You voted for the black denim outfit and your wish is my command. I really do like that function on Instagram as it really helps me bring you content that you are interested in. And in case you are wondering over the knee boots won today and I will get you that post later this week.
This post hits close to home-not just because I am writing it but because I am living it everyday. And I’ll tell you friends, it is hard to stand up for yourself and know your worth. In a saturated industry like blogging it is easy to fall down the rabbit hole of “I am no better than anyone else”. It is easy to hold on to the idea that I have no credibility doing this and why would someone want to work with me.
BUT if I continue with that mind-set than I am proving I may not have credibility. If I don’t climb out of the rabbit hole than I am not better than anyone else. Now, easier said than done but a great motivator to start the process.
So this week my thoughts on wrapped up in this and I am better. I am credible. If not for the brands than for myself. At the end of the day I am not sure how long this blogging journey will last nor can I predict my future success in this industry but I do know that finding and knowing my self-worth is something I will carry into the remainder of my life. If I have learned anything from this journey it is the power of self-confidence, self-worth and self value. I mean, I throw pictures of myself all over the internet… you would think I am pretty self-confident.
I guess I do have some. But I also get to hide behind the screen, So it can appear I am more confident than I may feel at any given moment. And that is what my job is… to showcase a life that you feel inspired by, that you want to emulate and that you find worthy of following. Yet finding my self-worth on the business side is much harder. I can throw photos up all day, I can style clothes and take good photos… but I am struggling to formally put a value on my work. I am struggling to define what my self-worth is valued at.
Maybe that is the main problem… maybe I am thinking about this the wrong way??? In fact, I think it should be less about the monetary value and more about the emoSTEtional growth and valuation of us as humans. It isn’t really about how much I charge it is about how I feel about myself. Am I worth this??? YES. I do not want to be judged on my rates as a blogger (despite that being the brutal nature of the business); I want to be judged on the amount of women I inspired, on the number of ladies who I connect with and the times I have influenced someone to feel better about themselves. That is how I find my self-worth… through interacting with you. Through engaging with my followers and supporters. Through seeing women succeed in their quest for fashion. Now, translating that to brands and companies is going to be hard!! Ha.
*MY SITE CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS WHICH COULD LEAD TO COMMISSIONS FOR ME. IT DOES NOT AFFECT NOR CHANGE THE PRICE FOR YOU.
Photos: Jenna Sparks Photography
shop the look: black jeans // top // bag <similar> // Shoes <similar> // watch //
Black denim as requested! So, I went classic. Black jeans and white top. snake-skin heels for some pattern and puppies as props!! Ha. I can not think of a better combo than the timeless look of black and white. I love to wear my black jeans with simple neutral tones. These black jeans are going to get a lot of wear this winter season. The knee distressing is just enough to keep them trendy but not so much that the cold weather will seep in. They are a great fit with some stretch, run true to size and under $65.
This white blousey top is the knock off version of this one. And half the price making it under $30. I found the fit to be almost identical and this one to be a bit thicker material (better for winter). The elastic waist on this top creates an immediate definition for your midsection and flatters any body type. Also, loving the elastic wrists so my hands are free for petting puppies ;-).
With this classic and timeless pairing of black jeans and white top I added some flare with a fun snake-skin block heel, a bright clutch and rose gold watch. Adding accessories is such a fun way to add some spunk, color or even personality to your outfits. These block heels are from London so I have linked the most similar pair I could find. Additionally, my pink clutch is many years old but I really wanted to showcase how a pop of color can make a bold statement.
FYI: The little white puppy is not mine- she belongs to one of my dear friends.
self worth
Find yours. Believe in yourself. Define yours by what makes you happy and what inspires you. Do we care about how others view us… of course we do, we are humans. And to be honest there is a mix of that needed to maintain balance and authenticity. Nevertheless, you are worth every penny, every ounce and every consideration. As I continue on this journey I will, inevitably, be forced to define and redefine my self worth and I a hoping that each time it gets a little bit easier. Your self worth is set and maintained by the only person who has the authority to judge you… YOU.
With Love,
13 Comments
Antonia | The Midwest Wife
The black and white combo really is such a classic. This time of year I always gravitate towards my black denim. Also, I am in love with those heels! So cute!
October 25, 2017 at 2:54 ampishtoposh
Thanks girl!! Black denim is such a staple this time of year!
October 25, 2017 at 8:17 pmA
Jennifer
Love this post! I’ve written so many posts before about the comparison game, blogging and social media, aka Instagram. I think so many bloggers are having issues with Instagram now that it’s taken the fun out of what we love doing. Your outfit is super cute btw!
Jennifer
October 25, 2017 at 7:48 amEffortlessly Sophisticated
pishtoposh
Thanks Jennifer- there are certainly some challenging aspects of this journey and I’m still figuring them out as I go… I guess we all are!
October 25, 2017 at 8:16 pmA
Cathy
Ah, we’ve all been there! Yes, don’t think about the monetary portion, just think about how you want to grow and connect with your readers. It’s all about back to basics. The monetary portion will follow. Love what you’re doing, keep on doing it! You’re fabulous!
XOXO
October 25, 2017 at 9:17 amCathy
pishtoposh
Ahh thanks Cathy. It’s a struggle but you are right that it is about going back to the basics.
October 25, 2017 at 8:15 pmA
Tara
This is such a touching read! I think as influencers we struggle with self worth constantly! Bidding with brands and sticking to your guns when someone doesn’t want to pay you is tough and can feel so hurtful! But we are worthy! Our worth isn’t and shouldn’t be deemed by anyone except us!
October 25, 2017 at 2:58 pmpishtoposh
Tara- thank you! It is such a tough situation and the whole idea of defining myself based on what a brand wants is hard to do. Im so glad you get it!!
October 25, 2017 at 8:14 pmA
Alitzaj
Your puppy is so darn adorable!
October 26, 2017 at 9:38 amNicole Flower
Girl, so true great post!I think you are doing fabulous! You have the prettiest hair and those shoes are to die for!
October 27, 2017 at 10:53 amxo, Nicole
Shannon | Mom Without Labels
Okay first, you’re amazing and are worth SO MUCH. You’re goals, friend! I always love how transparent you are. And I love this look!!
October 27, 2017 at 7:11 pmrachel kaplan
Omg black jeans are my fave!! Loving the shoes too!
October 27, 2017 at 10:19 pmAngela Kim
Black jeans is such a classic.I love the heels you paired it with. As always an inspiring post!
November 1, 2017 at 4:44 pm