We were lucky to catch up with LoveLi recently and have shared our conversation below.
LoveLi, sincerely appreciate your selflessness in agreeing to discuss your mental health journey and how you overcame and persisted despite the challenges. Please share with our readers how you overcame. For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.
Growing up as a teenager, I found myself engulfed in an environment where self-harm was distressingly normalized. It became my unfortunate remedy, a desperate attempt to navigate through a whirlwind of emotions for which I felt ill-equipped to handle in a healthy manner. Amidst this struggle, I grappled not only with my own internal turmoil but also with the sense of being different and ostracized within my family dynamic.
Being the queer, depressed, middle child in a family of nine children compounded the challenges I faced. It felt as though those around me were unable to comprehend the depths of my struggles, leaving me feeling profoundly isolated and misunderstood. The cycle of self-harm and depression spiraled further, leading to multiple suicide attempts and a pervasive sense of unworthiness.
In those darkest moments, I lost sight of my self-confidence, purpose, and ability to receive love. I became entrenched in the belief that I was inherently flawed, deserving of every negative circumstance that befell me. Yet, amidst the chaos, a flicker of hope emerged.
Through failed attempts to end my life, I began to confront the possibility that perhaps there was a greater purpose for my existence. It was as if God was urging me to recognize my inherent worth and the potential I possessed. Gradually, I came to understand that creativity was not only my refuge but also a profound gift bestowed upon me.
Art became my ultimate companion, guiding me through some of my darkest moments and offering solace when all else seemed lost. It was through the creative process that I found a means of expression, a way to externalize the tumultuous emotions raging within me. In each stroke of the brush or lyrical verse penned, I discovered a semblance of peace and clarity.
As I mature, so too do my beliefs in the sanctity of life and the inherent value of my own story. I realize that my experiences, however painful, are not without purpose. They serve as a testament to resilience, a beacon of hope for others who may find themselves navigating similar struggles.
Despite the challenges I face, I’ve come to understand that life itself is a gift, a precious opportunity to embrace the journey and fulfill one’s divine purpose. With each passing day, I am reminded of the importance of sharing my heart and vulnerability with the world, knowing that in doing so, I can inspire others to find strength in their own struggles.
It os not a journey I undertake alone. Along the way, I have the unwavering support of loved ones who refuse to let me succumb to the darkness. When they falter, my art becomes my steadfast companion, a reminder that even in the depths of despair, I am never truly alone.
Through it all, I have come to recognize that my faith has been the guiding force that has sustained me. It is a source of unwavering strength, a reminder that even in my darkest moments, God has never abandoned me. With each new day, I am filled with a renewed sense of purpose, knowing that my journey is far from over.
So, I persist. Not out of a sense of obligation or duty, but out of a profound belief that my story deserves to be heard. My heart, with all its scars and vulnerabilities, yearns to be shared with the world. And in that sharing, I find redemption, healing, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am a multi-dimensional creative, finding expression through sketching, painting, and exploring digital art and tattooing. Music is another avenue where I shine as a singer/songwriter. I consider my music to be a real-time journal of my experiences. What sets my work apart is its authenticity; it’s simply a reflection of my vulnerability and a challenge to the stigma of always needing to appear strong. My mission is to show up consistently, offering a space for others to be real about their own struggles and experiences. While there may not be new releases at the moment, I am gearing up to unveil some fresh gems both visually and musically in 2024. In the meantime, my first album, ’30 days of healing’ by LoveLi, is available on all streaming platforms for those seeking a glimpse into my artistic journey.
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?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge stand out as profoundly impactful:
1. Just Do It Mentality: One of the most valuable lessons I learned was from a boss who emphasized the importance of taking action and refining along the way. In today’s world, we have the luxury of refining and revising our work as many times as necessary. Don’t hesitate to put your work out there for others to see, if that aligns with your goals. Embrace the journey of growth and improvement, allowing others to witness your evolution over time.
Advice: For those starting their journey, don’t wait for perfection before sharing your work. Start now, and refine as you go. Each iteration will bring you closer to your desired outcome. Embrace the process of improvement and view each step as an opportunity to learn and grow.
2. Confidence in Your Craft: Believing in the value of your work is essential for garnering the respect and attention it deserves. Recognize that the gifts and talents you possess were bestowed upon you for a reason, with a specific intention and purpose. Trust in your abilities, despite any external doubts or criticisms. Listen to the small still voice within your heart, rather than succumbing to the negative voices of doubt.
Advice: Cultivate a sense of confidence in your creative endeavors. Remind yourself of the unique perspective and talents you bring to the table. Stay true to your vision and let your authenticity shine through in your work. Surround yourself with supportive individuals who uplift and encourage your creative pursuits.
3. Self-Care and Balance: Balancing the demands of creative pursuits with self-care is crucial for sustained growth and success. While pursuing your passions and honing your craft, it’s easy to become consumed by the process and neglect your well-being. Recognize that maintaining balance is essential for long-term fulfillment and productivity.
Advice: Prioritize self-care and establish boundaries to maintain a healthy balance between your creative endeavors and personal well-being. Incorporate practices such as mindfulness, exercise, and rest into your routine to recharge and replenish your energy. Remember that your worth is not solely defined by your productivity, and it’s okay to take breaks and prioritize your mental and physical health.
By embodying these qualities and following this advice, individuals early in their creative journey can navigate challenges with resilience, confidence, and self-awareness, ultimately realizing their full potential and achieving their goals.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
Yes, I’m actively seeking opportunities to partner and collaborate, particularly in the realms of music and art. I’m eager to connect with fellow singers, songwriters, painters, and tattoo artists to exchange ideas, learn from one another, and create together. If you’re open to collaboration, please feel free to reach out to me via social media on Instagram @_its.loveli_ or email me directly at its.lovelirecords@gmail.com. I’m excited to explore potential collaborations and see where our collective creativity takes us!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/itsloveli?fbclid=PAAaaJUgvarpxAXJq1qYa0r2GvvMUlxN1Md5XmpCK4uoQRj90-1OB9aqisCzQ_aem_Aev8VDFDTKjIbKrkhau0F4oAdYPWCA0Z9exGH8e3dvsRWovYdj_yAPg8mKw0FC-rUgE
- Instagram: _its.loveli_
