Embrace the Unedited: Esthetician Mental Health Check In

In an industry of curated feeds and filtered faces, the pressure to maintain a picture-perfect persona can feel overwhelming. We wear masks, both literal and metaphorical, striving to project an image that aligns with expectations, trends, and the elusive ideal of "enough." But beneath the layers of pretense and performance lies the beauty of our genuine selves.

As business owners, being authentic can be hard. Many of us have become accustomed to hiding our vulnerabilities and silencing our authentic voices. We fear judgment, rejection, and worry about the possibility of pushing clients away. Yet, clinging to these insecurities, traps us in a self-constructed prison, preventing us from truly connecting with ourselves and building our businesses.

If this resonates with you, I want to share some tools I've learned to help you break-free and let your freak flag fly, haha!

• Practice self-awareness: Take time for introspection. Journal, meditate, or whatever you do to find peace. Think about the stories you tell yourself, which are unkind, untrue, and that no longer serve you. This self-discovery is the foundation for acknowledging and letting go. 

• Embrace vulnerability: Let go of the need to be perfect. Do you know anyone who is perfect? I didn't think so :) Vulnerability fosters genuine connection and opens the door to authentic relationships.

• Prioritize values over expectations: Stop chasing external validation and societal norms. Instead, align your actions and choices with your personal values, even if it means defying expectations. This is the true path to happiness. 

• Celebrate your quirks: Don't try to fit into a mold. Celebrate your unique passions, quirks, and perspectives. It's what makes you, you - and your ideal clients will love it, and in turn you will attract more of those ideal clients. 

• Set boundaries: Protect your energy and well-being. Don't be afraid to say "no" to things that don't resonate with you or compromise your integrity.  I always say, the best part of being an adult is the ability to do whatever the fuck we want, and say no.  What a powerful thing that is when you really think about it!

• Practice self-compassion: We all make mistakes and have downfalls.  Again, nobody is perfect. Treat yourself with kindness and understanding. Remember.... it's progress, not perfection. 

This is a continuous journey, not a destination. There will be stumbles and setbacks, moments of doubt and days when you feel like giving up. But when we strive to live in alignment with our true selves it becomes easier.

Also remember that in your quest for a more authentic existence, you are not alone. We're all walking this path together.  So, be nice to my friend :)  

Your friend in beauty + business,

Sarah