introducing my new advice column, Ask L'Oreal!
this writer mama's making moves
#WednesdayWisdom
““I apply what I learn from motherhood and womanhood to my art, and I apply what I learn from my art to my life.” ~ Beyoncé
Morning Musings
As a big sister, giving (often unsolicited) advice has kind of always been my jam! It’s not that I think I know it all (though I’m sure my sister would disagree), but rather I have a genuine desire to help people. I mean, I’m an Enneagram 3 Wing 2, for crying out loud (that’s an Achiever and Helper for those who aren’t in the know). I’m literally hardwired to not only achieve myself, but I looove helping others achieve as well—whether it be in their personal or professional lives. Some of you longtime subscribers may even recall that I briefly included an advice column in this here newsletter.
So when Yahoo approached me about writing a parenting and wellness column, I responded with an enthusiastic yes! As I was leaving my day job and returning to full-time freelance writing a few months ago, I set out to do three things:
Write more profiles (which I accomplished so far with this piece on Sheila Johnson)
Write a column (which you’re about to read
Write a cover story (this also happened recently and I’m so excited to share more with y’all once it’s live!)
The best part is all of these opportunities came to me. I didn’t pitch or seek them out, which I like to think is a testament to the strong body of work I’ve put out over the last decade or so of being a professional journalist. I’m not resting on my laurels by any stretch of the imagination, and it’s nice to to finally be enjoying the fruits of my labor.
This summer I wrote about the power of manifestation and how it’s actually about doing the work and meeting the moment. This is definitely one of those moments. But if I’m being honest, there’s still a twinge of impostor syndrome. After all, I’ve only been parenting for two years; however, I have about 15 years under my belt as a professional experience, so that’s got to count for something!
I hope you enjoy this first installment and that you’ll also ask your own questions. Thank you in advance for your support, and without further ado…here’s Ask L’Oreal!
Dear L'Oreal,
This is pretty gross, but I contracted hand, foot and mouth disease from my toddler, and now I’m losing my nails. What should I do?
— Nail-less in Seattle
ICYMI
I absolutely loved Expectful when I was pregnant and those early postpartum months. The meditations and support groups were truly a lifeline for me. Now that they’ve expanded beyond an app to become a health and news hub, I’m excited to join as a contributor!
Links I Love: Renaissance Edition
Blue Ivy Carter Didn’t Have to Prove Anything on the Renaissance Tour. She Did It Anyway. (ELLE)
Beyoncé the Auteur Takes Center Stage in ‘Renaissance’ (The New York Times)
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Stop Waiting for Perfect Makes the Perfect Gift!
Thank You
A special thank-you to April, Cait, Amanda, Harleen, Megan, Najja, Jessica, Priti, Cat, Jenna, Mallory, Rachel, Angel, Sarah, Camesha, Vix, Anna, Stephanie, Dominique, Tiffany, Emily, Mabinty, Lindsey, Casey, Lynnae, Dani, Amanda, Raina, Abigail and Sharon for becoming paid subscribers and helping to fuel this newsletter. I truly appreciate your support!
Congrats on the new column (nearly every writer’s dream!) and love the piece for Expectful! So good!