As much as I am a brand influencer, I also strive to be a life influencer. After being fired from a job right after college, I realized there's more to life than just working a 9-5. Around the same time, I lost my grandfather & got dumped. Hitting rock bottom was probably one of the best things that ever happened to me. WHAT'S BAD FOR YOUR HEART IS GOOD FOR YOUR ART. That's when I first realized, I didn't want to work for anyone. I knew I was very passionate about fitness and with the collision of my love for style, I knew I could make something happened. I already had a blog via Tumblr, but being unemployed helped me have a steady drive. I wanted to completely change my lifestyle in order for me to get to where I need to be.

I knew I had to play smart with my dreams. I still have bills, school loans & rent to pay. So, I looked for another job whilst working on my blog. So I applied, interviewed & got a job at a very established and successful company. If I didn't have my dreams of doing more, this is where I would want to stay lol. Why don't I stay? I see myself getting sucked into CONFORMITY and refuse to settle for something that only fills my pocket & not my soul.

While working on being a successful blogger, people thought I was crazy. My first shoot was with my best friend, and I was pretty damn nervous of the reaction I would get towards people. I even had one anonymous message stating to "get off your high horse" and that was probably the only negative comment I received. It'll happen, so get used to it.

There's a couple of things I learned while reaching my dreams. I believe it applies to everyone no matter what their dreams may be.

1. STOP GIVING A FUCK WHAT OTHER PEOPLE THINK OF YOU

In reality, people are going to judge you regardless. So, do what makes you happy.

Dreamers are filled with inspiration, so sometimes we like to tell family or friends. Not everyone will get it and that's OK. Some people will support you and others will doubt you. Personally, it was hard for me to overcome this, but as time went on I used their doubt as fuel. I learned to not speak of my "unrealistic" dreams, and just show them when it's done. I don't even like telling people my plans anymore, but I'm a very private person, so I guess it's expected.

2. SACRIFICES ARE EXPECTED

You're going to give up several things while working on your goals. My mindset is programmed that if you're not working on your dreams, then there's another person out there who's working 10x harder around the clock for theirs. Instead of clubbing, I went to the bar.. at the gym... lol. Because I was so passionate about making it to the top, I enjoyed spending Friday nights at the gym or working on my blog. I feel like I'm at a competition with myself, and I have to get ahead & be at first place. I only really go out for birthdays and special occasions, other than that..what are we really celebrating?

3. SURROUND YOURSELVES WITH THOSE WHO LIFT YOU UP

After the decision to stop clubbing, I slowly veered my way away from my clubbing friends because it would be the same conversations & vibes week after week. Meet new people, broaden your horizons & keep those you love the closest. Study successful people and don't be afraid to let go of those who don't help you grow. You never know the opportunities that will rise when you meet new people!

I've met some awesome people who inspired me and really opened my perspective. I'm not going to lie, I got comfortable with where I was. I knew I had to snap out of it. Getting to know more about people's stories on how they quit their 9-5 to pursue their dreams made it seem POSSIBLE for me. My photographer who shot these awesome photos in this blog post is one of them! Go David! haha

4. BE STUBBORN ON YOUR GOALS BUT FLEXIBLE ON YOUR METHODS

Your original plans are not set in stone; don't let anyone belittle or lower your goals though! The way you plan on reaching to the top may change. Real life hits and you may need to put your dreams on pause, so expect to fall behind sometimes & know that it's perfectly fine! Just pick up where you left off. Time management is crucial, and it's something that I'm still learning as well.

5. BE SO BUSY FOCUSING ON YOURSELF, YOU DON'T HAVE TIME TO COMPARE YOURSELF WITH OTHERS

You may have a mentor, idol or someone doing the same thing as you that you follow on social media. You see them doing big things, getting good opportunities, etc. Try to be genuinely happy for them instead of being salty! I'm guilty of this too at times, but I constantly remind myself that God has my life designed already. The opportunities will come when I work hard for them. Now, I'm not saying a little healthy competition is bad, but just monitor it because it could mess with your insecurities real quick lol. I can't just sit and scroll through my phone wishing to have someone else's life. Nothing will get done! Focus on yourself, FOR YOURSELF.