Being brave isn’t always easy.  Time and time again I have held myself back or even stood in my own way of an opportunity simply because I was afraid of failing.  Like not applying for that job or leadership role… or not showing up to a casting call or asking a boy out because you were afraid of denial.  At one point I was even afraid to take opportunities because I felt like if I just lost a few pounds then it would be the “right time.”  But the right time is now… and it takes a brave girl to see that.

Take this blog for instance… I had been wanting to start it for over a year before I finally gained the courage to take the plunge.  It got to the point where I had to sit myself down and tell myself that it’s ok if it fails or no one likes or reads it… the important thing is that I tried and I did it for me.  And you know what, it’s exhausting living a life full of regrets and “what ifs.”  It’s better to put on that brave hat feel like you gave it your all.

So my goal this year (and every year) is to not be afraid to put myself out there.  To take opportunities (and risks) as they come.  And to be myself and feel confident about that.

Ok so you might be asking yourself where this is coming from… well, one of my favorite iconic brands, Keds, happens to be doing some really important work by encouraging girls to dream big and be brave in their everyday lives through their Brave Hearts campaign.  It’s meant to inspire girls to live fearlessly and be optimistic with a high head and an open heart.  

When I first sat down with Keds and heard about this campaign it really spoke to me because I think it’s so important to encourage girls (of all ages) to be brave.  To love yourself, stand up for yourself, accept others and take risks.  

Something that really spoke to me though was that in this age of the internet, and perfectly pretty images on Pinterest and Instagram, it’s so easy to get wrapped up in comparing yourself or your life and wonder how on earth you could ever measure up.  

I used to wonder, “how come my cakes or parties don’t look that pretty?”  Or, “how come my life isn’t that perfect… hers seems so magical on her Instagram.”  

But it’s important to remember to

 never measure yourself on someone else’s yardstick.  

I encourage you all to challenge yourself and take chances… be happy, love yourself, 

try something that scares you, mess up, hug people, smile, apologize, apply for that job, ask that guy out, start a blog, seize the moment… and l

ead your life with a brave heart.

Keds Sneakers c/o  //  Forever 21 Top  //  Bel & Beau Skirt c/o (see the Pink Maxi Skirt here)  //  Bebe Jacket (old, LOVING this Cropped Leather Jacket)  //  Chanel Bag  //  Celine Sunglasses via Nordstrom  // Essie Nails

What are you waiting for?  Be brave and declare your brave goal on bravehearts.com and you could win a pair of Keds!

Thanks so much for taking the time to stop by and read my blog.  Your support truly means the world to me and without it, I probably wouldn’t be doing what I am at this moment.  And I love what I am doing, so thank you.