Instead of write about what I wore on my last day in Paris at Place Vendome (a McQ by McQueen dress and Alice + Olivia boots), I wanted to reflect on conquering your shortcomings.
Yesterday just might’ve been my busiest day EVER!! It started at 10 am with a shoot for Colgate Optic White (I’m a brand ambassador and a member of their designer smile squad!).
After werking on set until about 6 pm, I Ubered over to a shoot for BET/Centric. I honestly didn’t know what the shoot was about until I got there and found out I was named one Centric and Upscale Magazine’s 16 Women to Watch in 2016!
I’d like to say I delivered my most rousing performance, but if I said that, I’d be lying. I was tired. My brain and mouth went haywire. The producers even stopped after part 1 of my interview to tell me to breathe, give more energy, show more personality. I wanted to do well, but I was overthinking it…the perfectionist (me) was far from perfect, and I was disappointed. But I had to put things in perspective: this is just the beginning of many TV spots where I’m being interviewed (and not the other way around), and I will surely get better with time.
My choices were either to retreat in defeat or push forward! I even said during my interview that one of the best pieces of advice I ever received from a woman in the industry was to “Keep on Keepin On!” And I’ll do just that.
During the interview process, I reminisced on those days when only 30 people were checking for FBD and when the only comments came from my family and friends. 10 years in, and so much has changed (Now I’m a woman to watch!).
With all new ventures, there will be some bumps in the road. There will be moments you feel discouraged and think your dreams are crazy. You may think, “Maybe this isn’t meant for me? Who am I to dare to shine?”
Shine on.
Noone is perfect. We all fail or fall short. The true measure of success is what you do when you fall. Don’t throw up the white flag. Dust yourself off, and try, try again.
Love and Light!
*But a few notes when you go to a shoot (so you’re always prepared):
1. Ask what the shoot is about (duh, right)?
2. If you’re being interviewed, know what questions you’ll be asked in advance. Sometimes people don’t want to tell you, but try to get the best idea possible if you’re not good at thinking on your feet (me).
3. If there is no stylist on set, bring as many options as possible, along with double sided tape, pins, shapewear, lint rollers, etc, etc.
4. If you have the questions in advance, go over them with your friend or an acting coach (I have a great rec if you need one).
5. Be yourself! Smile, and know: you got this!!
