Slay Now, Reap Later

Listening to a Bishop TD Jakes sermon while cleaning the other day, I got some valuable information that resonated with me.  Jakes was emphasizing the importance of staying focused on your purpose when he made this statement, "What you slay in your 30s, you eat in your 50s."  It made perfect sense.  I am aware of the "reap what you sow" saying but for some reason this statement stood out.  I applied his words to almost every aspect of my life.  I thought about how what I eat now can affect my health down the line, how I groom myself and exercise now can determine my appearance for years to come, how working on my mindset can affect my peace and stress levels when I'm older, how achieving the bulk of my goals now can set me up for success later, and how investing and saving my money during these times can give me the financial stability I desire years from now.  

Sometimes we get so caught up in just living, and we don't realize we are making decisions we may carry with us for years to come.  Yes all we have is the moment and we mustn't worry about the future; however, preparing for it doesn't hurt us at all.  I've seen so many people who bear the results of not so good choices written all over them, and it's certainly not cute.  Yes some stuff like not resting, eating unhealthy foods, being wasteful with our funds, and skipping out on exercising seems harmless to do now, but how will that affect us in 20 years?  

Let's make sure we get it together today so the results are favorable tomorrow.  

Currently Slaying,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Polka Dot Off-the-Shoulder Top // Tiny Bow Pearl Necklace

You Don't Need New Clothes, Just New Ideas...

I was once the girl who would always claim she had nothing to wear when it came time to get dressed for an occasion.  I would often go out and buy a new clothing item every time I was invited to an event.  Then I got more creative when it came to putting together an outfit and my "I have nothing to wear" days became few and far between. 

Each piece in the outfit on this post is old.  I was looking for something to wear one day so I began piecing things together.  I found an oversize shirt that I made into an off-the-shoulder top by tying it up, a black and white skirt to offset the the top, and yellow pumps to make the entire look pop. 

Looking good doesn't have to be expensive.  All you need are a few staple pieces and a bit of creativity.  I'm sure there are many pieces in your closet that can be transformed or mixed and matched.  For instance, if you have long dress with a split or a short skater dress, wear it over some jeans and add some heels to jazz up the look.  If you have a huge t-shirt, tie it up to create an off-the-shoulder top or wear it alone as a dress with your favorite sneakers. 

These days almost anything goes with fashion.  So before you go shopping next time, see what you can dig up in your stash.  There's nothing that a few staple pieces and a little originality can't solve when it comes to style.   

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details:  Oversize Top (old, similar here) // Black & White Skirt (old) // Yellow Pumps

Positive People Have Negative Moments

It happens.  Positive people aren't always optimistic.  We are humans, and all humans experience doubt at times.  I had an overwhelming moment the other day.  I tried my best to hide it, but it seeped through my pores and came bursting out through my emotions.  I couldn't hold it in any longer.  After my vulnerable episode, I thought about what my mother once said to me when I was young and in the middle of performing one of my Oscar-worthy, crying fits that I was infamous for.  There I was sprawled out on the floor like someone had attempted to take my last breath and my mother came in the room, casually leaned on the door and said, "I'm going to let you have your moment, but after the moment, get yourself together."  I was astonished.  I only have a moment to throw my fit???  Okay....so I got the fit out of my system, then went on like the day was never interrupted by my childish antics. And to this day, that is my method.  Throw the fit (privately), get it out of my system, then get myself together.  

Yes, we positive people get in our heads and feelings at times, but the difference between us and negative people is - WE DON'T WALLOW IN IT.  We have our moments and in the midst of our moments, something in us says, "wait a minute, this is not how we operate."  And then we immediately correct our thoughts and redirect energy.  Being a positive person doesn't mean life won't catch you off guard.  However, when positivity is your mode of operation,  you will always go back to that place.  Think about it, you can put clothes on a dog and he or she will wear them for a while, but at some point, most dogs begin to roll around in the clothing in an attempt to get out of them.  That's because their default setting is that of a dog.  This should be the same with a positive mindset.  Life can throw us things that will make us go absolutely crazy, but if positivity is our default setting then we will eventually bounce back into that mode. 

So whatever negative moment you are having or have had, let it be.  Just make sure you get yourself together after that moment.  Get back to your default setting. 

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Vintage Floral Jumper // Heels

Photo Credit: @brukavin.visuals

The Custom Floral Blazer

I've been fixated on vintage fashion and custom pieces.  Regular fashion is okay, but it hasn't been that exciting to me lately.  Everything is beginning to look the same when it comes to style.  Originality seems to be a thing of the past.  Clothing brands are creating the same looks and it's uninspiring. 

I had an event to attend this past Saturday, and the requested attire was something floral, pink, or white.  I went to a couple of stores to see what was popping and quickly discovered that nothing was actually popping.  I pondered for days over what my outfit would be then remembered I knew of an up and coming brand that possessed some lovely custom pieces.  I anxioulsy contacted the designer of Magnolia Silks, told her my situation, and within a week and a half this floral beauty was at my doorstep.  See below.

I fell hard for this blazer as soon as I tried it on.  It fits me perfectly!  The material was of high quality, and it even had real pockets on it.  Classic!  I styled this blazer with some white trouser and nude heels.  I kept my accessories to a minimum and let the blazer make the statement. 

After wearing this blazer, I now want everything custom made!! What are your thoughts on some of the fashion being offered these days? 

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details // Floral Blazer // White Trousers // Rose clutch

Still Kicking in My Casual Bodycon Dress + Red Leather Chucks

I was having a conversation with my 93 year old grandmother the other day, and I asked her how she was doing.  Her response was, "I'm still kicking....just not as high."  I giggled.  And I told her as long as she is kicking, then everything is flowing.  I then thought about how I've been feeling a little uninspired and mentally tired lately, but despite those feelings I still get up and do what I have to do.  Sometimes I get a little hard on myself when I feel like I haven't accomplished as much as I think I should.  But then I'm reminded that as long as I'm pushing myself to do something, even if it's small, then it's all good.  

The words my grandmother spoke resonated with me.  It reminded me that there will be times I won't be at my best - my kicks will be lower than usual, and that is totally okay.  As long as I am still kicking, then I am still in the game - and that is half the battle.  

Keep kicking my people...   

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Bodycon Casual Dress // Red Leather Converse Tennis

Larry Your Days!

Some friends and I accompanied a friend to his music performance the other weekend.  When we got there the scene was cool.  It was a traditional New Orleans music venue complete with antique decor, drunk and happy patrons, and intense sounds coming from the speakers.  Before our friend went on stage, we all sat down and watched the crowd enjoy the vibe.  There was this one particular guy who stood by himself close to the stage seeming to be eagerly awaiting the next performance.  He had his hands in his pockets, and he would bounce up and down every so often indicating that he was excited for what was to come.  He captured me and my friends' attention.  As soon as my friend went on stage and the band dropped the first sound, Larry (as we endearingly named him at the end of the night) excitedly jumped in the air holding his hands out as if he held a guitar, hit the ground, and started wildly dancing all over the floor like he was the only one in the room!  He performed uncontrollable moves to every song my friend rapped and the band played.  It was amazing!  He acted as if no one was watching, and I was so stunned that I began splitting my attention between my friend on the stage and my new friend Larry!  

While the crowd was obviously entertained by Larry,  I was both entertained and in awe.  I admired his confidence and courage. No matter who was watching or what they were saying, Larry did his thing and didn't stop.  Little did Larry know, his jumping up and down all over the dance floor motivated me to be even more free.  If I take on life with a Larry attitude, nothing can stand in my way.  And if something does, I'll just dance around it. 

So here's to dancing like no is watching and if they are watching - not giving a flip.  May we all Larry our days.

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Trashed Sweater // Lombard Floral Booties

Trimming the Fat

Over the past few months I've lost a few of my blog subscribers.  Each time I got an email that read "sorry, you've lost a subscriber" I questioned my platform.  I would ask myself, "are they not feeling my fashion, my words, my delivery?"  It was aggravating and discouraging at times.  When I would get the "infamous email" I would actually talk back to the computer screen saying stuff like, "whatevvvvvveeeeeerrrrr" and "forget you too!" To say I was tripping is an understatement for sure. 

A couple of days ago a friend called to tell me how he enjoyed my last post, Peace Over Money + Spring Colors.  During our conversation he said, "your writing is definitely improving.  It's concise, to the point....you're trimming the fat."  BOOM!  He hit the head on the nail!  I thanked him for his compliments, but what I was really thinking about was the phrase "trimming the fat."  It stuck with me.  I thought about the subscribers I've lost in the past and the ones that will possibly fall off in the future.  I got encouraged.  I told myself that I am actually trimming the fat and getting rid of unnecessary weight.  I understand that everybody will not be moved by what I am doing and that's fine.  I'm focused on operating in an authentic realm in all aspects of my life, and I want to only associate myself with a community of people who are truly open to my style and what I have to say. 

Now when I receive the "sorry, you've lost a subscriber" email, I shrug it off.  Quality will always exceed quantity in my book.  And it's way more fulfilling to vibe with a few people I genuinely connect with instead of a thousand who could care less.  

“I’d rather ten lions than a hundred sheep.”

— Fabolous

Getting skinny - figuratively and appreciatively,

- Samjah Iman

Photo Credit: allthingsdante.com

Peace Over Money + Spring Colors

I've learned some valuable lessons this past month that have forced me to appreciate and value my peace and to gravely understand that it (my peace) trumps everything - including money. 

Never in the past would I have thought about turning down opportunities to maintain my peace, but at the age of 36 - that's exactly what I am doing.  I'm discovering that I don't have to jump at every offer because not every offer aligns with the peaceful life I'm trying to live.  I've put myself in stressful situations in the name of making money, and at the end of the day I definitely got the money and the stress that came along with it.   

Of course all stressful situations aren't avoidable, but if and when I have the power to control the situations that are - I do just that.  One thing that has contributed to me being more in control of my world is the decision I've made to lighten my material load.  The fewer things I need, the less resources I need - and that gives me more power over the direction my life is going in.  When I had tons of unnecessary, material things - I had no choice but to jump at mostly all opportunities to keep that lifestyle up because the more I accumulated, the more money I needed......not any more.     

At this point in my life I'm reveling in the pure fact that less is more peaceful.  When it's all said and done, my mental stability and well-being reign supreme.  And anyone, anything, or any opportunity that threatens that cannot operate in the same space as I do.

Peace over EVERYTHING,

            - Samjah Iman

P.S. - This spring, it's all about bright colors for fashion.  Even though black is my go-to hue, I'm looking forward to participating in this fad because I do believe that bright colors have a positive effect on our vibe and bring out the hidden colors in our skin tone.  If you're interested in learning about more trends that will  be popping this spring, check out my article on Fashionbombdaily.com. 

I Got The Power

The other day I met a friend for some good conversation and tasty food. When ordering our menu selections, I asked the cashier a question and her response was short and condescending. My friend and I looked at each other in disbelief. To make sure I wasn't in the twilight zone, I asked another question....and received another nasty response. I chuckled...not because anything was funny, but because I was losing my patience and the neck rolling was about to commence. I looked at my friend. He shrugged his shoulders and laughed. I then shook my head and let it go.

We sat down at our table and discussed what just happened. My friend said, "that was an opportunity for us to look inward, not outward." I thought about his statement. He was right.  

“Feeling played is a choice.”

— Nesby Phips

People will always act how they want to act and none of us can change that. However, what we can change is how we feel about their actions and respond to them. We have a choice in that matter. I'm learning that most of the confrontations we tend to encounter have a lot to do with our ego. Once we believe our ego has been bruised, we react. The only reason I was about to give the cashier a piece of my mind was because I felt like, "how dare she talk to me like that!" Ego....that's all it was. Then I thought, "why would I let this young girl determine my actions and how my evening with my friend is going to go?" So instead of stooping to the cashier's level, I chose to take control of my feelings and let her have whatever moment she was having.   

I'm trying this new thing in life where I don't blame other people for my actions or feelings. I am taking full responsibility for how I allow myself to feel and react to situations. A rude cashier at a restaurant shouldn't control my mood, a lunatic driving crazy in traffic shouldn't make me yell obscenities out my car window, nor should a frustrated customer service rep push me to lose my patience. Now of course I won't allow anyone to mistreat or harm me. Sometimes you do have to let some people know where you stand.  However, I will try not to allow any person to dictate my mood or make me react in a way I will regret later.  I am in control of my world.....and absolutely no one will have the power to shake it up. No one!

In the maturing process,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Long t-shirt // Vintage Levis (old) // Daisie Pumps

P.S. - If you haven't checked out the movie Black Panther please do so ASAP!! It's exhilarating! The characters were beautiful and talented, the fashion was exceptional and dynamic, and above all the message was powerful. I'm still in awe of that film!  Go see it!

Be Still

The other day while in yoga class, the instructor gave us a set of poses to do.  After we completed the poses, she directed us to stand still.  During the standstill pose, I started fidgeting, looking around, I scratched my nose, wiped sweat from my forehead, etc.  Observing me and my other class members' constant movement, the instructor reiterated to the class, "stand still."  I scratched my nose again.  She went on to say to the class, "the hardest, yet most beneficial pose in yoga is standing still."  The light in my brain turned on. 

I've always had a problem with being still.  I have to constantly be doing something in order to feel like things are moving.  However, I'm in the process of learning that sometimes I have to possess enough faith and patience to just be still.  Practicing stillness allows me to calm my mind and spirit, lower my stress levels, be more present, appreciate the moment, and it also recharges my batteries. 

I read somewhere that resting is one of the most spiritual things a person can do.  I wholeheartedly agree with that statement.  Resting or being still is a way to let go and let God, honor ourselves, the precious moments we are given, and the hard work we do.  When we are constantly on the move, stress tends to creep up on us which in turn causes us to overlook chances to be grateful and to be in awe of the beautiful things happening around us.  Therefore it's healthy for us to step back for a second, breath, and just be still. 

Enjoy the rest of the week and Happy Mardi Gras and Valentine's Day to those who celebrate it.  I hope you all will add being still to your list of things to do this week.  We all work hard and deal with so much; therefore, we must take a minute to honor ourselves and be still.

Peace and Blessings,

    - Samjah Iman

Outfit Details:  Dad's Cap // Patent Leather Booties // Distressed Jeans (designed by me) // T-shirt (old) // Leather Bag

36 Years Later...

I celebrated another year yesterday, and it feels good.  I feel accomplished.  I don't feel this way because I've done a ton of successful things, it feels good because I am actually starting to truly understand the art of just being.....and it only took me 36 years to get it. 

In my opinion, trying to overdo something breeds complexity/stress and keeping it simple is more peaceful.  In the past, I thought being the best at that or doing the most with this was the way to go.....now days, I do what I can then let the rest be.  Of course I give my all when it comes to my goals, but I do it because I feel it.  Not because I'm not trying to live up to any social media/internet definition of hustling hard - just mine.  I no longer feel the need to structure my life in a way that looks enticing to others because who I am and what I do is enough.  As long as I am doing what's in my heart and living out my visions then I'm good.      

So here's to year 36; I'm keeping it simple, just being, and living the life I've designed for myself.  It may not be picture perfect to the world, but it definitely feels good in my soul - and that, to me, is a high achievement.    

Peace and Blessings,

- The Birthday Girl

Photo Credit: shotbyclipz@gmail.com

I Forgot To Breathe + Black Thighs Matter Sweatshirt

Life threw some curve balls last week that I wasn't prepared to hit.  My faith was tested and so was my patience.  I was literally stressed out. 

While dealing with all that was occurring, I remembered that I hadn't gone to hot yoga in a minute.  So I made it my business to be front and center at the next class.  As soon as I walked in the heated studio, I felt some relief.  Then the teacher began the class with breathing exercises, and I actually felt the stress leaving my body.  I then said to myself, "Sam, you forgot to breathe!"  

Breathing doesn't eliminate any problems of course, but it does help when you feel yourself stressing.  Taking deep breaths helps me to think clearly and eliminate any pent up negativity I have festering inside.  The next time you find yourself in a crazy situation, stop for a minute and take a few deep breaths.  I guarantee you'll feel a little better. 

On another note, isn't my sweatshirt super dope?!  I scored it from a brand based in New Orleans named Supanova.  Check them out.

Don't forget to breathe,

- Samjah Iman

7 Things I've Learned About Blogging That Can Be Applied To Any Grind

My two-year blogging anniversary is coming up in a few days, and I must say that I am proud of myself for sticking with my passion and carrying out my vision.  With this blog, I wanted to simply share my life experiences and show my style choices in hopes of inspiring someone.  Now, two years later, I still aim to do just that.  The birth of Style & Energy was never rooted in popularity/financial gain.  It was an outlet for my creative side.  And I believe that because my purpose for this blog was/is to bless others, it has been a blessing to me.  It grew faster than I could have imagined and has influenced/motivated more people than I know.  These two things alone amaze me every time I think about them.  I'm grateful.

Although this blogging journey has been rewarding and fun, it has also been a learning experience.  Below I am sharing 7 things I've learned about blogging during my two year stint that can also be applied to any passion you're pursuing at the moment.  Check them out. 

1.  BE CONSISTENT - Staying consistent in anything you want to achieve, especially blogging, is the best way to achieve your desired results.  If you're not consistent, you won't succeed and others won't take your work serious.  

2.  REMAIN TRUE TO WHO YOU ARE, YOUR BRAND, AND YOUR CREATIVITY - Forget what other bloggers or people in your craft are doing...do you.  Stay original.  There will be people that are more successful than you, have more subscribers, and attract more attention than you, etc.  Who cares?  What matters is if what you are doing is a representation of what's in your soul.  And if it is, people will eventually notice that.  Genuine people are attracted to genuine things. 

3.  KEEP GOING - It will seem like no one is even paying attention to what you are putting out there at times, but that's okay.  Keep putting in the work.   The more you work, the more you become an expert at your craft.  And when you become an expert, that is when you elevate to higher levels. 

4.  BE REAL WITH YOUR AUDIENCE - Some of my most personal posts are my most popular ones because there is always someone who can relate.  Most times when I write about my real life occurrences, trials, and triumphs, I usually get a message from someone telling me that they needed to read about my experience or how it applies to their current situation. When you give your audience authenticity, they will respond.   

5.  PERFECT YOUR CRAFT AND PERFECT IT SOME MORE - Learning should be a reoccurring thing, especially when it comes to your passion.  New ideas and inventions are popping up daily; research them and familiarize yourself with them.  Go to workshops, learn from other bloggers or people in your craft, meet up with others that do what you do to discuss best practices.  The more you know, the more effective you are and the more you grow.   

6.  LIVE YOUR LIFE - Most of my blog posts come from my experiences, music I hear, lessons learned, traveling, and conversations that I have with people.  Living is my inspiration, and if I don't experience life then I can't inspire.  If I never got out there and messed up, achieved, cried, laughed, visited that place or tried that new thing - I wouldn't have anything to share with my audience.  Therefore, I strongly suggest that we all live!  Get out there and don't be afraid to take on life.  At the least, you'll have a story to tell.   

7.  HAVE FUN - Life is short, whatever you choose to do make sure you enjoy doing it.  Of course you won't enjoy every aspect of your passion, but if the bulk of it doesn't excite you, don't do it.  Simple as that. 

Thank you to everyone who has been on this Style & Energy journey with me.  Whether you've shared one of my post, commented on a post, wrote me a private message that said keep going, said nothing but observed, subscribed, rolled your eyes while reading a paragraph or looking at a picture, I appreciate you.  It only gets better.

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Gordon Gartrelle Sweatshirt // Green New Balance Sneakers

Keep It Classic

I purchased the Reeboks aka 54-11s I have on in the pictures above about four or so years ago.  I always admired these 80s staples.  My mother used to own a pair that she exercised in.  I remember them vividly.  They were black and possessed a slightly worn look.  So when I grew up and was able to locate and purchase my own pair, I was overjoyed.  I first wore them around my friend and her ex-boyfriend, and I distinctly remember him laughing at my bright yellow kicks.  He was a sneaker head at that time, and I totally respected his collection.  So when he began to make fun of my classic kicks, I immediately questioned my decision to buy them even though I had a lasting, deep love affair for the shoes.  A few days after the laughing episode, my friend called me and asked where I got them from because her boyfriend wanted to purchase her some.  Well look at that!

“Some say hating is confused admiration.”

— Nas

I told myself from then on that I would never question my style again because it's just that.....MY STYLE! 

Remaining true to who you are and your style aesthetic is the best way to keep it classic.  No matter what the crowd is doing or even if they are laughing, do what's in your soul.  Your confidence in your fashion choices will make your outfit stand out that much more.  

Stay true to your choices and who you are.....keep it classic.   

- Samjah Iman

P.S. - Sorry I have no outfit details guys!  Everything I have on in the picture is super old or from a consignment shop. 

Don't Watch The Pot + Think Outside The Box Hoodie

I woke up the other morning feeling like "what the hell am I doing?!"  I felt like my hustling efforts were at a stand still; like I was doing a lot of seed planting but nothing was sprouting fast enough.  I was unmotivated.  Then I took a deep breath and told myself that I could either lay here and wallow in my bull, get up and go harder, or get up and go grocery shopping.  I chose the latter.

Sometimes when you've done all you can do, you just have to step back and trust that God will do the rest.  When I agonize over things and try to force them, it seems to push them further from my reach and it takes forever for them to come to fruition.  But when I do my part, let stuff flow freely, then leave it be - things start happening.

My grandmother always says, "a watched pot never boils." And she is right.  Ever threw some water in the pot and stood there to watch it boil....it takes a minute huh?  But when you throw the water in the pot then walk off and come back, it's cooking time.  Let that sit in your brain for a second.

In other news, you all know I love a good statement tee or sweatshirt.  This particular one caught my eye not because of the popping fuchsia color but because of the message.  It represents how I try to live my life daily - outside the box.  Feeling it?  Cop your hoodie here. 

Here's to being unconventional and not watching the pot boil.  

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman    

Photo Credit: shotbyclipz@gmail.com

Stay Nourished

When I'm hungry I must admit, I am not the most pleasant person.  I get weak, I start to shake, and I'm short with whomever is around me.  As soon as I get some food inside of me, I'm back to being the chill Sam that I am.  In the past couple of years or so I've noticed that the symptoms I get when I haven't fed myself physically are the same symptoms I get when I haven't fed myself spiritually and mentally.  If I go days without spending time with myself, helping someone, reading, listening to music, taking a bike ride, or talking to my loved ones - I get irritated easily and my flow is completely thrown off.       

I can't do ANYTHING when I'm deprived of food physically, mentally, and spiritually.  If anyone has been around me when I'm full, they will probably attest to the fact that it's nothing but love and laughter.  I prefer that Sam.  Therefore, my new focus has been on making sure that I am full in all ways, ALWAYS. I want to constantly replenish myself so that I can give dynamically to everyone around me. 

If I have an empty refrigerator, I cannot feed others.  

Stay stocked, stay full, stay nourished.

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

   Outfit Details:  H&M Stripe Blouse (in stores only) // ASOS Red Trousers (sold out) // Vintage Eel Skin Purse // H&M PeaCoat (sold out)

I Ain't Tripping On 2018

It's that time of the year again.  That time when all you hear is people discussing their resolutions or the things they are going to do better in the coming year.  I get it...it's encouraging and inspiring to make resolutions for the new year.  Sometimes I even find myself saying what I will do better in the new year, but then I remind myself - I can start doing better today.  I don't need the calendar to read 01/01/18 for me to work out more, eat better, hustle harder, etc.  Because although I am anxiously awaiting the positives things that the new year will bring, all I really have is now. 

“Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today.”

— Ben Franklin

I understand the importance of making plans and setting goals for the new year.  However, I also think that what can be done today should be handled today if possible.   Everyday is a blessing, and I should be working on becoming a better person every moment of my life.  Each day I wake up is a chance for me to correct any wrongs that are in my power to correct and work towards what I didn't accomplish the previous day.  I don't need a day on the calendar to remind me to do better and be better.  I'm reminded of that every time I get another opportunity to see the light of day.  

So here's to not tripping on 2018 and handling what you need to handle today.  Remember, the next year isn't promised - but right now is.  Start doing better this moment.

Happy Holidays my people and thanks for riding with me during 2017.  It was fun, informative, challenging, and eye-opening - and the crazy thing is, it's only the beginning.  It's about to get good for all of us! 

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: OTK Red Boots // Vintage Trench // Red Beret

Photo Credit: Keithshoots.com

The Other Side Of The Game

I met a young lady who told me she wishes she had my life and that it seems I have it easy doing what I do.  My response to her was, "Girl I make it look easy, because it damn sure ain't." 

Everyone has a backstory to tell - and it ain't always pretty.  You see me posing effortlessly in a picture sporting a fly outfit and you may think "she's got it all."  But what you don't see is the intricate process involved in putting everything together just to be able to take that picture.  Or what you don't know is right before I took those fierce pictures, I probably just got through checking my bank account in hopes that a brand exhibited professionalism and paid an invoice on time only to find out that they hadn't.  You have no idea what is going on behind the scenes because all you see is the finished picture, and all you know is what you've presumed.  

A fun thing I like to do is watch documentaries/interviews or read autobiographies/biographies on celebrities.  It's interesting learning about their history.  Almost all of these wealthy, successful people that I read or watch a documentary/interview about have dealt with some type of traumatic experience that I would not EVER want to encounter.  For instance - I've learned that Oprah was raped when she was younger, comedian/actress Tiffany Haddish was a product of foster care and dealt with an abusive mother and husband, comedian Monique was living out of her car for a while, and soul legend Bobby Womack (google him youngsters) lost one son to a suicide, another infant son to suffocation and his brother was killed by a jealous girlfriend.  Crazy huh?! 

I write all of this to drive my point home about being grateful for your life.  Yes someone else's life can seem so enticing on the surface, but you never know what experiences constitute the person you see or what downfalls may have motivated the art they create.                

“If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else’s, we’d grab ours back.”

— Regina Brett

Before you wish your life was like someone else's, remember that there is ALWAYS the other side of the game.

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Vintage Leather Trench Coat - My aunt's closet // Vintage Fendi Bag // Nike Tennis

Photo Credit: shotbyclipz@gmail.com

Legacy > Likes

One of the most difficult things to do in today's society is to stay true to yourself and your passion when it seems the majority of the world is only worshiping that which is on the surface.  I witness so many people compromise their art or who they are just for the thrill of temporary popularity.  It works for now, but will it sustain?

I made a vow to myself a while ago to create art that has meaning behind it and to do what I am doing because it's authentically me - not for the money or approval of others.  I want to be able to wake up everyday and feel good about who I see in the mirror and the energy I am putting into the world because I know it aligns with my true self and purpose.  Twenty years from now I want to read my words or look at my fashion choices and feel good knowing that I didn't sell out to please others.  What I'm putting out may not always be right, stylish, or exciting to read, but what it is is my truth and my legacy.  And that's worth way more to me than being validated by this world.   

I chose the crop t-shirt I am wearing above because it speaks to what I preach on this blog often.  Creating a legacy and staying true to yourself is always greater than being liked and accepted.  To check this t-shirt out and more t-shirts like this, visit KandiceGuiceCollection.com. Also, see how other stylish bloggers rock their statement tees from the Kandice Guice Collection below! 

“You’re not supposed to give people what they want, you’re supposed to give them what they don’t know they want yet.”

— Diana Vreeland

Create a legacy....screw likes!

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details:  Crop t-shirt // Floral Booties // Black Denim Skirt // Mustard Cardigan (similar here) // Leather Tote

Jazz of thejdseries.com

Destiney of www.joyinmysoles.com

Kimberly of www.kimbeauxstyles.polyvore.com

Enjoy Each Phase

I was sitting at an empty bar one day holding a casual conversation with the bartender.  In the middle of our conversation the bartender said, "Man it's slow in here today...damn!"  I sipped my martini then politely asked him what was wrong with that.  He responded, "I want that money!"  I nodded my head in understanding.  I then finished my drink, paid my tab, and said my goodbyes.  A day later I passed by that same bar and saw that it was jumping with inebriated, seemingly impatient people.  The bartender was all over the place juggling several things at once.  I paused at the open door of the bar to wave at him, but he didn't have a second to look up.  I thought to myself, "I bet he wishes he would have enjoyed that down time he had the other day."   

I remember as a child wanting to be grown in a hurry.  And now that I've reached adult status, I sometimes find myself wishing I would have enjoyed every childhood moment that I didn't have any bills to pay.  I hear parents sometimes say, "I can't wait until my toddler begins walking or eating on their own."  Next thing you know the child is driving themselves to the prom, and the parent is wondering where the time went.   

As humans, we have the tendency to complain about our current situations especially if they aren't progressing like we want them to.  Whenever I start to do this, I remind myself to find the blessing in that current situation and enjoy it until change comes.  I used to get antsy when I didn't have any work to do because I felt the need to stay busy.  Now days when I get free time I cherish it, because I know my schedule will flip to full within hours.    

No matter what is going on in your life (good or bad) know that it will change.  Nothing will be the same way always.  Therefore, enjoy each moment of downtime, each phase of busyness, and each second of solitude - because you never know when the bar will get chaotic again. 

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Photo Credit: keithshoots.com