We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kiana Watson. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kiana below.
Hi Kiana, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
I overcame imposter syndrome by learning how to accept my opportunities. I had to teach myself that I was worthy of whatever came my way. That companies wouldn’t reach out to me and book me if they weren’t looking for ME. Don’t get me wrong, I still have my moments of self doubt. But I just have to remind myself that I am THAT GIRL. It’s all about how self confidence!
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 am a Freelance Model and I work in a hospital as a Phlebotomist. I love both my jobs so much because I get to inspire and help people at the same time! My self confidence flows through my modeling and I get to be my true authentic self. I show people that no matter your size, you can do absolutely anything you put work into. As for phlebotomy, getting your blood drawn is a scary experience for most people. However I have a very bubbly personality and talking my patients through the process and having fun always leaves them with a lasting impression. I definitely feel I have 2 of the most fun jobs out there!
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?
Three qualities you definitely need when modeling are confidence, discipline, and tough skin. You have to be able to show through your images that your confident in what ever it is that youre modeling or even in your work. Discipline when it comes to content creating and knowing your algorithm. And lastly, the hardest part about modeling is rejection. You may not be what every company is looking for. Ive done full day shoots where theyve only used 1 of my pictures and featured everyone else I was with way more. Its not a good feeling, but you just pick yourself up and move on. My biggest advice is don’t give up. Don’t be afraid to start over. I didn’t get here overnight.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
The most impactful thing my mom did for me was support me no matter what. She is the reason I even went to Phlebotomy school. I wasn’t happy with my life and needed a career change. At the time, I was still fairly new in to modeling as well. So I wasn’t making money yet either. She did all this research and asked around for advice for me. She’s always pushed me towards my goals and has been my biggest cheerleader. She’s even helped me shoot pictures that brands have used as advertisements which is so special to me! She’s always let me be my wild, confident, kind, loving self. I can’t thank her enough for that.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Kiwatt
Image Credits
@corrieehammond @ashley_lyn_photography
