Pay It Forward...

I am learning to find freedom in telling my story. Growing up in church its always been called a testimony. I have experienced so many things and depending on the story, it may be a "test" just to remember and articulate the words of my life's happenings. Once aware, others seem surprised but inspired by my journey. But opening up to the world about my triumphs and failures is not always what I'd prefer. Omitting information is sometimes necessary for smoother interaction. I don't tell lies but provide information on an "as needed" basis.

I am a fan of the R&B artist Chrisette Michele. While listening to her latest album I heard her sing something that really hit home. She said:
"If I just say what's inside of me, I might set somebody free. If I just be me."
Now it hit home because at that time I was in even more conflict about what parts of ME I wanted to introduce to the world. I'm no movie star, famous talk show host, or songstress, but I am a rising personality in the modeling/fashion industry. Who I am is important to the people and clients I may work with. So what I reveal to the world is critical to my career. But then again, because of who I am and where I am going, it is just as important that I look at the big picture and remember that what I do and strive for is bigger than me. Being open about my life's journey can help those who look up to me.

Soooo stay tuned for MY story. I am not certain the form of delivery, but I will say that you will learn, be inspired, surprised, and hopefully grow from it. I know I will.

Until next time... Andrea M.

Business

People sometimes reflect on their lives on or around their birthday. Others may do it when someone dies. It seems to be a tradition to reflect at the end of each year in order to have changes begin just at the start of the next one. Well, I find that tax season is another time to reflect, especially from a business standpoint.

As a model (independent contractor) one has to be mindful of the business of things: how much was invested (all of those expenses), earned, and what adjustments to make to have a more successful year. So aside from making sure I fulfill my obligation to the country by filing taxes, I will make sure to do myself a favor and be involved and aware of my business. This is the other side to staying beautiful, making castings, securing clients, rocking a shoot, and ripping the runway.

Now please don't get bored reading this saying, "I'm not a model, why do I care?" If you have/are your own business or just need to file taxes, the need for analysis still applies. See if you can find areas where you could save money while still providing a quality product or just get an idea of what monetary goals you want to achieve. Learn about ways to give back and get credit at tax season (donating items, etc). All this to find out how to be a better steward of your blessings so you will continue to receive them and they grow. If you came out on top, High 5 to you! If you still have work to do, let's get it done!


Until next week...


Andrea M.

Happy New You!!

So it has been a little over a month since my last post and a LOT has happened.  The holidays came, I traveled back home (Nashville & Chicago), and I took out some much needed time for family and rejuvenation.  There is something to say about the hustle and bustle of New York.  My trip there was planned but I could only plan so much.  The hands on experiences were nothing that I could have imagined.  It has been years since I had to walk, catch the subway, or even be alone.  All of those elements and my adventures in modeling added to making me a better me.  

So its 2012!!!! Yep, yep a new year has rolled on in.  There are lots of new things in store for all of us.  Whether it is politics, family, health, career, or spiritual, I expect upgrades in all areas!  I am not giving up on what is meant for me and I am making sure to give all efforts my very best.  I understand that to reach my goals I am going to have to work VERY hard and sacrifice what may seem to be a great deal.  But like all other blessings, I know that it will all be worth the rewards.  I am sure that I may have to come back and read this post throughout the year just to encourage myself because I expect obstacles to come my way.  Nothing as outstanding as what’s in store for me is that easy.  I will keep my support system strong and my faith even stronger. 

With this NEW year I would like to be a little more interactive with my readers.  That is a bit difficult when they do not comment.  So I ask that if you have something to say, just type below.  You can be “anonymous” and speak your mind.  Let me know what you would like to read about and I will be more than happy to do a FAQ blog post.  Whether you comment or not, thanks for your support.  Please be blessed and a blessing in 2012!  Special thanks to Gwen DeVoe for the title....so appropriate :)

Until next week… Andrea M.