This is a question that I often ask myself: “How bold is too bold? How far is too far? Would it make a difference if I actually took the chance instead of passing?” Strangely enough, as often as I’ve asked myself that question – I’ve found that until this year, I haven’t really answered it for myself.

Boldness can sometimes be an uncomfortable topic. Especially when it comes to answering questions regarding why you were potentially afraid to do a certain task. However, I’m going to go so far as to say that because these questions can be so difficult (and sometimes scary) that they leave a huge potential for personal growth.

Personally, I think that being bold in many aspects of life is essential. It allows you to take chances and step out of your comfort zone – maybe you take on the project that you’ve been meaning to, but never had the guts before. Maybe you go on a date with someone, and find someone that you really enjoy spending your time with. Or maybe it’s as simple as trying a new food that you now know you cannot possibly live without.

One lesson that I’ve learned this year has to do with confidence, and how being bold works its way back into the conversation. This lesson was multi-faceted (at least, for me it was) in terms of how I could apply it to my life moving forward.

The first way that this lesson presented itself was through self-image. I have always been a fan of wearing dark colours – honestly, if you’ve read over my page before, it’s no secret – but I struggled with actually wearing the shapes and styles that I really loved. Worrying about perception was really tough for me, and I always found myself trying to ‘blend’ in with the styles I was seeing. Now, I’m just the opposite. I’ve been embracing the fact that my personal style is a mix between bold colours, tough textures, and dainty feminine details. I love the contrast between these elements, as they are not something you’d typically see being paired together. I finally feel like I have the confidence in my image to wear what I feel expresses my voice and creative perspective.

This lesson also manifested itself in terms of my career goals. I’ve loved writing for a long time – and I primarily have my eighth grade English teach to thank for that – but I never really took the step to create a website that really reflected me as a person, as a brand, as a creative perspective, and that I really loved. I used to stress a bit over how the content I put out would be received, but I recently watched a documentary that helped me to realize something very important. If I truly love the content that I’m creating, there will be an audience that sees the passion behind it and falls in love with it too. I know that my content is not for everyone, but it is something that I truly enjoy creating – that being said, I really appreciate everyone who has had a kind word to say or words of encouragement. I really do cherish all of you.

The last way that this lesson applied to my life is in terms of personal relationships. Whether it be with networking, dating, or friendships – a personal relationship doesn’t just happen. In this sense, being bold doesn’t have to be dramatic. It could be as simple as approaching someone to introduce yourself, even if you may be nervous to do so. Recently, I was at an event hosted by Culture Piece Magazine in Minneapolis, MN, and I met the most wonderful lady while queueing at the bar. I loved the look of the fascinator she was wearing, and I had the opportunity to discover a beautiful shop in Northeast, Minneapolis, just by a simple introduction that turned into a lovely conversation. (Shopping connections, WHO DOESN’T LOVE THOSE?!)

What are some ways that you enjoy being bold? Do you find it difficult to step out of your comfort zone? Why? Let me know in the comments! Until next, xoxo.

Photography: Taylee Photography

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