emotional connection and trust.

Now, knowing when a man is showing interest in you may be comforting and exciting at the same time. Even while everyone communicates emotions in different ways, there are certain universal signs of sincere interest. This article will help you interpret the subtle clues of attraction as we look at seven important ways a man could express his interest in you.

9 ways a man shows he’s interested in you :

1.Consistent Communication: A man makes an effort to communicate consistently when he is genuinely interested in someone. This could be communicating via text, phone, or social media on a regular basis. He desires to converse with you on a regular basis, learn about your day, and share his experiences.

2. Makes Plans and Spends Quality Time: A man who is interested in you will make plans and make time for you. He makes an effort to create meaningful experiences together, whether it’s suggesting a dinner date, weekend getaway, or even just going out for coffee. This shows that he wants to strengthen their relationship.

3. Engagement and Active Listening: Being attentive is one of the best indicators of interest. A man will listen carefully to you, pose intelligent questions, and have deep, meaningful conversations when he is genuinely intrigued with you. This indicates his sincere desire to gain a deeper knowledge of you.

4. Body language: It’s incredibly expressive and can provide valuable insights into an individual’s emotional state. When he leans in to converse, keeps eye contact, or mimics your movements, a man who is interested in you will use open body language. Another obvious sign of his adoration is when he touches you, perhaps lightly on your back or arm.

5. Detail-oriented: A man who is interested pays attention to details. His ability to recall specific details shows that you occupy a unique spot in his mind, whether it’s recollecting your favorite dish, significant occasions, or recognizing your accomplishments.

6. Protective Instincts: A man who is interested in you might exhibit protective instincts, which are feelings of care for your well. This could show out in small ways like making sure you get home safely or lending his jacket if you’re cold. His behaviors demonstrate his willingness to put your safety and comfort first.

7. Acknowledgment and Fondness: Demonstrating gratitude and fondness is an obvious sign of attention. A man is likely to think well of you if he often remarks on your accomplishments, appearance, or personality. Furthermore, he can express his emotional connection with actions like stealing glances, holding hands, and giving cuddling.

8. Emotional Availability: An emotionally invested man is open to discussing his feelings, ideas, and vulnerabilities with you. Being emotionally open and forthcoming shows a desire to build a stronger bond and develop trust.

9. Financial Investment: A man’s willingness to make financial investments in presents or shared experiences is not the sole indication of his devotion, but it is one. This can be making contributions to group activities, giving considerate presents, or even providing financial support during hard times.

Conclusion

These seven actions offer important clues about a man’s true feelings, even though analyzing the signs of desire may need a sharp eye. Keep in mind that each person communicates themselves differently, thus a mix of these cues may reveal more about his intentions. Enjoy the process of exploring a possible romantic connection, pay attention to the details, and believe in your gut.

Tags Emotional Availability, Financial Investment, love, man showing interest, quality time, romantic connection, signs of interest

Self Love and Relationships

5 Ways to Practice Self-Love

Post author By Andreanna Whittaker
Post date 10:00am01
1 Comment on 5 Ways to Practice Self-Love

The discipline of appreciating, accepting, and taking care of oneself is known as self-love. It entails accepting your value and being nice, compassionate, and respectful to yourself. Developing a healthy, mental, and emotional relationship with oneself is the essence of self-love. Embracing your own self, realizing your value, and extending compassion to yourself are more important than being conceited or egotistical. Setting healthy boundaries, taking care of yourself, and maintaining a strong relationship with yourself are all part of this ongoing path. I suggest you look in the mirror and ask yourself, “What do I love about you?” How is our relationship going? It’s critical to take some time to examine yourself, step back, and observe how you handle yourself when you’re genuinely by yourself. The way that other people regard you is determined by the relationship you have with yourself. You set healthy limits and let people know you’re worth it when you love and respect yourself.

Although I’ve always known the importance of loving myself, I don’t believe I really put it into practice until this year. I told myself that I really needed to love and be patient with myself, especially at this point in my life. My dad’s passing has severely affected me and altered my perspective on life and what truly counts. I signed up for grief counseling so that I could, in Kim K’s words, “feel, heal, and deal.” I’ve been taking in the moment, traveling, and relishing my alone time throughout my life. I used to stay busy in order to avoid being alone, but these days I can’t get enough of my time spent alone. As I recover from my dad’s passing, everything I had been hiding from became clear. I now give my all to taking care of my health, mind, and spirit, as well as going on single dates and vacations. My glass started to fill as soon as I kept pouring inside myself. I was able to discern what and who actually cares about me. Since the intents were never pure in the first place, all the misleading links were slowly coming to light. I let love, truth, and all of my manifestations back into my life by opening the gate. Ultimately, we are alone when we are born and when we pass away. I advise you to cherish that relationship because no one will love you more than you love yourself. You won’t regret taking care of yourself. Make the most of this lifetime since you are your largest investment.

I treat myself with self-love in the following five ways:

1.Solo Dates

I used to worry that dining by myself would show that I’m a loner or don’t have any friends, but in reality that’s far from the truth. Enjoying a delicious meal, perhaps a glass of wine, and most importantly, your own company is possible on a solo date. It offers an opportunity for introspection and self-reflection on your needs, goals, and objectives. On these solo dates, one might challenge themselves, meet new people, feel more confident, and recharge. It’s time to take a chance and feel uncomfortable trying something new!

2. Affirmations in the Mirror

At one point in my life, I was pretty low in self-esteem, and one of the things I did to boost my confidence was to say affirmations to myself in the mirror. Those who talk to themselves about their problems seem more confident and less nervous. By putting bad feelings in perspective, talking about yourself in the third person can help you control them. Mirror affirmations can help you shift your perspective, cultivate a positive outlook, maintain focus on your objectives, have faith in your skills, and find motivation to work toward your goals. It attempts to access both your conscious and subconscious mind in order to inspire, test, and encourage you to realize your greatest potential.

3.Setting boundaries

This has been yet another essential element in my quest for self-love. I understood that the reason I was always feeling empty or burned out because I wasn’t setting clear boundaries for those around me or myself. I would give myself fully to everyone, to their desires and feelings. I never had much left over for myself since I was always giving so much to other people. Setting limits gives you a sense of self and makes room in your mind for you. You may accomplish self-imposed objectives, recognize and act upon your own preferences and ideas, and maintain healthy boundaries. Your self-worth is closely linked to the decisions and deeds you commit to.

4. Working Out

I live by the maxim that when you look good, you feel good. Giving your complete attention to both your internal and outward demands is a journey since they are interconnected. My mental health improves when I focus on my appearance as much as my inner struggles. Exercise can improve your sense of self-worth while lowering stress, worry, and negativity—three factors that might undermine your capacity to feel good about yourself. Through lowering stress, raising emotions of accomplishment, assisting in decision-making, enhancing your perspective on life, lessening self-criticism, and other factors, it boosts confidence and self-esteem. Health is Wealth!

5. Prayer & Gratitude

My solace after the devastating loss of losing my father has come from these two deeds. I knew I couldn’t overcome this challenge on my own, so I gave myself over to God while I was grieving. I had to go through this process alone; the people in my life could not help me with my suffering. All the storehouses of God’s boundless grace and power can be unlocked through prayer. As God is all-powerful, prayer has the capacity to do anything. Therefore, prayer is omnipotent. It is the most powerful weapon of all since it gives the remaining armor the strength it needs to combat the enemy. Your life’s purpose can become clearer to you if you pray and pay attention to the guidance God provides. You will receive guidance from God on why you are here and how to go back to live with Him after this life. Having gratitude offers us contentment, tranquility, and the ability to live in the moment. It’s been claimed that appreciation makes what we have sufficient. Receiving more won’t satisfy us either if we don’t have gratitude for what God has provided us. Gratitude is the secret to happiness.

What are some ways you practice self-love? Leave a comment below, and let’s share ideas.<3

Tags boundaries, gratitude, loving yourself, prayer, self care, self-love, setting boundaries, solo dates, Travel, working out

Self Love and Relationships

The Silent Strength: A Tribute to the Powerful yet Tender Bond Between Fathers and Daughters

Post author By Andreanna Whittaker
Post date 10:00am06
2 Comments on The Silent Strength: A Tribute to the Powerful yet Tender Bond Between Fathers and Daughters

“No one in this world can love a girl more than her father.”

Michael Ratnadeepak

The function of father originates with God, our heavenly father, and is a divine role and calling, according to the Bible. It is possible to become like God and to love and care for children in the same ways that God loves and cares for us by being a father, stepfather, grandfather, or foster father.

One of the strongest relationships in life is undoubtedly the one between a father and daughter. I can attest to this firsthand since even though my father is not physically here in my life, I feel his presence all the time. My father and I had a close relationship, and that relationship undoubtedly laid the groundwork for how I should be treated in other relationships as well as what I should anticipate and endure. If a lady has the chance to develop a relationship with her father, that will ultimately be her first and greatest love. I have always known that my father is intelligent, but I was unaware of the impact his knowledge or guidance would have on the rest of my life. It was said to me from an early age that I was an old spirit in a youthful body, and I think my father was too. A young woman’s conception of herself and her body can be set up by her father. When their fathers are present and kind toward them, young girls learn to perceive themselves favorably. Dads who unconditionally love and support their daughters are more likely to see their daughters develop positive body images.

“A daughter is a treasure and a cause of sleeplessness.”

Ben Sirach

It’s strange that I’m spending my first Father’s Day without my dad. A few weeks earlier, there seemed to be a gap. Normally, I would be discussing our plans for him this year with my mother. The only people who truly understand how empty and alone I feel are my mother and other people who have also lost a parent. It appears as though the entire strong foundation that my parents and I built has become unstable. I don’t know much anymore, besides living is hard because death is simple. There is so much I wanted to do for him and with him that I feel as though my purpose is in doubt right now. My father joked that he would teach my kids history and French when he became a grandfather, but this can no longer happen because he passed away. I won’t be able to call him merely to hear him laugh and get the guidance I require in any given circumstance. “You’re so beautiful and smart,” came after the tender hugs and kisses. No more fantasies of my father escorting me down the aisle and giving me away to a man he trusted. As I watch others live out their dreams, it’s difficult for me to accept that mine will never come true.

“Fathers, be good to your daughters. You are the god and the weight of her world.”
John Mayor

Since my dad passed away, I’ve been doubting everything about myself. What do I actually want out of life right now? How am I supposed to pick myself up and move on without him? No one is aware of an answer besides that “it takes time”. The only appropriate response in this kind of anguish would be time. The most valuable resource on Earth is time. I believe it is only proper to make the most of the present and live life in his honor. Even though I mourn him terribly, I am incredibly grateful for the many wonderful memories I have of my father. Being his daughter and even having his name is an honor, and I’m proud of my father.

My father and I had a number of chats before he went. Do you believe you have lived your life to the fullest? I questioned. What impression do you believe you’ll make on others, he replied, “Yes, I did. I never treated anyone differently no matter what room I was in”, according to my father. The memorial service for my father made it clear to me that he had an impact on not only myself but also everyone he came into contact with. His heart was as pure as it was possible to be, and his soul was as sweet as a sugar cane. I wonder when I will feel okay and my heart will feel whole once more.

My father is the source of my knowledge and compassion. I would have given my life for the chance to feel his love again . Until we meet again I sincerely love and miss you, Papa, Happy Father’s Day.

Check out this amazing song to listen today by John Mayer!

Tags bond, confidence, father's day, fathers and daughters, greiving, guidance, love, self respect, support, tribute

Self Love and Relationships

My Hero Left Me and Became My Angel

Post author By Andreanna Whittaker
Post date 10:00am03
3 Comments on My Hero Left Me and Became My Angel

On November 29, 2022 My life took a turn for the worst when I walked into my parents’ room following my usual routine and realized something was off about my father. He seemed to be asleep, but I soon realized his chest had no movement. Automatically, my heart sank to my gut, and I knew something was wrong. I felt for a pulse and felt nothing; once I called the hospice nurse, she came and pronounced my father dead.

In July, after rounds of radiation and then chemo, my father’s cancer cells were still producing and increasing. Once cancer spreads to one’s bones, it gets difficult to decrease the spread and kill the bad cells. My father decided that he did not want to continue chemo or try the next experimental drug. I’ll never forget the day he told my mother and I this, and our initial response was to push him and say “You got this; we will try whatever it takes”. My dad looked at my mother and me and said “I’m tired of trying”. Once I heard this, I knew my reality was going to change into something I had never imagined. At first we were frustrated and sad he was giving up, but we had to take a step back and ask, “Is Daddy living for us or himself”? The realization that no matter what, my father’s life is his—not mine or my mom’s—it’s his choice on how it goes. However he wants it to end should be respected because, at the end of the day, we are not the ones sick. I am not the one suffering or going through what my dad is. This was the start of trying to let go and preparing my dad for his transition to the afterlife.

“No other love in the world is like the love of a father has for his little girl.” – …

Now that we’ve stopped chemo, I’ve seen my father’s pain increasing, his appetite decreasing, and his body slowly shutting down. The cancer doctor had recommended that if it got to the point where there was nothing to do, he at least consider hospice as an option so he could at least be comfortable until the end. I can say that to this day, I am happy that I pushed it for my dad. He was very grateful for me even having the meeting; once they came to our home and answered all our questions, we knew right then that this was the best decision. Within months on hospice, while the cancer was spreading to the bones, the tumor in my dad’s brain began to cause bleeding, which affected his vision. My father went blind about a month before he died. I can remember the day he told me and the emotions that occurred. I could tell my dad was scared; he hated that he couldn’t see. This was the sign that let him know he was nearing the end. My love for my father is unconditional. I reassured him that it was okay because God created me for him; I’ll be his eyes, ears, or whatever he needs; I am at his service. My dad hugged me and told me, “I’m grateful to have a loving daughter like you; your compassion and empathy will always have you far and blessed in life”.

I can’t explain the strength I needed to come home every day knowing that my father was preparing for the next chapter of life. Every day I made sure to walk into my home and be or do whatever my dad needed. I am at peace knowing that every step of the way, my dad felt love and comfort from me. I’m happy I never broke down in front of him, and I’m happy God gave me the strength to be the best caretaker and daughter I could be for him. Although we knew it was going to come, you can never really prepare for death. I’ve told everyone around me that sitting in the pews at a funeral vs. the front row is a completely different experience. The day my dad died, I died as well. The woman I am today is completely different from what people know. My whole view on life, love, finances, etc. has changed, and I’d honestly say for the better. I am my father’s daughter, and his morals, values, and love are forever embedded in me and my mother. This taught me that life is uncontrollable, and the only control I have over it is mine. Once I learned this, I had to let go of everything out of my control and trust God.

“A daughter may outgrow your lap but she’ll never outgrow your heart.”

Sometimes God has plans that we don’t understand or agree with. The only thing we can do is be obedient and trust that everything is for a better purpose. I can’t tell you why my dad was taken from me at the age of 24, but all I can do is heal, love the people who are here for me, and now live my life to represent my dad. Today is the first birthday without him here, and I miss him so much that, as I write this, I am crying. I am sad, but I know I will eventually be okay. Time heals all wounds, but that doesn’t mean I will not have this pain forever. As humans, we learn to bear with pain, so we are able to move on and continue living until it is our time. I believe in the afterlife, and I feel and know my dad is everywhere with me. A bond so unique and special is once in a lifetime, and I’m honored to say Edwin Whittaker was my father. He left an impact on so many lives, and with a heart and humor like his, it doesn’t die. I will make sure to continue the Whittaker legacy and honor my father in ways he would love. I love you, dad; happy 63rd birthday! I hope heaven is good and you’re happy with Grandma. I know I’m heartbroken now, but I will make sure this doesn’t break me but makes me stronger.

“Dad: a daughter’s first love.”

I love you to eternity and back. Yours always, Dre

Tags cancer, death, greiving, hospice, letting go, life, love, pain, transitioning

Self Love and Relationships Wellness and Sex

5 Techniques To Build Your Self-Esteem

Post author By Andreanna Whittaker
Post date 10:00am08
No Comments on 5 Techniques To Build Your Self-Esteem

I have struggled with low self-esteem throughout my life. I always experienced ups and downs in my well being because of how I saw myself. I came to the realization that I had to believe in my own value and worth regardless of what other people thought. Easier said than done, right? Simply admitting that your self-esteem is low and that it has to rise in order to improve your quality of life is all it takes to start improving it. My decision-making and mental state were damaged by all those years of low self-esteem. Knowing my potential helps me find the drive I require to reach my full potential and take on new challenges. Here are some methods I’ve used to improve my self-confidence and sense of self-worth.

Photo by cottonbro on Pexels.com

1.In the bathroom mirror, stick notes with positive affirmations

Writing positive affirmations has helped my self-esteem so much. By placing them on the bathroom mirror, seeing them and reading them, it will eventually reprogram your mind by replacing the negative thoughts. When adding it to your routine, it will lead to the best results in how you perceive yourself.

2. Get up and work out

We all know how exercise is great for your mind and body. It aids in making your body stronger and relieving stress. Depending on the circumstances, body perception can be linked to self-esteem issues. Exercising can help boost confidence by improving your body image. You can control your weight, build stronger bones and muscles, and elevate your mood by exercising.

Photo by Alex Azabache on Pexels.com

3. Make sure you eat healthy

In terms of body image, proper nutrition is important. Your physical well-being is influenced by what you put into your body. To genuinely see effects outside of your body, your workout should consist of 75% diet and 25% activity. Nutrients that support brain function are brought by eating rich foods. It keeps your mind sharp because the brain reacts to what you put into your body.

4. Embrace compliments

Normally when someone compliments me, I go all quiet and shy, but this is something to be proud of! Gratitude and positive feelings are fostered by compliments. You must accept it both inwardly and externally since doing so will strengthen your sense of self-worth and self-assurance. Your brain receives a signal that simulates the exhilarating sensation. Give yourself a pat on the back and acknowledge the compliance.

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5. Set some goals

Setting goals is one of my favorite methods overall. I can always stay focused and exercise self-control when I have goals. I develop new behaviors that help me maintain balance in my life when I establish new goals. Your self-worth and confidence will rise after you stick to a set regimen and see results. This will inspire you to set and accomplish ever-higher goals.

P.S. Building your self-esteem is not a simple 1: 2: 3 procedure or something that just happens. You must fully commit to recognizing yourself and holding yourself to a higher level. It’s fine if my advice doesn’t apply to everyone. Try that, and if it doesn’t work, look up other advice that might. Always remember to be kind to yourself and move forward slowly each day. You are capable of handling this.

Tags confidence, nakedtruth101, self esteem, self love

Self Love and Relationships

5 Ways To Live With Intent And Purpose

Post author By Andreanna Whittaker
Post date 10:00pm08
No Comments on 5 Ways To Live With Intent And Purpose

An intention is a course of action you want to follow. It directs our attitudes, behaviors, and thoughts. An intention can assist you in discovering who you are meant to be and how you are meant to present yourself to the world if you believe that your life purpose is who you are at your core.

Living with purpose and meaning entails leading a more well-balanced existence. It indicates that the things you’re doing are worthwhile for you and aimed at helping you.

As an empath, I have always felt and known my purpose in life. Since my dad’s mother died (Grandma Ismene), I knew my path would be a tough one. From an early age, my grandma knew I was different. Aside from all her other grandkids, my authenticity always stood out. I would write, watch films, and look at nature photography all the time. Every time I was compared to my cousins or friends, I’d always respond, ” That is them and this is me.” “I create my own thoughts and truth.” My grandma said my resistance to order would be challenging, but once I understood my path and purpose, life would be easier.

I learned early on that creativity would bring me stability in life. My mom thought otherwise, as she always pushed me to be in the medical field , but I never saw it. I had settled for being a lawyer or profiler, but my junior year of college changed me. My minor in women’s gender sexality studies had me open to my creativity side while managing to be the President of one of the most important clubs on campus. I soon realized my happiness and interest came from my extracurriculars and my minor.

I realized shortly after graduation during COVID that I tried different fields to see if anything else would catch my interest; it didn’t. I always seem to express my thoughts in some form, whether it be writing, podcasting, or even conversations. I recently told myself I was going to let go and let God lead. I feel powerful launching my first blog, and I can’t wait to see the growth and learning journey. One key to success in life is to always remain a student. Knowledge is power, and the more you know, the more you will rise.

I was made to create without boundaries, regrets, worries, or even second thoughts. I have always lived authentically as me. I used to doubt myself due to all the hate I received for just being myself. It became clear that when you radiate light, there will be people who want to take that away from you. This territory comes along with living your true purpose and chasing after the things that fulfill you. This territory is never an excuse as to why you should stop or slow down. Opinions play no factor in a place of pure truth and authenticity. As long as your intent and purpose are important to you, no one will ever take that light out of you.

Here are five ways to live with more intent and purpose.

1.Disconnect from social media and your phone.Take a break from the social networks and your phone. Go outside for a walk, read a book, etc. Give your mind that break from the digital world’s filters and be in the moment more.

2.Dream: For the life you want, figure out the steps and develop a plan for your dreams to come true.

3.Make goals: Start out with some short-term goals that are achievable for you to reach. If you start out with unreasonable goals, you will find yourself disappointed and defeated. Once you can handle the short-term goals , you’ll be able to work on long-term goals that aid in your purpose.

4. Connect to the network: Getting out of your comfort zone and conversing is the best way to enter rooms and meet people! Put the phone down, go on a solo date, go out with friends. Be more aware of your surroundings while the phone is away and be open to meeting different people. You never know who you run into and the connections you make.

5. Be true to yourself. If you can take one thing from me, and my brand, It’s to be completely yourself. You will never lose being yourself. You’ll be able to tell who actually cares about, is behind, or appreciates your vibe. Additionally, you have the ability to recognize individuals who don’t value or love you and shield your energy from them. Being you will never be difficult, but maintaining a position that isn’t you is considerably more challenging.