Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ashley Cruz. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Ashley, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
I never found my purpose, it was never something I had to look for. Purpose was always within me and I strongly believe it’s within each of us. However, the difference is, will you pursue purpose or continue to pretend that you have to find it?
When I feel joy, courageousness or challenge. That’s how I know, I’m on purpose. This is true for both personal and professional. Whether I’m performing at the Super Bowl or shopping for home decor! There’s purpose within it all.
I first began to let purpose dictate my life in middle school. I owe so much of my self discovery to Bronx Academy of Letters and the teachers who really allowed me the safe space to self discover. In specific, my drama teacher Mr.Clarke. I must admit, I gave that man a hard time. Today, I’ll blame it all on purpose! In Mr.Clarkes class, we mostly studied Shakespeare and after a while, I had enough of telling someone else’s story. I wanted to tell mine, my friends and my peers. Long story short, with the help of my class mates, we forced Mr.Clarke to let us write and perform our own play!
I didn’t know it then but I truly was exercising my right to pursue purpose in a community where it was not celebrated. In that very play, I was doing what I loved to do, perform! I was also starting my journey of healing. I included in the script my reality of living with the void of an absent father. Not the most middle school play material huh? Nonetheless, I am so proud of that young girl and I know she is so proud of the woman answering this very question.
I get to live my dreams every day. Sometimes it’s dancing with super stars, acting on a TV show or movement directing a performance. Other times, it’s through journaling, personal development and connecting with my village. It’s all purpose, I never had to go looking for it. It’s always been within.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Currently, I am still dancing and acting professionally. In addition, I find most of my professional work is as a choreographers assistant, movement director and/or educator for the next generation of dance artists.
I am focused on building a brand that I am proud of. Building a self brand that in-compasses a wide range of my talent, skills and passions. I want my brand to embody not only what I do but who I am.
With that being said, I am launching a rebranded website for CruzwithAshley. This re brand will not only be a place where you can connect with me professionally but it will also be a space where you can work with me 1 on 1. I am launching a purpose mentorship program and purpose privates. I’ve formulated a program that will really encourage individuals to clear the smoke that may be delaying them from living in their purpose!
I plan to continue making my mark in front and behind the camera!
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Communication, self awareness and intentionality have been key in my journey! My advice for those early in their journey is to spend vital time with self and be conscious of who has access to your time outside of that. It is in those moments where you self improve and grow into the best version of yourself!
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When I feel overwhelmed I either go all in, or stop and reset for a later time. I believe in the motto, “if it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you.” However, other times I have to tell myself, “girl relax, progress over perfection!” No matter what, I do my best to be consistent with giving myself grace and trusting in God’s plan for my life!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.cruzwithashley.com
- Instagram: cruzwithashley
- Twitter: cruzwithashley
- Youtube: cruzwithashley
Image Credits
jxjfilms, Aaron King.
