Cut From A Different Cloth

Time: 1:11am

Location: San Diego 

Hairstyle: Curly side-part ponytail to the back

Nails: Pink & Chrome Set

Wardrobe: Stranger Things Hoodie Juicy Couture Boy Shorts

2024 has proven to be a movie playing out in real time! As the story of my life unfolds, I find myself increasingly aware of how distinct I am from the rest of “the cast”. The importance of being the author of your own narrative cannot be overstated. It’s crucial to maintain control over your story, never allowing others to dictate your worth or identity. Over time, I’ve learned that people, often unable to fully realize their own dreams, will label you as delusional simply because you are fully immersed in the pursuit of yours. 

I occasionally check the digital footprints of others, only to find broken links and half-hearted attempts at success. It’s astonishing to witness how many people approach their goals with such a part-time mentality—yet, somehow, they seem preoccupied with my journey. I’ve spent much of this year coming to terms with the realization that not everyone shares my level of commitment. I’ve been relentless in my work, consistently showing up when others were idle. While they slept, I toiled. My success, to some, may seem undeserved, but they fail to recognize the sacrifices I’ve made. Since I was 21, I’ve missed every holiday, every birthday, every special occasion. My absence from these moments has come at the price of both personal loss and immense growth.

As I continue to rise, I feel a quiet but persistent urging from within to distance myself from those who are not aligned with my vision. It’s painful, because these individuals have been a part of my life for so long, yet it has become undeniable that their resentment toward me is rooted in their inability to embrace what I represent—a reflection of what they fear to become. I stand as both beauty and beast—the one willing to risk everything to break free from the confines of mediocrity. I refuse to accept fake as real, and I will never allow the real to be mistaken for fake.

I am proud of the person I’ve become. Despite my flaws and imperfections, this year stands out as one of my proudest. I’ve grown into a leader with grace, dignity, and respect in my field. I’ve proven to myself—and to others—that I am capable of achieving greatness. The mic has dropped. There is nothing left to prove. The journey is far from over, but with each step, I know I am on a path of continued success and growth. Things will only get better from here.