We were lucky to catch up with Taelor Parker recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Taelor, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
Throughout my life, I’ve often found myself as the “odd” one out. For instance, when I began ballet at the age of 7, I was the only person of color in my classes. Shortly after, as I pursued competitive swimming, I faced a similar situation—again, I was the only biracial person on my club teams until I started high school. Despite these challenges, I achieved great success as a swimmer, proudly being on the varsity team all throughout my high school career. I never allowed the fact that I was the only one who looked like me to hold me back.
As I transitioned into my career as a professional model, navigating the industry as a “midsize” and curvy individual, I realized I had two choices: try to fit into the narrow categories of standard sizes (0-2) or plus size, or embrace my authentic self, even if that meant being the only curvy, midsize model in the room. I chose the latter, and I’m immensely proud of that decision! Recently, I signed with my dream agency, Wilhelmina LA, and I’m thrilled that my agents share the same values that have fueled my success in the industry: the importance of self-acceptance, authenticity, and celebrating what makes me unique.
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’ve faced numerous mental health challenges related to body image as a model, including toxic dieting, over-exercising, and disordered eating. These experiences ultimately led me to a journey of radical self-acceptance. Through it all, I’ve learned that the miracle cure we often seek in life is self-love. When we encounter adversity, hardship, loss, or failure, the key factor in overcoming these challenges is how we treat ourselves—how deeply we love ourselves.
As I began sharing my story on social media and discussing this profound realization over the last year, I discovered countless women who have faced similar struggles in their careers, personal lives, and relationships. This inspired me to create a brand called Self Love Circle. Self Love Circle is an online community aimed at helping women rediscover their inherent worth and value, which is often diminished by a society that lacks understanding and appreciation for femininity. While this community is still in its early stages, I’m excited about the upcoming launches and expansions planned for 2025, as I work alongside fellow women to build this incredible space.
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?
I believe the three most impactful qualities we can cultivate are self-forgiveness, self-love, and resilience. By forgiving ourselves for our mistakes, we grant ourselves the grace we deserve and an opportunity to grow. True self-love allows us to embrace our imperfections and navigate life’s unpredictability without self-punishment, celebrating our ability to fall, pick ourselves back up, and learn. It means recognizing that we deserve love even on our worst days. Resilience is essential, as it empowers us to face challenges with persistence. To truly love and forgive ourselves, we must embody resilience!
For those who are in the early stages of their journey the best advice I have is to understand that success is built on a foundation of mistakes and failures. We are all simply students of life. The more mistakes you make, the more you learn!
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
The most significant gift my parents gave me was the freedom to be myself. Regardless of the path I choose—whether or not it aligns with their expectations—I know I will always have their unconditional love and support. I believe their unwavering acceptance has profoundly shaped my understanding of self-acceptance and its vital role in fostering self-worth.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @teawithtae__, @selflovecircl
Image Credits
Bonnie Nichoalds Abe Bermudez Capture ‘n’ Shoot by Manish
