Introducing: damn good shorts

It's Summer and we know that once that H E A T hits all we want is the ease of staying cool whilst looking fabulous of course :) You all know that Mama likes to keep it simple so I've gathered a few of my favorite styles to help you stay breezy this summer. 

When it comes to our bodies we all have some sort of negative self-talk that wants to chime in and make us feel that we don't deserve to wear certain things. For me, I went through a phase in my early tweens where I didn’t wear shorts. Growing up in Jamaica I went everywhere with the boys I hung out with. Climbed, slid under, jumped off shit. You know, play. So I have plenty of scars to prove it. I got over that phase because it was hotter than a mofo and I realized that I had to love on me more than anyone else.  We take on that negative story and hold it as TRUTH. The real truth is that when you learn what looks great on you all of that bullshit talk will start unravel. At your own pace, step by step, slowly removing the blinders of the "bad" that you see and revealing the PLENTY of good that exists.

I'm loving on these 3 styles:  These Zara high waisted pink ones are perfect for dressing up or down. They are not too fitted and offer a good drape especially if you have lovely curves. Oh and the price!! STEAL!  Denim shorts tend to all look the same ( insert yawn ;) so it's fun to mix it up a bit and that's exactly what these Madewell styles bring to your style game. They're high-waisted, not too short and comes in a great wash. These lovelies from Vince are a splurge but so worth it. I ordered for a client and she's worn them everywhere!  There are great options out there and you don't have to settle. Let me know if you snag any of these styles and happy Summer!!

Blazer: Rag and Bone   Shorts: Zara    ALL PHOTOS: Fiona Montagne Photography 

These clothes can't buy you love

all photography by Fiona Montagne 

I use to walk into a clothing store and had this overwhelming need to buy something. I've always loved fashion and for years I told myself that this insatiable urge was there to feed my passion. I thought that it was normal to constantly yearn for material things. I had a closet full of clothes and constantly wanted more. It wasn't enough. I eventually realized that my need for stuff was rooted in how I viewed my worth. Acquiring things or in my case shopping gave me temporary validation that I was enough. I had to acknowledge the bullshit I was feeding myself and it was not easy. When I launched my personal styling company www.lauratully.co almost three years ago it made me conscious of what I wanted to bring to the table for myself and the people I serve. I want style and fashion to be accessible, inclusive and serve as a vehicle for the bigger picture of what my clients are working to create. 

I decided to let go of the power I gave to material things and it made room for all of me to show up as is. All the good, bad and in between is worthy. It was a daily chat with myself that triggered the alarm that believing that you are enough will allow you to choose what brings you towards your best self. I edited my negative thoughts, let go of people who didn't serve the good I wanted to build and became intentional about the things I brought into my space. 

Now when I shop for myself and my clients it comes from a very happy place. It's filled with love, intention, and purpose. Like I said before, it's a process. It doesn't happen overnight. I had the chance to listen to life stories shared by men and women who were in their 90's. No one regrets not buying a pair of shoes ;) or wanting more stuff. What they shared was wanting more time to love, savior and enjoy the people who are in their lives. I've decided to choose people. The stuff that comes into my life will serve as a well-chosen addition to the big picture of whatever goodness I want to create. I hope you will do the same #worthy. 

Wear what you love

Photography: Harley Goul

Wearing what you love is a blissful combination of self- expression embodied with whatever kind of sass you want to deliver. It can be a full scream, a whisper or anything inbetween. What matters is that the choice is done on terms that empower you to be your best self. I've fallen prey to wearing styles that I love that didn't look so hot on me. I look back at these photos and all that jumps out is "what the hell was I thinking?" I've learned to merge the knowledge of what works on my body with styles that I love. Finding those parts of your body that you want to celebrate will reward you with a sense of freedom to choose how you show up. You feeling and being comfortable in your skin is your journey. The goal isn’t to be a replica of what you see. It’s acknowledging that today and tomorrow you will choose YOU and that’s a beautiful thing.

Jacket: Nanuska   denim skirt: Grlfnd ( Fancy Pants)    sweater: H&M  Boots: Rag and Bone

It's 2018. Know your worth

Photography: Fiona Montagne 

We are sometimes made to to feel that if we wait long enough somewhere along this journey we’ll find someone or something to make us feel worthy. That the creation of our worth is outside of OUR control. I will say that nothing has taught me more about defining my own sense of value and worth than realizing that it is enough to show up just as I am. We short change ourselves by believing that when we "fill in the blank", then we'll deserve that love, admiration, respect. That only then, we will be worthy. I see worthiness as a declaration of self ownership. It's the vital space you give yourself to believe that even in the most trying moments, you matter.  I'm sharing below what has helped me to write my own narrative of self worth. It's a process that unfolds each day, it's a practice. 

WORDS MATTER, ESPECIALLY THE ONES YOU SAY TO YOURSELF

We've all done it. Whether it's alone in our bedroom, to a friend, a stranger or a passing thought as you glance in a mirror. The use of dismantling words that we say to ourselves or those that we've absorbed from others is destructive. So I want you to stop it!!! (Said in my sass filled Mama tone). You are in the process of creating your best self and that major dinosaur size step starts with the language you use towards yourself. Be kind, respectful and allow yourself the room to love yourself no matter what. 

YOUR TRIBE MATTERS

It's simple. The company you keep should reinforce your worth ( You're amazing!); Motivate you to grow and be challenged ( Get it and you got this!!); Call you out on your bullshit ( Get it together); know when to drop it low and have fun ( Insert dance groove here). Ok the last one isn't necessary but it's certainly recommended ;) Every person that comes into your life adds an element to who you are or what you're becoming. I remember making exhausting efforts to alter what I thought others wanted me to be. It happens. I learned. Now the influence and its effect occurs on my own terms. 

 SHOW OTHERS THAT THEY ARE WORTHY

A kind word or action can have this transformative experience. No matter the size, it can impact how someone is feeling that day, that moment. I don't take for granted what others might be going through. This is what makes our co existing together so powerful. It grants us the permission to affect each other in the most positive way. 

So I'm saying to you that you are wonderful, necessary and full of worth. Go share this with someone else. 

coat: Theory  turtleneck: JCrew  Shoes: Gucci

Winter Wear: warm and stylish coats

Photography: karen E Photos

Stop trying to be a hero and put on a coat that'll keep you warm!! Ok seriously y'all, old man Winter will be here and I just want my babes to be stylishly ready. After experiencing snowmageddon 2016-2017, ughhhhh, I'm leaving no awesome/practical Winter wear stones unturned. This green puffy goodness was a saaweet find at Old Navy. It's under $50 on sale ( yah, you heard me) fleece lined, comes in this yummy color and its CUTE! We can nix looking frumpy in our cozy wears and step out looking fly! Insert any Beyonce song right here and imagine your hair being blown slow motion style in the wind ;)

Old Navy: Coat, vest and stripe tee 

So a few tips to consider when shopping for that coat. Proportions matter. If you're petite, consider a cropped puffer or see if the style comes in petite so that it doesn't overwhelm your frame. If you're curvy, look for a flat quilt ( no bulky coat), nylon or wool style that has a simple and sleek silhouette. I'm currently loving this and this style. Let me know if you snag any of these styles! Stay warm my peeps!

You Need This: Fall Jacket

Bathing in the sunshine in Astoria, Oregon. All photos by the amazing Stephanie Mballo Photography

Let's get right into it my peeps. We know that temperature dip is heading our way. I'm really going to miss Summer but don't you fret there's so much goodness coming your way for Fall and Winter. A jacket that helps me transition the slightly lower temperature is a must! This little number from Madewell certainly does the trick. You will see me in it a lot :) It's light enough to rock a tee but roomy enough to layer a sweater if you need to up the cozy factor. 

Side note: Thank you ALL for the awesome love from my last post! I appreciate each and every one of you! MUAH! See you soon my babes!

This facial expression was because Stephanie thought a car was coming and told me to get out of the way.  This babe has got my back :) We soon realized it was a car reflection in the store window. This trip was such a BLAST!! I'll go anywhere with you Stephanie!!! 

My Afro

All photos by the talented Weston McGhee Photography

Growing up I wanted long, straight hair that gently played on my back when the breeze touched it. My mom refused to let me straighten my curly mane. I would sneak and have by friend Niqua press my hair with a hot comb. If you don't know what that is, it's a comb made of metal that you put on a gas burning stove to heat up. You allow it to cool a bit and then you proceed to burn the shit out of your hair just so that it can be straight. I know. F@$king crazy! I did that because the idea of leaving my hair as is was something I did not see around me. I saw women pressing, perming, blowout styling their hair to look other than what it was naturally meant to be. This is certainly not a bash on those who straighten their hair. I assure you, if i want to mix it up a bit I'll blow out my hair  because I'm a grown woman and I can do what I want ;) Ok, I digress. When we press, straighten or do anything different to alter ourselves, I want it to be built on a road where we are defining our own beauty. 

The thought that black, natural, curly, kinky, unprocessed, left to do what it does best, froed out hair was not reflected to me as beautiful. It's changing. We are seeing a diverse mix of women stepping forward and demanding to be reflected in the images blasted towards us. Why? Because WE EXIST to be seen and heard. So much is happening with how we as women see ourselves. WE are digging deeper towards the AS IS part of ourselves that others thought strange or not enough and allowing it to be seen, fully. It's a real conversation that has to be echoed in a time where filters and editing skews so much of we see as beautiful. What I see now in myself took years of adjusting, filtering and being around women who know how to love themselves. These REAL reflections are what our little girls will witness, giving then the opportunity to SEE that their beauty is right there, as they are, right now. Strange, complicated, knappy hair, unruly, smart, loud, bossy, quiet, driven, defiant, necessary, vulnerable...beautiful AS IS.

Easy Wear: Black and White

In beautiful Cannon Beach, OR with the oh so talented photography skills of Stephanie Mballo Photography

I love a classic black and white outfit. It goes together like the best of opposites. So when it comes to this effortless wear, you can't go wrong. Effortless doesn't have to mean boring or plain. This darling white eyelet top from JCrew adds a little texture to a simple style. Oh and I can't forget to mention these loafers. LOVEEE!!! The patent leather with the stud detail adds a whole lot of edge to this look. Style has the ability to reveal or express who you are in the best way. You can show up feeling confident, fabulous and YES, comfortable. Comfort is a common thread in how I style my clients because Mama knows that if you don't feel good in, you won't wear.  These high waisted wide legged pants from The Gap ( on sale and a screaming deal) are like pajamas. These types of classic looks take the work work work work work ( I had to) out of getting dressed. As always, I've got your style back! MUAH!

Denim Power with Anthropologie

Koolaid happy on the Boise Greenbelt. All images by the talented Karen of Karen E Photography

Cruising along the Boise Greenbelt is one of my favorite parts about living in beautiful Boise, Idaho. We have a ease in our style and denim is a huge part of that effortless wear. I'm a denim lover! Deep, infatuated, serious relationship kind of love :) A great pair of denim hugs your curves in all the right places. It let's you strut your goodness without breaking your stride. It can effortlessly navigate between your ankle boots, those slay me heels and yes, your laid back sneaks! These beauts I'm rocking are the stunner ankle step fray high rise by Mother denim from Anthropologie. I'm always on the hunt for a new style that has a little extra something special that makes them stand out from the denim noise. The frayed step hem detail and the faded black had me at hello! The high waisted keeps everything tucked away neatly( YASS!) with a dose of old school chic. Loving on these beauts or any of the denim styles you see at Anthropologie use code ID20 for $20 off your next jean purchase! YES, I'm doing the happy denim dance with you. 

Fueling Your Style With Confidence

"Show up in something that makes you feel damn good and bring your ALL-IN game!"  LT

Photography: the talented + kind Weston McGhee

When it comes to the process of getting dressed we all have the same intention. To feel great in what we wear. How do we get to that place of having styles in our closet that make us feel great? I'm not gonna bullshit you. It's a process and for some it's a simpler journey. For others, it can be laced with f-bomb dropped moments.  "I'm not tall, skinny, blond, tanned enough etc."  or "I wish my _____ was better."  It's a familiar moment to most of us. There is no magic to owning our confidence. It's a path that's tugged on by misguided social standards that are reverberated by those with good and bad intentions. Inadvertently, these tales become sprinkled through our own self talk making us believe that we are not enough. What does clothing and the process of getting dressed has to do with confidence? For me it's an acknowledgment of my body and how I feel about it and IN IT. The styles we choose will either celebrate our body or shame it. They will either uplift our sense of belonging or make us feel invisible. I want us to choose to see those parts that we love and then work to introduce styles that give those areas a whole lot of love! It doesn't happen overnight.  However, it can start with saying more kind words to ourselves and each other. Our culminated steps and the ability to recognize the me in you will lend to dismantle standards that are far from standard. 

I've got your back. 

dress: H+M

The Perfect Summer Dress

This is my new Summer "go to" dress. With the warmer days heading our way, so is the list of events that we will attend. Finding a great versatile dress that I can rock at a Summer wedding or a dinner party makes the "what to wear" process so much easier. It's breezy, comfortable and can be dressed up or down depending on the shoe pairing. 

I found this beauty at Bohme at the Boise Towne Square Mall and it was a screaming great price. Under $50!! The lace detail gives this dress a luxe look and the contrast collar adds a polish detail. I've already worn this dress a few times and have gotten lots of love when wearing it. You can find similar styles at Francesca's as well. Have a great Summer peeps and I'll be dishing out more Summer style goodness that's pocketbook friendly :) 

It's always a pleasure to stay at the cool and inviting The Society Hotel.

A blissful visit in Portland. All photos taken by the amazing Stephanie of Stephanie Mballo Photography

Simplifying Your Style Without Losing Your Sass

I hear you. You love simple, crisp lines that make you feel sharp, polished and effortlessly pulled together. Your heart does a pitter patter at the sight of color palettes that linger in the ivory, gray, white and black arena. I'm listening and I hear you. I certainly have simplified my style over the years in an effort to have less stuff and more of ONLY what I love. So here's a few tips for my peeps who want a more modern simple look but still want to display a healthy dose of their sass/ swag, personality ( you know what I mean). 

Locate classics with attitude

I've said it before and I'll say it again: date the trends and marry the classics. Classics are those pieces that can withstand the test of time unlike that heavy bang phase I thought was so great in 94. We all learn ;) In finding these pieces, I look for those that have a little extra edge to them. For example an ivory silk blouse with a leather trim, high waisted pencil skirt in blush pink (YASS) or a minimalist trench with a blue pinstripe lining that brings a little happy to a rainy day. 

Choose a WOW piece

Your outfit should have one piece of clothing that does the talking and the rest should just chill out like a good wingwoman.  The talking is this classic stripe button shirt that brings a whimsical dose of play with the embroidered detail in bright green. Come on! It makes me so happy! Paired with simple distressed jeans or you could pair it with dark wash denim. This allows your other more simple pieces to join the party and not look so womp womp womp ;)

Texture and dare I say, color is your friend

Adding elements of texture and color can allow your simply styles to stand on their own. It can be a featherweight cashmere sweater in powder blue or white button down with swiss dots. This allows your outfit to have dimension while still giving you the feel good vibes of a simplified style. 

Style should always be about feeling great in what you wear and that means it needs to reflect who YOU are! Sending you a major hug and good vibes whilst keeping it simply ;)

Why You Might Need Gold Pants

Beautiful blooming mustard leaves in San Juan Capistrano, Ca. All photos taken by the lovely and talented Tiffany of Tiffany J Photography

When I shop for my clients, it's a combination of finding styles that provide a refinement to their wardrobe and also incorporating extra special little pieces along the way.  Whether it's a fur trimmed classic trench or in my case some gold silk pants. It all adds an element of uniqueness that makes fashion what it should be. Your own expression.  Whatever your "gold pants"  heart desires, the point is to step out a bit and play.  Why? Ummm because it's just clothes. You're beautiful, deserving and why the hell not!  So if you desire that lace dress in lavender, the tuxedo inspired suit that vibes modern Katherine Hepburn or a simple silk blouse in a color that makes you feel extra saucy, I say #PURCHASE :) Don't overthink it. Mama will lay down some simple tips. It should fit you well ( lay well, hug you in the right places, no tugging/ pulling), make you feel great and when you look in the mirror, you should want to date yourself! Right!! Get out there and if you need some love on you guidance, you know where to find me. MUAH!

denim vest: JCrew  gold pants: Anthropologie

Credit note: blog cover photo taken by the amazing Jessica of Jlee Photos

Fashion + Flowers

This journey started with an idea. The opportunity to share that idea came along in the most spectacular way. It was fueled by the photography genius of Ben and Joella Photography, the incredible floral designs of Flowers At Will and the flawless makeup by the amazing Blush by Jamie Rose. I wanted the fabrics to sync with the landscape and the flowers to have their own volume. I'm humbled and honored to have been apart of this experience and blessed to see our work published in the beautiful and purpose driven Belong Magazine. I'm learning that our strengths are built from the inside out. It's fed by those we let in. It's then shared because we are all worthy, capable and loved. 

Joella's written words were published in Belong and spoke to the heart of what we wanted to create and why. I've shared those words below along with some of the photos from the photoshoot. Thank you for all of your love, support and encouragement. 

"We are all artists, entrepreneurs, and creators. Our lives have taken us around the country and around the world but now we all call Boise our home. And rather than dream of moving away, we’re are all devoted to building a community of artists right here. So often our work is client based — we all create within the parameters set by those we are serving. Which is what made this project so refreshing and uplifting. It was a collaborative vision designed to bring out the inner creative in all of us. We wanted people to look at these photos and feel transported. To a place that is a little more whimsical and a little more unexpected than daily life. The flower stems were all individually encased in a water capsule to keep them fresh in the desert heat. The flowers were then attached to a corseted top with a zip closure in the back. And it was this idea — a piece of clothing made entirely from florals — that was the foundation of the entire concept. The perforated orchid gloves and lilac clutch were the singular vision of Will Heatter, founder of Flowers at Will. The soft, draping fabrics and blush palette were curated by stylist Laura Tully. And the location, with the rolling sand hills and minimal landscape, were chosen by Ben and Joella to provide scale to the images without competing with the fantastical floral elements. From a photography perspective, the images needed to be the perfect blend of simple and artistic. Medium format film allowed the strong colors of the florals to stand out without washing out the pale sand. And by shooting two images on the same piece of film, there are the double exposure images that feature a silhouette filled with the flowers. Oftentimes, the art of creating needs far less than we think. Instead of focusing on all the things that need to be in place first — I need to live somewhere else, I need more connections, I need more time — focus on just starting. Don’t wait for everything to fall into place, just commit and start small. Work with people who’s vision makes you come alive. Follow your passion. The things you find easy aren’t easy to everyone. They’re your calling. And you just might surprise yourself. And hopefully you surprise a few other people along the way too."  Joella Howard

Conversations With Spring

In a blissful field of blooming mustard leaves in San Juan Capistrano, Ca. All photos taken by the beautiful and talent filled Kate of Kate Noelle Photography

I'm ready to bloom. We are all waiting for that temperature to tip toe its way into the magical numbers that allows us to sound the alarms that it is SPRING! What it does for the flowers, the snow capped mountains, the rivers and streams, it also does for us. It lifts the burden of the cold and fills us with the vigor of warmth and sun filled rays. It makes us believe in the magic of coming alive, the chance to restore what has been settled, awaken or maybe even start anew. This Winter's hard gaze certainly tested our will to the point where we felt that we might break. Yet, here we are, stronger and certainly more equipped with some "how the hell to drive in snow/ice" skills. Am I right?!! ;) 

Spring gives way to not just natures bounty but to ours as well. I see the chance to reset not just my wardrobe ( yes please) but to recharge my mind towards the possibilities of what's to come. It's the chance to step out of the comfort zone and explore "I think I can" to "I can try." Nature's getting ready my dear friends, so are you and I. 

This top (which is actually a swimsuit cover up) brings out a strong dose of happy for me. Best of all, it was gifted by one of my favorite humans. She truly makes this world a better place because she is in it! This Spring, I'm swooning on the little details that make a simple style come alive. The vibrant hot pink tassels adds so much play, I'm not sure how I can wear this and not skip ;)  So this Spring, Mama will be bringing you styles filled with play, ease and the challenge of embracing ourselves just as we are. Let's bloom!! 

Top: Sundress  Shorts: Rag and Bone

Hello, from Laura

I've settled in for the evening and I'm so excited to sit down and write to you. It's been a busy few weeks and I'm reminding myself to pause and catch a breath. Writing to you is certainly a big part of that "breathing space". Our journey together has been filled with so many teachable moments. Where I am is not isolated from where you are. The next few months, Mama will be bringing you more style goodness that celebrates Spring (can I get a hallelujah on that please), tips to simplifying your wardrobe and celebrating changes that come into our lives. We are growing together and I must say it's quite lovely. 

I truly appreciate all of your kind and supportive messages. It means so much to hear your encouragement and I love seeing your input on style ideas you want me to share ( more please). I'm hear to support you! ( Insert major squeeze right here) We create magic when we climb together. Welcome, to the land of "be yourself". I'm thrilled you've joined. 

Top: JCrew     Jeans: Levi     Shoes: Target

All photos by Karen of Karen E Photos

What To Wear Now

a blissful stroll at Edwards Greenhouse

Sometimes all it takes is that special little piece to make an outfit come alive. This floral necklace from JCrew does just that. It adds that extra spark that makes me feel oh so good! That's the whole point my babes, getting dressed in styles that you look and *feel* good in. I like to wear these statement pieces with a simple look that's more casual. It makes the outfit a bit more playful. So those beautiful pieces that you currently have reserved for special occasion are about to be unleashed. Yep, you deserve to feel beautiful and special everyday. Why? Why the hell not!! 

You are always worthy.

Top: Forever21         necklace: JCrew      Denim: H&M    Shoes: Coach

All photos by the talented Karen E Photos 

We speak FUN: Laura Tully Fashion Event Recap!

I'm giving a major a high five and the biggest LOVE to everyone that came out for the 1st Laura Tully Fashion Event! It was such a delight to see each of you and get the opportunity to hug you out!! Thank you so much to Angela and her awesome team at Pottery Barn for the beautiful space and to Nicole from Westward Coffee for the treats and "damn good" coffee. I also want to give a huge "I am so grateful" HUG to Nancy Buffington of Boise Speakwell for guiding me along the last few months to prepare for this "playshop".  Nancy, thank you for working your brilliant magic on me and allowing me to speak to what I love. 

I'm always thinking of what I can do to make my clients lives easier when it comes to getting dressed. I wanted to deliver real style tips/ tools  that can be used to make choosing what we wear more deliberate and of course, fun! This event was made possible because of YOU! Thank you ALL for the amazing love and positive feedback!! 

Thank you to all the fabulous shops that took part in the event and helped to make the swag bags extra amazing! Paperie and Pen,  Shift boutique, Piece Unique, Ava Rae Boutique, Aveda and Blush by Jamie Rose. Click the link to learn more about these awesome spots or better yet, go visit! You'll thank me :)

Yep, you're fabulous swag bag goodness was custom designed by Be Collective. That's right even the bag that holds your swag can have some seriously cute style. 

Mama is filled with a fabulous list of ideas on how to make you look and feel your most amazing self.  So yes, I will definitely host another event! I will let you know as soon as the happy details are set! Enjoy the pictures courtesy of Karen E Photo, you all looked fabulous!

“Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen.” Brené Brown

Color Crush: Blush Tones

Soft blush tones makes me giddy to be a girl. There's something a bit whimsical about wearing tulle as an adult. It allows us to give in to the child like dreamer inside of us. Twirling, is highly encouraged ;)

                                                          Sweater: JCrew   Tulle Skirt: Francescas       

All photos: Karenephoto

My Mental Methods of Embracing Imperfection

"To be nobody but yourself in a world which is doing its best, night and day, to make you everybody else - means to fight the hardest battle which any human being can fight; and never stop fighting."   E.E Cummings

Growing up I remember trying to tame my limbs. My long lanky arms and legs had a mind of their own. I felt as if I was always mentally chasing to catch up to the length they were becoming. The physical attributes of being a praying mantis of sorts, also affected what I thought I should be, in order to handle what my body was trying to become. My bold personality became a bit more timid and I found myself in my teen years trying not to be noticed. It wasn't until much later on in my mid 20's, where I started to get in "good" with who I was trying to become. 

It's so strange to think of that girl then and the women I am now. 

All photos taken by my adorable and talented stepdaughter Maddie :)

I'm extending gratefulness to that awkwardly uncertain girl. I was able to experience some real life lessons that allowed me to stay true to what my parents taught me and some, well, they were learned the hard way. That's the beauty of hindsight, the ability of have this reflective quality on how we see things. As a stepmom to a vibrant and precocious 11 year old daughter, I am even more keenly aware of how we, as a family, encourage and foster her individuality. I wasn't faced with the onslaught of tech devices that allowed me to stray from reality with a swipe or a tap. It's important that I remind, not just myself, but her as well, where true value lies.

The less you try to fit in, the better you fit with yourself.

We can be our worst critics at time. The comparison game can stifle what you are trying to create. So I've found it helpful to operate on "just be who you are" mode and the true, honest, genuine people who want to be in your life or connect with you, will happen. The pretend game will catch up to you very fast, not to mention, acting like someone else is  f-bomb exhausting. It's a process and I promise you, clarity happens. You will gain friends, some friendships will become even stronger and at times, you will have to say goodbye to people who were once in your life. It's all part of the process. So show up, just as you are. 

Social media is not "real life" but you can generate "real connections" from it

Our immediate connection to what others are doing on Fb, IG and all the other social avenues out there can make us feel, well, less connected with our own lives. When you feel this way, revisit my "just be who you are" mode :) I found it best to stick to the best of what social media is intended for. It has the power to fuel positive change, make waves in how we view our world and generate genuine connections. You can meet really amazing, talented and authentic people. Your tribe can extend beyond where you are. So cool, right?! We can develop relationships that before, weren't as easy to foster. 

awkwardness, welcomed.

Flaws can give you wings

Recognizing the imperfect in ourselves can be the catalyst for compassion. Not just towards ourselves but to others as well. Compassion allows me to pause on quick judgements that can easily taint what we are trying to develop. Which are relationships built on integrity, love and anchored with moral grit.   

Influence, kindness

I've learned the most from people who were different from me. That's the cool factor of diversity. You get to pick up bits and pieces of knowledge from those who's experiences have taught them something that differs from yours. To me, that's worth sharing. Our opinions might differ and this is a good thing. We cannot all think the same way. The underlying current of these real-life conversations should come from a place of respect. It's recognizing our ability to influence these vibrant discussions, through kindness. The things that challenges us, at times can be the most difficult. The growth and progress from it, is *so* worth it!

Top: H & M