We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Cheyenne Pajardo . We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Cheyenne below.
Hi Cheyenne, thank you for being such a positive, uplifting person. We’ve noticed that so many of the successful folks we’ve had the good fortune of connecting with have high levels of optimism and so we’d love to hear about your optimism and where you think it comes from.
I believe that optimism is a choice! Human beings have the privilege of choice. We are fortunate enough to choose what we want to wear, want to eat, want to think, and ultimately how we want to feel. Is everyday going to be a walk in the park and go exactly as expected? Absolutely not. BUT! We have the choice in deciding how we are going to react to that. Will we decide to be upset, have an attitude, and sulk? Or will we decide to acknowledge it kind of sucks, find the silver lining, and make the most of it?
For me, my optimism comes from understanding that I am not in control of anything but myself. This includes my feelings and emotions. My optimism comes from knowing that I won’t get it right every time, things won’t go my way, and I may be disappointed. But nonetheless, at least I get to experience it! Life is SO short, and I’d rather spend it finding happiness and making the most out of the situation. I only get to enjoy this version of me in this lifetime once; I plan to smile and shine through it.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Well, hey, y’all! My name is Cheyenne Pajardo. I’m originally from Baltimore, Maryland, relocated to Los Angeles, California, and most recently have landed in Jacksonville, Florida. I’m never in one city for too long, and truly love the opportunities I receive to travel! I’m a HUGE chicken tender connoisseur, but more importantly a mental health advocate, a content creator, and a published author & poet.
Like many, I wear many hats, but I’d love to tell y’all more about me being an author and poet. I entered the world of self publication in October of 2019. My first collection, Chapter 23, consisted of 365 poems ranging from love, breakups, self growth, and every day thoughts. I was nervous to finally share my work with the world. As an artist, I’m sensitive to the way my creativity is perceived and received. I think a lot about whether or not humans will “get it” or if my point will be completely missed. The biggest thing I learned since this publication, though, was that my work will not be for everyone, and that is okay! The beauty of being a human being is that we don’t all have to like or resonate with the same things. We can honor our individuality, while also celebrating someone else’s.
In 2020, I released two more collections, Things Left Unsaid and Chapter 24. Chapter 25 was published in 2021. I most recently published my 5th collection of poetry. DEAR MOMMOM is a collection of 125 haikus dedicated to my late, Japanese grandmother. It encompasses poetry about nature, love, and life after death. This collection was written 2 years prior to her passing, but I knew it would be something I used to help me cope once she left. My hope is that it would serve the same purpose for others.
Writing was always just “something [that] I did.” I truly never imagined having my work on bookshelves, let alone being asked to sign a copy for someone. I’m looking forward to continuing my work as a poet, but also expanding my portfolio to other genres of literature. I would definitely stay tuned, if I were you! I may just write something that resonates with you.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
This is a tough question because I feel like narrowing it down to just three is a challenge! I would say:
1. Remembering that God gave YOU a gift designed and meant for JUST you. There exists no one else who possesses the light He placed within you.
2. It’s a matter of “when.” Stay patient. Your time will not pass you.
3. Remain faithful and resilient.
My advice would be to keep going. It is easy to feel discouraged, to give up, to say “forget it. I don’t want it anymore.” I often feel those things and think those thoughts. It’s HARD when you can visualize what you want and when you’re hungry to succeed. It’s even harder being told “no, not right now” or worse, hearing nothing back after pouring your everything into something. But, if you want something badly enough, you’re going to work for it. You’re going to put your all into it. Your effort may look different day to day, but as long as you put something toward those goals, that’s what counts. I truly believe that anything worth it will take time. It is a marathon, not a sprint. Remain faithful. It will happen when it is supposed to happen.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
My brother.
I’m fortunate to have many, many human beings who love, support, and root for me as I continue to embark on my dreams. My brother, however, has been all in since day one. Since the moment I told him what I wanted to do, what I wanted to accomplish, where I wanted to “end up,” he was all in. He didn’t question me or my abilities. He didn’t tell me I should aim smaller. He didn’t ask me what my backup plan was. All he did was ask me what he could do to assist me in reaching those goals. He challenges my thinking, pushes my creativity, and reminds me that I’m capable when I start to question my abilities.
Everyone needs someone like him in their lives.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.cheyennepajardo.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/cheyennepajardo
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/@CheyennePajardo
Image Credits
Mr. Osorto Photos
