Yesterday was a day of gratitude. Not only did we launch ASK JACQUE to extremely positive feedback, but I’ve also begun working on additional writing projects. And I just had a moment where I couldn’t believe this had all come about after simply four months of blogging.
I am deeply appreciative of the opportunities coming my way because I decided to be vulnerable and honest with my readers. So let me tell you about some of the obstacles that I accepted as part of my journey.
The first impediment was time. As a mom with three young children, I am constantly sleep deprived and exhausted. I felt like I barely had time to eat and shower, let alone engage in multiple writing endeavors. But the truth is, we make time for our priorities. My writing has become like breathing now. I feel like if I stopped, my life would suffocate me. My writing has become my greatest outlet and consistent form of self-care.
In addition to time, the second greatest hurdle was my body image. Yep, you read that right. I felt unworthy because of my baby weight. In retrospect, I’m not sure why I thought my weight had any impact on the quality of my writing, but I can tell you that it definitely made me feel inadequate. I can’t tell you how many times I told myself, I’ll start my blog after I’ve lost my weight, so I can post pretty pictures of my family.
The truth is, if you want something, you can begin working towards it now, just as you are. You are enough. I repeat, YOU ARE ENOUGH. You do not need anyone else’s approval to pursue your dreams and goals. And you want to know the best part? Your imperfections and what you consider “deficits” might be exactly what makes you successful. I seem to connect more with my readers when I am completely vulnerable and share my greatest struggles, the ones I used to worry about being judged for.
I’m actually finding the greatest success with my Instagram videos, where I wear absolutely zero makeup and haven’t made it out of my glasses yet. People are telling me they love how raw and real my videos are, and I often tell them, “It takes a lot less effort but a lot more courage.” If I had to try and get all dolled up for every single video, I promise you they would simply never happen. It’s an unrealistic expectation to place on myself at this point in my life.
If you are desperate to change your life and pursue your passion, come as you are. I promise you, you are enough ❤.
Jacqueline Pinchuk 