Sheronisa

4. How have you conquered it?

I believe so, to an extent. As I grow older, I have learnt to be patient , kind and loving of  myself, be content and grateful in whatever season I’m in. My faith keeps me grounded and my trust in God keeps me going otherwise I wouldn’t be where I am today.

4. I believe we live in a world that is riddled with what I call the comparison pandemic that magnifies our inadequacies rather than magnify what we already have. How do you relate to this comparison pandemic?

In the age of social media, the magnifying glass has grown so much, and I do get envious sometimes, wishing for this and that but who wouldn’t. I however always remind myself that we see what the other person wants us to see and keep it moving. 

6. What do you practice if you do, to magnify what you have rather than contribute to the “I am not good enough narrative”?

I do a ‘journey check’ on a regular basis and remind myself where I was and where I am today. This could be emotionally, spiritually, mentally, and materialistic. It’s a compass of what I have achieved, want to achieve, aspire to be, or do. I continuously strive to show up as the best version of myself and atone myself where I feel I have failed “especially when it comes to parenting”

7. Research has shown that women suffer from “craving of being liked” as compared to men who will rock up and do what needs to be done without considering repercussions, have you experienced that? The likability challenge. And how have you dealt with it?

This is a constant challenge; I mean who doesn’t want to be liked (I wonder). I think for me I am still unlearning the “craving of being liked”, I tend to put other people’s needs before myself 

I have been there too and it’s okay. 

Find yourself that one person that can hold you accountable in any aspect of your life, find your tribe to get you through the rough days. Be patient and kind with yourself, heal and forgive if you have to, and remember not everyone experiences life the same way. Be willing to learn, unlearn, and fall in love with yourself and you shall see the pieces fall into place one day at a time.

9. What is the one thing that you live by that helps you snap out of feeling inadequate?

Talking to my siblings always helps and worship music tends to get me going and is always a great reminder that I am loved just as I am. 

10. What does courage mean to you?

Courage means showing up every day for something or someone even at your lowest and being the best version of yourself when you don’t have it in you to be. It is dragging yourself out of the basement or depression and recognizing you need help and seeking it…even if it's just talking to a trusted friend or family member.

11. What have you learnt in your journey that has contributed to your journey to enough?

Forgiveness keeps your heart lighter. I have learnt to acknowledge and appreciate myself more through the good and bad days.

12. What would you say to your younger self?

Girl, your life isn’t what you think it’s going to be, but man…trust the process, most of all stay near to God, pray, believe, cry if you have to…you are going to be amazzzed, proud even of the WOMAN you turn out to be, she is still learning and she is the strongest person I know.

My hope is that women around the world are going to lift each other up, hold space for each other and also recognize the need for creating safe spaces and circles for vulnerability. This movement is going to be relatable, relevant, authentic and lives are going to change.