If you’re new here, let me catch you up. In 2023, I quit my teaching job—again—and have been regaining my footing after being evicted from my apartment. I left that job out of frustration with the education system but also as a way to fully commit to my creative pursuits. Or so I thought.
The truth? I was in a self-imposed limbo. I jumped into entrepreneurship with no real plan, never fully committing to my dreams. I didn’t realize that visions take time to brew, and I was afraid of making the “wrong” choice. What if I failed? What if I made a mistake? I kept bouncing between different jobs, none of which really stuck.
When you last saw me, I was living with a friend’s family, navigating odd jobs—fired from both a daycare and a tutoring center. I became a 7th grade science/math guest teacher, Doordashed to pay bills, enrolled in an Educational Preparation Program, wrecked my car, moved in with my aunt, and even got microlocs.
Most recently, I started teaching 5th-grade literacy. It’s been five weeks of navigating this new chapter.
Embracing the Phases of Life
Looking back, I think I’ve been waiting for things to “level out.” Before, I tried to be patient through all these transitions—ups and downs, losses, and growth. I hated working in grocery, but it got me through a season. In hindsight, what if I had embraced that job with more gratitude, knowing it was temporary? What if I now embraced where I am—with belief in where I’m going?
Everything doesn’t have to be perfectly planned out for me to get started. I’ve realized that doing my best now—right where I am—is enough.
Starting Over with a Clearer Vision
I am starting over, but this time, it’s my chance to build with a clearer vision and more dedication. It’s not about perfection. It’s about appreciating where I am and trusting that this moment is laying the groundwork for where I’m meant to go.
Even though life feels bleak sometimes, I must shift my perspective and see that I am exactly where I need to be. There’s a blessing in every phase, even the tough ones.
Reflecting on Hustle Culture and Self-Worth
I often feel like I’m working myself to no end, caught in toxic hustle culture—productivity for the sake of productivity. Comparisons, social media, and consumerism add to the pressure. But what am I really working for?
I want my work to be meaningful. I’ve been caught up in chasing the “big thing”—the big impact. But in doing so, I’ve ignored the significance of the small steps I’ve been taking. I’ve envied people who seem to be doing it all because I’ve been too focused on the end goal to see that progress happens one small step at a time.
Lessons Along the Way
Here are some of the most important lessons I’ve learned so far:
“Our biggest journey in life is overcoming obstacles of self-doubt” (Elana).
Stay optimistic and look at your circumstances from a new perspective.
Remember who you are— even in the most challenging times.
Abundance is everywhere. The illusion of lack can make us feel like we need to do a million things to achieve success. But it’s our mindset that needs to change.
“When the ego isn’t trying, just being, it’s most magnetic,” trusting yourself to just be is a powerful practice (Aaron Doughty).
Moving Forward with Intention
I’m learning to slow down and appreciate where I am. I’ve spent so much time wanting to be somewhere else, doing something more, but now I’m shifting my focus. I realize that life isn’t about having it all figured out—it’s about taking one step at a time. Each day, each decision moves me closer to the life I want.
Facing Fear and Finding Clarity
There has been a deep fear around embracing the fullness of who I am. A fear of being too much or too little, too scattered or too focused. But now I see that fear is just another obstacle to overcome. I’ve made decisions based on what I thought was best, but I’ve also had to accept that sometimes things don’t work out as planned—and that’s okay.
Through all of this, I’m starting to see the fruits of my labor. Processing emotions like envy, fear, and isolation has been painful, but necessary. I’m learning that moving forward through uncertainty is the only way to conquer these feelings.
Where I Stand Now
Here I am. An unfinished but complete work of art. I don’t have all the answers, but I’m committed to moving forward.
I know that every small decision I make today is shaping the life I want tomorrow. It’s not just about the big vision—it’s about the everyday steps, the relationships I nurture, and the trust I build in myself.
I’m ready to embrace the blessings in the present moment, knowing that this journey is mine to shape.
Nashema's Blog 