Cream rises...

Have you felt disheartened or discouraged by others? I have worked so hard for my schooling. I am so proud of my accreditation that I will have, and the doors its going to open. I've had a mantra in my head that keeps me motivated.

Cream rises to the top.

Looking around and seeing the hoards of people trying to make their way through the arms race is overwhelming. Its so easy to get stuck in the mindset of blending into the background. I look around and think, what makes me so special? Why do I think I can make difference? This is how my pep talk goes when I get those feelings.

Step 1. Look in the mirror. Dyanna. You are working your ass off for good grades, research hours, etc. that hard work will pay off. You are taking the necessary steps to be the best of the best. You are noticed and admired. Your ideas are ground breaking. You are a mover and a shaker. Those around you will be a much better place because of you.

I know that I am smart. I know that my hard work is noticed. I know that I have the will power and tenacity to create all of my dreams. I don’t have to wait for someone to tell me what's next. I create what I want. I have manifested my future and my dreams. They will come true because of my hard work.

That’s when I take a look around and learn from others. What's working? What's not? The power to create your dreams lies within you. It’s easy to fantasize and say "one day.." but dreams don’t fall out of the sky. They are created. There will be thousands if not millions of people with the same dream, but a majority of them will keep them as dreams. You have to take the first step forward. You have to be the one who creates them. No one will do it for you. Don’t worry about being the best, just worry about you.

Cream rises to the top. Your innovation and uniqueness will set you apart. One person I really idolize for her unique approach is Joanna Gaines. Her niche is rustic farmhouse, loads of shiplap, custom metal art. Is it for everyone? No. She does what she loves, and it has caught on like wildfire. Everyone wants a piece of Magnolia. People flock to Waco, TX by the busloads to see the Silos, and literally get a slice of cake. They all want what Jojo is putting out there.

She has stayed true to her styles, and what she loves. You are just as powerful as Joanna Gaines. You have to believe it, and you have to be it. It’s ok to be afraid just don’t let it stop you. Those that stay true to their values, and keep their authenticity, are the ones that will stand out.

It took me almost 10 years to figure out what I wanted to do. I let the opinions of others stop me from pursuing my dreams. I wanted to study nutrition right after high school. I have always loved making food, and the difference it makes in my life. I also love helping people. I like talking to people, understand them and meeting them at their level. I have had countless ideas of the business I want to create, and the community I want to cultivate.

But when I would present it to someone and they would shoot me down. And like an idiot, I would listen to them! I would let their words sink in and stomp out my dreams. I remember getting myself amped up for school. I would set a plan in motion, look up classes, set a budget and then boom. Just take the wind out of my sails. I was insecure in myself and my dreams, and others had that option. I left that door wide open and people took advantage of it.

When I finally got tired of my working life, I decided I need to do what makes me happy. The money isn't worth the struggle. Honestly. Think about it. I paid off my debt, so I really don’t need much, I could let go of some fears. I am a very rational person. I think of questions like health insurance, and an emergency savings plan, what if… what if … what if. Even with all of those questions looming, I let it go. I used my desire to take the scary step forward. Am I still scared? Absolutely!

Every time it gets hard, and overwhelming, I question myself. Every time I think of how much money its going to take, I question myself. Every time I have to make a choice that causes a serious sacrifice, I question myself. But…. I know I can do it! I can make the hard decisions and I can do what others refuse too. I am the best person for the job! My hard work will pay off.

Because, cream rises to the top.