I Am Many

“What exactly do you do?”It’s a question that I face on the daily.

I get it. Generally speaking, blogging and creative consulting are two titles that are confusing. Everyone has a different perception and understanding of them, usually based on their previous exposure and knowledge (or, lack thereof) of the industry at large. Add that to the fact that both professions are rapidly evolving, and you’ve got yourself a lot of head-scratching from others.

When I was in corporate America, I was perceived as a career-driven woman who was an expert in the field. Once I quit my job to dive into entrepreneurship, it’s been interesting for me to experience the shift in perception from others. I’ve had people talk to me like I’ve taken the “easy” way out, or am relying on my husband to provide for me. It’s not unusual for someone to say, “How does it feel to be unemployed?!” or “How do you like staying at home now that you’re not working?”

I know those questions or comments come from a good place, but I often have a hard time smiling while answering.

I’m not unemployed. I’m self-employed. While I work from home, I’m not staying at home all day twiddling my thumbs. I’m out there hustling, building my businesses; in meetings, pitching, doing photoshoots, writing and editing at all hours, day and night. I traded a high-paying, corporate job with a defined career path to dive into the unknown, with minimal payment and an upward-hill-climb toward growth. And I can honestly say the path I’m on now is harder.

Here’s the thing, though. Even if I were unemployed, or staying at home to care for my children (I am in awe of stay at home mothers, by the way. They are incredible), or heck, twiddling my thumbs to figure out what’s next….those would be my decisions, regardless of what others think I should or shouldn’t be doing with my time.

It’s interesting to me that our professions are so closely tied to our identity.

There’s an underlying tone of judgement with it all. Like what we do for a wage somehow equates to our self worth. When you think about that notion on a literal level, it’s a little sad, isn’t it? I personally think we all need to actively try and change how we tie a job with any person’s broader identity. But I especially think this is so important when it comes to women.

I am many.

So, what am I? How do I define my self? (I mean to write that as two words, by the way.) I am many.

I’m a blogger, creative consultant, and entrepreneur. I am a writer, photographer, editor, social media manager, content creator, strategist, sales lead, administrative executive, accountant and analytic professional.

I’m a mother, wife, daughter, friend, and caregiver. I aspire to be an activist and volunteer. I am feminine and masculine. A free-spirit who knows what she wants. Dutch and American. Kind and not afraid to speak up. A traveler and a home body.

I’m also evolving and somewhat undefined. I’m not afraid to embrace what’s next with open arms, pivot if something’s not working, and change.

I am many. A collection of titles. Some are more prominent than others, but they’re all important to the whole. I believe there is power in stepping away from the box and embracing the idea of many identities.

I’d love your respect. I welcome your curiosity. But I don’t need your permission.

We are many.

As women, we are facing a culture that expects it all from us. We wear countless hats on a daily basis, and we’re expected to do them all well. What I truly find most amazing, is that we rise to the occasion. Which is why, when I saw the “I Am Many” Rebecca Minkoff campaign, I was so moved at the message. I want to be a part of it.

“We are a collective of multidimensional women. The sum of many parts. We play many different roles. When we come together, anything can happen.”
Except above was taken from the Rebecca Minkoff “I Am Many” campaign message

We are many.

I am writing this post to spread the word. A reminder to you, my dear friend and reader, that you are many and you are enough.

You deserve to embrace your confidence. Use your voice. Go after your dreams, even if your dreams are considered impossible, or lackluster, by others. Stand for your “titles.” No matter what hats you wear, no matter what titles “define” you, you are worthy, and incredible, and should be celebrated for all that you are.

It’s time that we embrace the idea of being “Many”, and that we love all that we are. As women as men, as a society.

Speaking of combining many things, let’s chat about this outfit for a second! I love a great juxtaposition when it comes to style, which is why I wore this “I Am Many” campaign tee with a fabulous tulle skirt (similar here) and studded combat boots. The skirt is a pop of feminine, while the boots bring a masculine touch, which always leads to a fresh outfit combination. The tee and boots are both Rebecca Minkoff — you can shop more of her designs here! And, if you’re looking for general everyday essentials such as what’s pictured, be sure to browse the items here.