Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Alise Willis. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alise, 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.
My mother played a huge role in my development of confidence and self-esteem. At an early age, I remember her pouring into my siblings and I. She consistently reminded us that we were special, unique, beautiful, intelligent, and we could do absolutely anything we put our minds to. It’s so important to be uplifted early on. At the time, I don’t think she realized how much it would have an impact on us, but I carried her words with me throughout life. As an adult, I make sure I stay connected to God. My confidence comes from knowing I have Him in my corner, leading me through life, no matter the situation. I know with faith, I can get through anything. Nothing is too big when God is in the picture. I am also a huge believer in speaking into myself. I know what I say, feel, and believe will manifest. I speak positive affirmations to myself on a daily basics. When I have a negative thought or feeling, I quickly divert it to something positive. I listen to different YouTube videos, audiobooks, and podcast of likeminded individuals who keeps me on track.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am an actress, first and foremost. Acting has always been my number one passion. I love bringing different characters to life; playing women completely opposite of who I am. I’m currently a series regular, playing Lacey, on a show called ‘Ruthless’. Its a drama about a cult. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to be on a series for 5 seasons. Even writing that now feels so surreal. I also play the role of Meg in a Netflix limited series called ‘Echoes’- which is a psycho thriller, along with occurring in ‘Coming 2 America’ and a variety of other television credits.
Doing what I love for a living is a huge blessing, to say the least. I feel so fulfilled when I’m on set. Since I was a little girl, I dreamed of becoming an actress. For it to manifest itself into a reality is a dream come true, It has not been an easy journey thus far, There has been plenty of blood, sweat, and tears to get where I am today, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world. I believe we should get up everyday and do what we love. For me, that is what life is truly about.
I also recently embarked on a new journey. As of last year, I started a luxury candle brand called Burn Chic and I couldn’t be more proud of it. Burn Chic is a sophisticated, aromatic candle brand – a fusion of refined style and captivating scents. Each candle is meticulously crafted to embody an essence of luxury, elevating any space with an alluring fragrance along with an elegant design. With sleek and stylish packaging, my candles are more than an accessory; they are a statement of sophistication where each fragrance tells a story. Once again, it has not been an easy journey. I think any entrepreneur will tell you that it is a difficult road to travel, especially in the beginning stages. But I am beyond pleased where I am today, and I look forward to what the future holds for Burn Chic.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
I’d have to say strength, determination and resilience has been a few qualities that has made the most impact in my journey. In the entertainment industry you need all of these traits in order to succeed. It is not an easy journey, in fact, it’s an industry that will eat you up and spit you out if you are not careful. Having strength, determination, and resilience is so important. I found early on that I’ve had to encourage, empower, and uplift myself. Many times, you will have to be your own cheerleader. Don’t depend on anyone else to help you or build you up. If you have support great, but know this is your dream, not theirs. Having thick skin is essential as an artist. You hear no’s more than anything, and it’s easy to break down when you feel like nothing is working out. Being strong in who you know you are, and in your beliefs, will get you so far. You have to have a knowing, that no matter what, you will not give up. You will fight until your dreams come true. No obstacle can or will stand in your way.
My advice on how people can develop and improve their strength, determination, and resilience is just putting one foot in front of the other. It’s really one day at a time. Stay away from the nay-sayers and the dream killers. Do all you can do and don’t beat yourself up because you are not where you want to be. With consistency, drive, and passion you will get there. Don’t give up. Take a break if you must, cry if you must, but dust yourself off and keep going. Even if you feel like nothing is happening or no progress is being made. If you continue on and give it your absolute all, you will succeed.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
I’ve been feeling very overwhelmed lately. The entertainment industry was on strike for 6 months last year, and on top of that, starting a new business has certainly added to my feelings of being overwhelmed. There’s always so much to get done. The first thing I do when I get in that state is get still. Praying and meditating is my go to. Sitting with myself and God helps me tremendously. Breathing and having ease in the body is so important, and often overlooked.
I also tend to take on everything at once. I find when I only focus on what is important this second, not whats important tomorrow or next week, but what is important right now, helps me shed away any unnecessary feelings of anxiety or worry. I’m able to tackle on what I need to do, and I do it more easily and effortlessly. Doing that usually makes any unwanted negative feelings subsides.
Like I already mentioned, speaking kind to myself, affirming myself, and listening to the right people (podcast, videos, audiobooks) and reading the bible, usually lifts me out of my funk.
Contact Info:
- Website: burnchic.com
- Instagram: sheisaliseshaunte and burnchic
- Facebook: Alise Willis and Burn Chic
Image Credits
Photogrsphers Russell Baer Nathalie Gordon
