I am, The Misunderstood Afro Muslimah.

This past year has allowed me to bet on myself and figure out what I want selfishly for my life. And that is precisely what I did; I fell in love with myself. I have always viewed my life as a chess board, always considering other players’ emotions and moods before my own, but that is done. I realized that isn’t healthy and causing unnecessary stress in my life. Instead, it was time for me to show up for myself more. I am the queen of my life, and y’all know the queen is the most powerful piece on the board.

I quit my job and became The Misunderstood Afro-Muslimah full-time. I stepped out of my comfort zone and began to create videos, promote, and advocate for my brand. I dived head first into the full-time creator lifestyle and needed to prepare for how much work it takes to build a brand. Of course, creating content is one thing, but I needed to develop an unwavering belief in myself. Y’all, I did what I do best: fake it until I made it. I begin every morning with affirmations or a motivational speech and challenge myself to pursue every idea that pops into my head. After a couple of months, it became part of my routine, and I could feel my self-esteem and self-worth flourish, and so did my opportunities.

Although some friendships ended this year, I wasn’t the only one purifying my air. I had to mourn relationships that I thought would last a lifetime and deal with my triggered abandonment issues. But I finally developed such a deep love for myself that I realized people come and go, but I will always have me. And as much as I hate the duality of life, there is no escaping it; with the good also comes the bad. Life isn’t going to get easier; I need to get better.

As I enter my Twenty-Great year, I have the confidence and tenacity to achieve all my goals. I am loved and blessed beyond any heartache and disappointment I may have felt, and I am grateful for all the life lessons. I have lived in survival mode way too long, and this is my thriving era.

And most importantly, I am The Misunderstood Afro Muslimah, and I am ready to flourish.