We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ireana Walker. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ireana below.
Ireana, so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.
I would say my family had a lot to do with it. Growing my parents and my grandparents always spoke positivity in my siblings and I. My grandmother would always say walk with your head held high. From there I kept their words and voices in my head. As a plus size woman, some people think well who do you think and I’m over here like I know who I am regardless. of my size.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
Back in 2016 I re-launched my blog Xoxo,I.Joelle where I share my love of fashion, beauty, lifestyle etc. Over the years my blog and brand has granted me so many amazing opportunities I would’ve never even imagined. Fast forward to now I’m still here working with brands, creating content and having fun while doing it when I first started.
When I’m not creating content for my 5 to 9, I am a Elementary Computer Lab Teacher. I love my job because I’m able to tie in my creativity and show up at work I like do for my social media platforms.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
`If you are looking to start creating content this day and age there are a few things you should keep in mind.
Being authentic is a major key, as long as I’ve been on this journey I’ve see so many people come and go. One of the reasons people quit their content creation journey is because their trying to mimic what they see other people in their niche do. They feel like that have to keep with the latest trends or the latest “influencer”. I believe that you can be trendy but don’t forget to be authentic and remain yourself.
Keeping an open mind is important on this journey. The content creation scene has changed so much since I began but one thing that I can say has kept me afloat keeping an open mind. Adapting to the changes while still remaining Ireana. Be willing to step out your comfort zone and try new things. There plenty I showed up to blogger event myself and I was so nervous. It taught me how to walk in a room like I belonged there and own it.
Believe in yourself ! Look I know this sounds cliche but there are going to be times when doubt kicks in. Then comes that Imposter Syndrome say you’re not good enough to do whatever it is. You may also find yourself feeling like you’re the only who believes in your dream and the people you thought would support you don’t . It’s important to know that no matter who supports you and doubt may kick in that you believe that you can make it happen.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When I feel overwhelmed with creating content the best thing to do is just take break. Like the quote says ” Learn to rest not quit.”
Contact Info:
- Website: www.xoxoijoelle.com
- Instagram: @xoxoijoelle
Image Credits
Ebony Ellis Photography (for the beach photo)
