On November 21st I posted a Facebook live video. It was raw, real and very emotional. The response I received from this video BLEW ME AWAY!! Did it start off sounding like I needed help? Yes. Was that the purpose of that video? Absolutely not. But guess what happened along the way to helping others? I received more love and encouragement and thanks for being open and real and raw and vulnerable. It was not my original intent to receive anything from this post, because I did it for those of you who are struggling with your own issues. Even though my challenge is mostly my body, the source is irrelevant. People struggle every day with weight, body image, feelings of self worth and confidence, with money, relationships (with self, family or spouse), jobs, and the meaning of life.
The POINT to that video (if you want to watch it, it’s here), was that I felt COMPELLED to do it. No lipstick, hair a little messy, glasses on, no bra … but I had to do it right that moment. Not once I had put myself together … but right in that moment. I did to help YOU. Because I know you’re struggling with something. Everyone is. Some are more serious than others … but EVERYONE is fighting a battle of some sort.
I was raised being told “don’t let them see you sweat” … don’t show your emotions unless they’re happy emotions. Don’t let anyone know that you’re struggling. Don’t be open, honest, vulnerable and raw. Well mom … I never was one to listen and do what I was told. Always a rebel, I decided to do what I felt compelled to do, and that was to open up.
A lot of people told me they love me, how beautiful I am inside and out, how much they admired me, which I appreciate beyond words. More importantly, women said thank you for letting them know they’re not alone, that it’s OK to feel the way they do. I had a number of women private message me and share their stories. THAT was the whole purpose of that video. I can’t tell you how much that meant to me.
That experience changed me. It changed how I view myself, my role in this world and how I want people to see me in business. I’ve been blessed to be called “funny, down to earth, laid back, easy going”. I wasn’t always that way and it means the world to me to be described that way now. I’ve learned that it’s OK to be open, honest and vulnerable; to invite them in to see me for who I truly am.
We’re all in this together; we need to open our minds and hearts and support each other. There’s WAY too much negativity in this world.
My challenge to you: show your vulnerability; open your heart and let someone in.
Wishing you an amazing week,
Sandy