We recently connected with Jacque Njeri and have shared our conversation below.
Jacque, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Imposter syndrome has been a constant ebb and flow in my career journey. Some days, I ride the wave of confidence, while on others, doubt washes over me. In those moments, I remind myself to trust my instincts, avoid comparisons, and focus on my unique creative path. Embracing my perspective has given me the courage to showcase and explore unconventional ideas boldly. The support from my network has also been invaluable in reinforcing my pursuit of goals as I navigate through various challenges. My advice to creatives, especially? Keep putting in the work and trusting the process.
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?
I’m a visual artist, graphic design consultant, and advocate for mental wellness, passionate about blending creativity with functionality to produce impactful visual experiences. What excites me most is the myriad of opportunities available for creatives right now, offering endless possibilities for innovation and expression. I believe that self-care is a crucial tool for promoting personal mental wellness, which in turn enhances creativity. I strive to integrate this belief into my practice, work, and advocacy.
Recently, I launched a new art series titled A.EYE, a play on “A.I.” In this series, I incorporate an exaggerated eye into my compositions, inviting viewers to explore the themes in my work. A.EYE represents a stylistic maturation, blending creative elements from my previous projects into a cohesive whole. This project embodies my commitment to evolving as an artist and continuously exploring new frontiers.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey, I’ve found that embracing a curious mindset of continuous learning has been incredibly helpful in keeping me adaptable and open to new opportunities. By remaining curious, I’ve been able to expand my skills, explore different paths, and approach challenges with a growth mindset, ultimately leading to personal and professional growth. Staying true to my authentic self has been invaluable in guiding my decisions and keeping me aligned with my values and passions.
Counterintuitively, navigating through periods of depression has taught me resilience, empathy, and the importance of mental health. Prioritizing self-care has helped me cope with challenges and find an outlet through creative expression.
For those starting their journey, It’s crucial to cultivate self-awareness, practice self-compassion, and seek help when necessary. Secondly, staying open-minded and curious is essential in today’s rapidly changing world. Embrace new ideas, explore different perspectives, and be willing to step outside your comfort zone. Thirdly, focus on developing a diverse skill set while also honing your strengths. Strive for a balance between expanding your knowledge and deepening your expertise in areas that resonate with you. Most importantly, prioritizing mental health as a foundational pillar of personal and professional success.
Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
“Shoe Dog” by Phil Knight left a profound impact on me, shaping my belief in personal development and growth.
The storytelling doesn’t just inform but takes you on Knights exhilarating journey that resonated deeply with me. What stood out most was Knight’s unwavering courage in pursuing his dream with Nike, despite facing uncertainty and monumental setbacks. It served as a powerful reminder for me to take bold leaps toward my own aspirations. Knight’s dedication to aligning his work with his passions and values inspired me to do the same, recognizing that this alignment is key to finding both motivation and fulfillment. Through his resilience and unwavering spirit, I learned that grit is the defining ingredient for overcoming obstacles and reaching success. “Shoe Dog” ignited a fire within me, fueling my determination to pursue my dreams with courage and authenticity.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jacquenjeri.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jacquenjerii
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacquenjeri
Image Credits
Profile Image by Kathomi Maorwe
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