A reflection on choosing yourself, pulling back, and asking where the line between healing and hiding really is.
Credits Photographer: Autumn, Zeal Social Management — @am.media_ Edited: In-house, Zeal Social Management Model: Sydney, ZealUnity @Sydneyy.maye
The Valentine’s Question
Valentine’s Day is usually loud with flowers, dates, and the idea that love has to be shared with someone else. But what happens when someone chooses themselves instead?
Self-love is celebrated everywhere… boundaries, routines, protecting your peace…. but sometimes it raises an uncomfortable question:
Can self love become self protection that keeps love out?
This isn’t about right or wrong. It’s about reflection.
Learning to Stay In
When self love starts feeling like a safe place to hide
When she was young, things felt simple. You go out, you smile, you act like everything is fine. You come home with no need to complain, no need to reflect, no need to just be. Life itself felt like it was made to keep you happy.
But as she grew older something shifted.
She started noticing more. Going out felt heavier. Louder. Bigger. The way people looked at each other, the tones in their voices, the small moments that suddenly meant something.
It scared her.
Was this what the world had always been like?
Being quiet began to feel safer than participating. Watching felt easier than joining in.
But quiet did not just protect her. It changed her.
She began observing instead of living. Judging instead of connecting. Questions filled her mind.
Does he talk like that at home too? Why do people feel so harsh?
She would come home tired, not from doing, but from feeling everything too deeply.
Day by day the world felt less colourful. So she stayed in more.
Her bed. Her kitchen. Her phone.
She told herself it was self care. Self love. That word was everywhere. On Pinterest boards, aesthetic posts, soft quotes that told her she did not need anyone.
She could take care of herself. She did not need a partner. She did not need friends who thought differently. She did not need conversations that challenged her.
Everything felt softer alone.
Slowly, without realizing it, she stopped reaching outward. She forgot what it felt like to interact freely, to be seen, to feel messy and real.
The more she stayed in, the more she believed she was protecting herself. The more she believed she was right.
Until she noticed something changing.
Her voice felt smaller. Her energy quieter. Even her body felt tired.
How do you go out again when you have taught yourself to stay in?
How do you reconnect when your world gets smaller by choice?
Somewhere in the quiet, self love began to whisper.
You do not need anyone. Stay here. You are safest alone.
✨ Reflection Questions
When did peace start feeling like distance? Do you go out to connect or just to observe? Has comfort ever made your world smaller? When was the last time you felt truly seen?
🖤 Mini Quiz
Resting or Retreating?
Check what feels honest right now.
☐ I cancel plans even when part of me wants to go ☐ Staying home feels easier than being perceived ☐ I call it self care when I avoid discomfort ☐ I feel safe alone but sometimes stuck
Mostly yes? You may be protecting your peace, or slowly stepping away from life.
…
🎯 Fun Reflection Check
Finish the sentence honestly:
“I tell myself I’m staying in because ______.”
(No wrong answers — just honesty.)
Brave or Selfish?
One day, the sun came up, the music blasting, and breakfast was cooking. A simple text appeared, and a thought nudged her mind: What could I be doing?
Instead of hiding, instead of worrying who would be there or what might go wrong, she felt a restlessness, a spark that pulled her along.
Let’s go, let’s be merry, let’s be fun, she sang to herself as the morning begun.
Inside, she felt the glow of her own growth. She knew herself now, had worked, had grown, had become, someone who didn’t need anyone to validate her, but this wasn’t about needing… this was about living.
Let life surprise you. Let the wind hum, not the fan. Show your beauty to the world, to the women around, or to a man. Don’t look for something to fill you. Be part of the dance, show yourself off, step in the light, give life a chance.
Walk through the city with dreams in the air. Let your hair down, don’t worry about the stare. Who cares if you are seen, exposed, imperfect, unplanned? Life is not a test, you do not need to stand so grand.
You are unperfect, scared, but brave. Show your colours: bold, playful, unaware, and save yourself the judgement, the ill will, the scorn. Say thank you to the world for the courage reborn.
Sing from the rooftops, love near and far. Everything is made to be yours where you are. You do not need to carry it all, just step outside, answer life’s call.
And when the sky darkens, when the rain comes down, when people mock or stare in town, remember to give thanks for the strength to step out anyway, for the courage to laugh, for the courage to play.
On the way back, through trains, under the evening sky, love yourself, be happy, let your spirit fly. Play your music, savour your food, dance with the cat, howl under the moon, curl up cozy, leave nothing flat.
Love yourself with tea and chocolate, soft and sweet, you are safe forever, my dear, complete. You will always have your own heart, your own light, to carry you boldly through the darkest sleep.
✨ Reflection Prompts
When was the last time I stepped outside my comfort zone and felt alive?
What small joys today can I embrace without worrying what others think?
How can I show my colours boldly, even if it scares me?
Where am I still hiding and how can I gently step out?
🖤 Mini Quiz — Brave or Comfortable?
Check what feels true today:
☐ I let myself go out, even a little, despite fear ☐ I sing or dance just for myself ☐ I notice beauty in small moments and let it fill me ☐ I share my joy with someone else, even briefly
Mostly yes? You are stepping into bravery. You are learning that life is not about hiding or needing approval…. it is about being present, playful, and alive.
💌 Happy Valentine’s Day! We hope you have an extra special day today and always. Love you lots, and remember…..it’s okay to let go, breathe, and just be.
Boyfriends, Judgement, and the Truth About Independent Women
In recent conversations within online communities, a trend has emerged around the perception of boyfriends and men in the lives of independent women. There is a persistent idea that being connected to a man somehow diminishes a woman’s aura. Relationships and associations with men are often viewed as major reflections on the woman herself, as if the outside world judges her based on what they believe the man does or thinks. Questions like “Why him?” “What does he give you?” and “She must need him” reveal a broader societal pattern of judgment. These assumptions rarely reflect the man in the actual relationship who is receiving judgment, but instead highlight how society still evaluates a woman’s value through the lens of her relationships. Digital creator and female powerhouse Jenayah shared her thoughts on this topic, offering insight into relationships of all kinds…platonic, non-sexual, and otherwise..and what they reveal about perception, independence, and identity.
What Is Jenayah’s Take on Men and Judgement?
Jenayah is a force of nature, strong, independent, and full of grit. She has worked extensively within the ZEAL Community on brand shoots, manages her own bookings, and travels for other creative projects. She has walked in Kelowna Fashion Week and participated in the 2025 Dress for Success event, and is widely recognized as a leader in the community. She follows her own moral compass and does not let anyone else’s expectations or opinions define her. Growing up and building her life in a small town has sharpened her sense of self and given her the confidence to speak honestly about what she believes. With that perspective, we asked her about relationships with men.
What is your take on relationships with men from an outside perspective? Do you think society makes them feel awkward or embarrassed?
Jenayah did not hold back. “I think men do not shoot for the stars when dating and punish the moon because he settled for her. I do not think society makes men feel embarrassed enough.”
Do You Really Know Who You Are and What You Want?
Now blunt, yes. Harsh, yes. But Jenayah’s feelings are valid. They reflect the current societal dynamics, which may play a role in how men and relationships are perceived. In her own words, “I think men don’t shoot for the stars when dating.” This could come across as intentional or uneducated, even self-inflicted. Harm often comes from not truly knowing who they are, what they like, or what they deserve, while at the same time placing blame on those around them. To reflect on this, here are some questions you, your boyfriend, your friend, or anyone regardless of gender identity can ask yourself: Who are you and what do you want?
Self-Reflection Quiz: Who Am I and What Do I Really Want?
Instructions: Answer honestly. No right or wrong answers. This is for you.
Who am I?
A) Confident and independent
B) Still figuring it out
C) I’m a mix, depends on the day
Do I like myself?
A) Absolutely, flaws and all
B) Sometimes, still learning
C) Not really, I struggle with it
Do I enjoy being thought of and cared for?
A) Yes, but I can also give myself love
B) Sometimes, but I often rely on others too much
C) Not sure, I tend to avoid attention
What effort am I willing to put in to receive the love I want?
A) I actively work on myself and my relationships
B) I try, but it can be inconsistent
C) I expect others to do most of the work
Am I okay taking care of myself, or do I want someone to meet me in the middle?
A) I take care of myself first, but value partnership
B) I try to take care of myself but appreciate help
C) I want someone to do it all for me
If I want someone to do it all for me, is that sustainable?
A) No, healthy relationships require balance
B) Maybe, but it could cause tension
C) I haven’t thought about it
Why can’t I find or create these things myself?
A) I can, I just choose to share the journey
B) I’m learning how to
C) I rely too much on others and need reflection
Reflection:
Mostly A’s: You are self-aware, independent, and ready for healthy partnerships.
Mostly B’s: You are on a journey of self-discovery and growth. Keep learning about your needs and boundaries.
Mostly C’s: Focus on yourself first. Build your own happiness before expecting it from others.
Can Love and Creativity Coexist Without Losing Yourself?
Love and creativity often go hand in hand. In our community, we see it all the time — the way people show up for each other, support projects, and bring energy into collaborations can inspire not just art, but growth, confidence, and connection. That experience gives a lot of insight into how relationships, whether romantic or platonic, shape the way we express ourselves and see the world.
Creativity isn’t just about making cool stuff. It’s about becoming yourself, stepping into a character, or letting your energy flow however it wants. But here is the real question. Can creativity survive when everyone around you is projecting who they think you should be? When expectations are placed on you, or when the world asks for certain materials from you, can you still stay true to yourself without losing your spark? And what about love? Can that same magic happen without compromising who you are? Learning to love yourself or others can help you uncover parts of yourself you have been waiting to find, even when the world is trying to shape you.
We all know the people around us matter, but do they really shape who we are? Does someone else’s actions reflect your morals? Or can you be surrounded by all kinds of energy, good, bad, grey, messy, and still come out colourful?
We asked Jenayah, a creative powerhouse in our community who plans shoots, rocks brand events, and consistently shows up for her craft, what she thinks.
Do the people around you fuel your creativity or do you just go with the flow? Jenayah kept it real. “The people around me fuel my creativity, but it wasn’t always like that. I had to let everyone know I am here and I am creative. If my community didn’t know I wanted to create, they wouldn’t fuel me.”
Have relationships ever impacted your creativity, positively or negatively? Her answer is straight up honesty. “Dating people who don’t appreciate your creativity can really hold you back. Negativity from others makes it harder to fully express yourself.”
Jenayah on Staying Yourself While Letting Love In
Again, this gives us a window into how Jenayah thinks and believes. On one hand, the things around her don’t impact the way she drives herself. She relies on self-motivation and determination. But on the other hand, she acknowledges that romantic feelings, perhaps love, can influence how certain outcomes play out. Using Jenayah’s thoughts, and maybe a bit of projection, it seems like love can be one of the biggest factors in someone’s downfall or rise. But is this tied to self-love? How well you know yourself and how willing you are to show yourself to those around you matters. If people don’t know who you are, who you want to be, and how you operate, how can they support you in the way you need?
Relationships can challenge us, but they also show the importance of boundaries. By being upfront about who you are and what you need from the start, you can guide how people treat you moving forward. Taking risks and opening up is part of growth, but having a safe support system means you don’t feel the pressure to be who someone else wants out of survival instincts. Looking at situations from multiple perspectives, rather than comparing yourself to others, allows you to stay true to yourself while still letting love and connection in.
We asked Jenayah how this translates into her advice for younger creators finding themselves.
Question: “For younger creators, what is your top advice for connecting with other creatives, the good, the bad, and what to watch out for?”
Response: “For the first meet-up, bring a trusted adult. Even if you are an adult yourself. I am 25 and I still bring my mom to photoshoots. She usually ends up holding props or aiding in lighting. Most importantly, we are not putting me in a vulnerable position.”
Guiding the Next Generation with Confidence and Respect
This is great advice, and as part of our media community, we love having Jenayah around to be a spokesperson for others who are just starting out. She is often on site with us and our clients, helping behind the scenes with models and community members, making sure everyone feels comfortable and happy. She is like the younger generation’s mom, while also inspiring the older members to speak up for themselves.
Jenayah shows others what confidence looks like through clear communication, self-awareness, and respect. She guides people with her experience while allowing new emotions to be expressed and valued without judgment. She encourages everyone to adapt, be open, and stay honest while remaining respectful. This is such a key point in friendships and relationships across the board. Knowing who you are, what you want, and what you deserve, without bending to what others expect, keeps you feeling on top, confident, and respected, while also fostering respect around you.
Love, Respect, and Creating Without Fear
Our final question was about red flags for new creators.
Question: “What are some red flags new creators should watch out for when collaborating with someone? How do you know when or when not to create with someone, and how inclusive they really are? This can apply to romantic, platonic, and all gender or sexual orientations.”
Response: “A red flag to look for is how they talk to you or about you. Are they saying good, amazing, great, stunning, wow? Then I think that is a green flag. If they say something sexual, you have three choices. One, it doesn’t affect you and you continue with the shoot. Two, you say something, set the boundary, and move forward with the shoot. Three, you feel uncomfortable and stop the shoot. If they keep complimenting you over and over, listen to your gut to see if it encourages you or if something feels off. To gain trust with a creative, bring a close friend or trusted adult to help behind the scenes. They know you best and have your best interests in mind.”
The bottom line is simple. Set boundaries and leave if they do not respect you. But what if you did not have a big sister like Jenayah to guide you? How would you feel in these situations if no one told you what to do? Respecting yourself and knowing who you are in any situation—what you like, what you don’t like, what you love, and what you don’t want—creates the foundation for healthy relationships. Trust your gut, follow through, and learn through your experiences. Do not project one experience onto everyone else. Take the time to get to know yourself, and when someone aligns with your values, it will feel right.
There’s always one. The first one to doubt you. The first one to whisper instead of support. The one who watched you glow and hated every second of it.
This story is about that person. The OG Hater.
Not a stranger. Someone real. Someone I actually grew up with.
We went to the same schools. Our parents knew each other. We played on the same teams, shared group chats, talked about what we wanted to become. From the outside, it probably looked like we were close. And maybe we were, for a moment.
At first, they weren’t a hater at all. In fact, they were in my corner or at least it seemed that way. We laughed together. Dreamed together. Made plans for the future. We talked about growing into something big.
But the thing is, some people only support you as long as you stay beneath them.
There were little signs I ignored — the backhanded compliments, the tone behind certain jokes. Like: “How do you pose like that when your butt’s not even that big?” Said like a joke. But it sat with me.
As I started stepping into myself, owning my voice, my space, my vision, something shifted. The support faded. The sarcasm started. Suddenly, everything I did was “too much,” “weird,” or “just a phase.”
That’s when I realized: She didn’t actually hate me. She hated that I was becoming everything she didn’t believe she could be.
The Shift
When you start evolving and stepping into who you’re meant to be, not everyone can keep up. Some people haven’t done the inner work, and instead of cheering you on, they project their own fears and insecurities onto you.
That’s exactly what happened here.
I wasn’t being “fake.” I was just becoming realer than I’d ever been.
And they couldn’t handle it.
Slowly, things changed. They stopped talking to me like they used to. They stopped congratulating me openly. They stopped inviting me to group hangouts I had been part of forever.
The hardest part was that they didn’t even show up to my son’s first birthday and only told me the day of.
I didn’t get it. It hurt.
But the more I grew, the quieter they became.
Still, they would ask me to go on walks and we did. It was always filled by noisy questions like, “How do you do that?” or “How do you…”
That’s when I realized this wasn’t about friendship or support.
They weren’t inviting me anywhere. They weren’t showing up for me even when I openly asked for support.
Even when we talked about dreams, it was always followed by, “Don’t dream too big.”
Honestly, that made me laugh. Like, girl, that’s literally what you’re supposed to do — dream big.
When I Glowed Up, She Showed Out
The hating became undeniable. My growth exposed something in her that was not easy to see at first.
I tried to bring her along. I offered her chances to help me with projects and side gigs, things she had expressed interest in. It felt good to give back and watch friends support each other.
But something switched.
One night, over a bottle of wine, I shared my plans for a new project. I even gave her little notes on scheduled content. I was excited. I wanted us to work together on managing a page.
Weeks passed, and I had to ask multiple times if she had made progress. What she presented was completely opposite to what we had discussed. Instead of working on the social media content like I asked, she wanted to pitch marketing drinks to the owner. I was literally the social media manager and was trying to bring her on as the marketer.
It was a huge wake-up call. I was not sure if it was a complete miss or something more calculated.
Later, with another project, I even paid her upfront trusting she would deliver. Weeks went by without any updates. When I messaged her, she said she was too busy and offered to return the money. I told her not to worry and said I would handle it myself. Then, I got a message with the completed project and an apology.
Now I see her doing the same things I do, which is fine. Everyone has their own path. But damn, that was a shitty way to treat a friend.
We are done.
Real Talk — Haters Are Just Unhealed Mirrors
I used to let this kind of energy hit me hard. It would affect me in ways I couldn’t always explain. There were days I wouldn’t even want to get out of bed. Moments I’d worked so hard for…big, joyful milestones— felt heavy because of it.
But here’s what I’ve learned: everything I was doing, everything I was earning, was because I was telling my truth. I was walking fully in my truth. And that’s what makes people uncomfortable.
Haters? They’re just unhealed mirrors. They look at you and see parts of themselves they don’t like. They doubt you, question you, and try to drain your energy so they can protect their own pain.
No one can steal your light. They might try, or get inspired by you—which is honestly kind of cute. Because when you inspire someone to take that first step toward self-love, that’s powerful.
But just because you trigger something deep inside them, something worse than the devil himself, and that starts them on a journey doesn’t automatically make them “woke” or enlightened. Sometimes it just means they’re carrying trauma. Beliefs and guilt that haunt them, trapping them in a false image of who they think they should be.
They might stay stuck in those roles, hoping to avoid hate, but really they’re just silencing themselves. And that silence? It’s a slow death.
To Anyone With an OG Hater Keep Going Anyway
These are my words to you — the ones who don’t get congratulated enough.
I remember hearing Rihanna say this in an acceptance speech: You don’t get congratulated enough. And honestly, I couldn’t agree more.
Every hardship you face. Every day you get up. Every night you tuck yourself in. Every time you walk into a place you don’t want to be just because you have to.
Being love and light in places that seem to crave darkness.
You are amazing.
You deserve the world.
You are doing such an incredible job.
Even when things aren’t perfect, you inspire the people around you to glow. You are the reason things are getting better for yourself and for those who quietly watch you.
You are so amazing.
Keep going. Keep shining. And leave behind anyone who wasn’t meant to sit at your table for the long haul.
Marketing Tips for My OG Haters Who Secretly Love What I Do (You Know Who You Are)
Okay, listen up. If you are one of those OG haters who low-key respects the grind and actually wants to glow up, I got some real insider tips for you straight from a self-taught baddie like meee.
1. Slide Into Those DMs the Right Way Want to grow your clientele? Stop waiting for people to find you online or hoping ads will do all the work. Reach out directly but do not come across as desperate. If you do not have experience yet, begging online for work can make you look needy and that is a no-no. Be confident, be clear, and make your value obvious.
2. Network Smarter Not Harder Promoting free work is cool but do not make it your whole brand. When you are constantly giving without boundaries, people can smell the weakness. That puts you in a vulnerable spot where others might use you because they know you will do whatever just to be seen. Set limits, value your time, and do not let anyone make you their doormat.
3. Find Your People and Learn From the Best Want to mentor or be mentored? Do not try to go it alone. Put yourself under someone you truly vibe with, someone who inspires you and has the kind of growth you want. Build that genuine connection and grow together. Real relationships are better than fake followers any day.
So if you are watching and want to stop being that OG hater and start being an OG creator, start here.
The twisted reality behind gifts, guilt, and quiet control. A story told like a fairytale — for those who prefer fiction over facing the truth.
$100,000. What would you do with it?
For some, it’s a rebirth. For others, a receipt for silence. Freedom, debt, opportunity — or a slow unraveling of what you thought was real.
What if it didn’t come as a prize… but as a whisper? A wink. A favor wrapped in fine print you were never allowed to read. A “gift” that came too fast, too easy, too loaded.
However you meet your first 100K — job, loan, inheritance, betrayal — this isn’t about the number. It’s about the energy behind it. This post is your map to decoding the kind of wealth you’re manifesting… and whether you’re accidentally signing up for something you never asked for.
I know what money can do. Growing up between Winnipeg and Westbank, 100K felt mythical. My parents fought over bills like the heat itself was optional. Fast food was a luxury — and Carl’s Jr. might as well have been Paris. Maybe they were broke. Maybe they just didn’t believe in indulging. Either way, I was raised to believe money meant you mattered.
If you didn’t have it? You felt watched. Judged. Like everyone around you silently calculated how far you’d go just to feel worthy.
When social media hit, I clung to community. It felt safer than wealth. Until one day someone from school showed up with everything I didn’t have, and I had to ask myself — how did they get that?
That’s when the trust cracks began. When the “gifts” came in — from people who smile wide but talk little. The “you didn’t say thank you” energy wrapped in a bow of expectation. And I started wondering… What’s the price of love when it looks like money?
So here’s the tea — in fairytale form. For the ones who love a good story.
Let me tell you about Little Bear and the house he thought was his…
🪞 Why Bear’s Porridge Was Never Going to Be Enough
(a soft story about porridge, fish tanks, and figuring out what “mine” really means)
Once upon a soft pink dawn in the Valley of Echo Pines, there lived a bear. But not your average, stompy, growly, wilderness kind of bear. No, no. This was Little Bear. He had fluffy curls, wore slippers shaped like stars, and liked his tea with lavender and just a touch of cream.
Little Bear had a house. Well… sort of.
The house was technically his. That’s what the Bears said, anyway. “All yours,” they cooed, handing him the keys. “As long as you put in your own coins and stay long enough to make porridge. Every day. The same kind, okay?”
Easy enough. Little Bear loved porridge. He was raised on it. Warm. Familiar. Safe. Brother Bear liked it too — they’d giggle over gooey bowls while sitting on floor cushions embroidered with little moons.
But over time, Little Bear started dreaming of more. He wanted a pet fish. A sparkly one that shimmered pink under the light. He wanted bigger kitchen shelves to store all his honey-lavender teas and dried hibiscus. He wanted a washer that didn’t sound like a dragon every time it cleaned his favourite soft robe.
After all… it was his house, right?
So off he went, spending his coins (all of them) on building the life he dreamed of. The biggest fish tank in all of Echo Pines. The kind that hummed with peace and whispered “you’re safe now.” He fed the fish by hand. Lit candles while it swam. His home glowed in a way that made him feel real. Like everything was finally soft and right and his.
But then came a knock.
The other Bears returned. They stood in the doorway, looked around, and frowned. The porridge wasn’t the same — it was sweeter now, made quicker, lighter. The house didn’t feel “right” to them anymore.
But instead of asking how Little Bear was doing or why the fish mattered so much to him… They simply told him:
“We’ve decided to let the house go.”
Just like that.
No mention of the love he had layered into every corner. No glance toward the sparkling fish tank, the shelves built with his own paws, the washer that finally worked.
“Three moons,” they said. “You’ll need to be out by then.”
Little Bear blinked. “But… I built this. I made this feel like home.” But their minds were already elsewhere. It wasn’t about him. It never really was.
So what did Little Bear do? He gathered his fish. Packed his stars. Folded up every moment of love he’d poured into that house. And with soft sadness — and just a glint of clarity — he left.
They gave him his coins back. That part felt neat. But the truth? Little Bear knew those coins didn’t come close to the energy he gave. He thought love would root him in that space. But now he understood:
You can’t build forever in places that only wanted you for the version of you that made them comfortable.
So he started again. Somewhere softer. Somewhere quieter. Somewhere his fish could glow without question.
And Little Bear? He didn’t stop making porridge. He just made it a little sweeter. For himself.
👀✨ The Real Gag? Little Bear Isn’t Just a Story — It’s a Whole Warning.
Let’s be real for a second: A lot of people are like Little Bear.
Soft. Loyal. The kind who see good in things just because their heart is built that way. The kind who hear “it’s yours” and believe it. The kind who pour their whole soul into something — a home, a person, a dream — and never question the fine print.
But what if that gift wasn’t really a gift? What if the “freedom” you were handed came with a script written by someone else?
Listen — this is your friendly reminder that not every act of kindness is clean. Sometimes that overly generous offer is actually just a leash with glitter on it. Sometimes people overpay not because they value you… But because they want to own you later.
Ever get that weird pit in your stomach? Like… “why are they giving me this right now?” “Why did that brand randomly DM me offering $$$ with no relationship, no convo, no context?” “Why did that friend suddenly turn into a sugar angel when I never asked for anything?”
Yeah. That’s not intuition for no reason. That’s your spirit clocking future bait.
Here’s the tea no one wants to admit: Some people give to gain control. They keep receipts. They’ll hand you the house, the title, the platform… but the moment you stop making porridge the exact way they like it? They’ll act like it was never yours.
So here’s your soft warning from a bear who learned the hard way: Don’t ignore the motive behind the money. Don’t let free things cost you your peace.
If you wouldn’t treat someone like that, why would you let them treat you that way?
You are allowed to ask why. You are allowed to trust your gut. You are allowed to hold space for your feelings without making yourself feel “crazy” for noticing the shift.
Because the truth? Your feeling is the first version of your knowing. And no amount of money, gifts, exposure, or “opportunity” is worth the price of your safety, your clarity, or your heart.
Let them keep the house if it came with expectations you didn’t agree to. You’ve got better porridge to make.
💸✨ So… What Kind of Money Are You Really Calling In?
(because not all income is aligned, and not every dollar is destiny)
At the end of the day, it doesn’t have to be $100,000 a month from Twitch. It doesn’t even have to be $200 from a thoughtful freelance project you gave your energy to.
The real question is: What energy is your money coming from?
Because here’s the truth most people avoid: Money flows best through alignment. Not burnout. Not pressure. Not “I guess I should” energy disguised as ambition.
When you’re rooted in truth and authenticity — Money arrives calmly. Clients feel connected. Opportunities feel mutual, not transactional. You move… without moving.
But when you’re caught in guilt, confusion, resentment, or trying to prove something? That’s when things start to slip. Even good money can feel heavy. You’ll question yourself. You’ll second-guess your worth. You’ll over-give and wonder why you’re still running on empty.
So here’s the real reset: Guilt is guilt. Money is money. And you? You’re still you.
You are not the number in your account. You are not the receipt of someone else’s idea of success.
Choose who you are — morally, spiritually, and energetically. Not what you think you could do with the money… But what kind of life you want to live when you don’t have to chase it.
🐾 Soft Survival for When the Coins Come with Strings
aka how to spot the trap, protect your spirit, and keep your bag magical
🌙✨ Is This a Gift or a Grip?
a cozy little table for those navigating the blurry lines between generosity and manipulation
🍯 Situation
🧃Suspicious Vibes
🐻 Bear Energy Response
A family member or friend gives you money without a convo
“You’ll see… this will help both of us.”
“Before I say thank you, can I ask what this is for?”
You’re being “rewarded” for being good/quiet/accommodating
“You’ve been really well-behaved lately.”
“What’s the expectation moving forward? I’d love clarity.”
They give you a material gift at an oddly emotional moment
“I just thought you’d need this right now.”
“I appreciate the gesture — but is there anything you want to say directly?”
You feel nervous taking their money
You say thanks, but your gut says: “something’s off”
Ask yourself: “Would I do this to someone I love? If not, why let it be done to me?”
They remind you of your “debt” after helping
“Don’t forget what I’ve done for you.”
soft smile, firm voice: “That sounds more like a trade than a gift.”
🧼✨ Clean Exits for When People Prey on Your Peace
(real lines to hold your power, not just survive the game)
🧊 1. The “Clarify the Contract” Move
Say:
“Just so we’re on the same page — is this a gift, or are there expectations?”
Why: Cuts the confusion. Forces transparency. If someone can’t answer this, it’s already a red flag.
🧊 2. The “Pause the Pressure” Move
Say:
“I need space to think this through — I won’t decide right now.”
Why: This helps you reset when you feel blindsided. Pressure = manipulation’s best friend.
🧊 3. The “Name the Power Dynamic” Move
Say:
“I notice I feel a little indebted after this. That doesn’t sit right with me.”
Why: Brings emotional currency into the open. If they flinch, it’s because they were hoping you wouldn’t notice.
🧊 4. The “I Know My Worth” Move
Say:
“I appreciate the offer, but I won’t trade my peace for a favor.”
Why: This reclaims your internal value before someone tries to lower your price.
🧊 5. The “Reverse the Mirror” Move
Say:
“Would you still do this if I said no to everything after?”
Why: It challenges whether their giving is actually conditional. If the energy shifts? You have your answer.
🧊 6. The “Exit Gracefully, Stay Free” Move
Say:
“I’d rather pass than accept something that feels unclear or heavy.”
Why: You don’t owe anyone participation in their confusion, projection, or guilt cycle.
🌱✨ Your Journey, Your Power — We’re Here For It
These moves aren’t just lines to say — they’re tools to help you protect your peace, grow your confidence, and step fully into your worth.
At ZEALUNITY, we believe in building a community where authenticity rules and boundaries are celebrated. If you’re ready to rise, create, and connect with others who get it, come join us.
Follow us @zealunity — because your story deserves a space to shine.
The Truth About Why I Stayed Silent — What I’m Finally Ready to Share
I don’t even know how to write what I want to write. It’s scary to think that one person can feel one way and someone else can feel completely different. Sometimes it holds me back from sharing because the fear of being misunderstood hurts more than my ability to hide my pain. It’s hard.
All I’ve ever wanted was to feel seen. But as I’ve grown older, I realize that my need to be heard was so loud because I was asking for love—the kind I didn’t have for myself and didn’t grow up with. It’s tough being an adult, a mom, a wife, and still feeling like I’m nothing but human, learning how to love.
I carry so many responsibilities, and I’m still carrying bags I didn’t pack. I’m trying to heal myself, to break generational trauma, and to figure out what the right thing is. One of the biggest things I’ve realized is that I used to take people’s love and value as security. If I just loved you the way you wanted, maybe I could stay comfortable forever. Maybe I could just be loved, safe, and content. No more asking. No more doubting.
But this is the only thing I know how to do. To keep quiet. To please. To mask. No one wanted to listen in my personal life except my fiancé, but he’s not the one I’m trying to heal from. I’ve shared my truth with people who asked for it, and suddenly it was too much. I was too much.
Why couldn’t I just do what I was told? Would I get your love then? No. Would you try to understand me? Would you make sure I had a soft place to land when I cried? No.
If this is what I’ve been subjected to, even from people who were supposed to care, then will I ever really be heard?
This is the form I’ve decided to write on because I can’t always speak. For those who know me, and those who don’t, I have a stuttering problem. It started when I was young and got worse over time. I always blamed myself because it’s happening to me. But things also happened to me. Things I’ve never talked about. And I guess I just stopped talking because of the insecurity.
But it’s hard to keep it all in when I feel myself being surrounded by lies. It feels like I’m being suppressed to forget instead of being asked what happened to me. Not by just anyone’s opinion but by the very people I’ve been longing would help me.
Whenever I ask spirit what to do, the answer is always the same. Create. And that’s what I’ve been doing these past five years. I’ve been pouring my energy into things that matter, but it’s also made this feeling inside me get quieter. My happiness has slowly dulled because I can feel the people from my past—the friends and family—talking differently about me. Just because I don’t confront it doesn’t mean I don’t care.
I care too much. It’s hurting me. But I don’t want to keep telling you how it feels because no one changes, and that’s okay. I don’t expect you to.
I’m learning. This is part of it. I need to tell my story. Maybe I’ll share it in small pieces because it’s too much to unpack all at once. But this is me trying.
The Cost of Being Real
You might see me some days shining brighter than you’ve ever seen before, and other days not quite so bright—but that doesn’t mean I’m not okay. I feel people’s judgments and stares, even in places I’ve never been before. I show up as myself. When things are going well, you might see the best version of me. When they’re not, I might look or feel like the worst version—at least to myself. I’m simply working through my own process, putting my energy into healing so I can be even brighter the next day.
I know people often ask out of genuine concern. Are you tired? How are things going today? What’s the problem? I get it. But if I answer you, will you twist my truth into a version that fits your own story about me?
When people ask why I started Zealunity, I can feel their confusion, and it bothers me. What’s so hard to understand? I went through something negative, and I wanted to create what a positive space could look like—something I needed in that timeline of my life. It feels like people want me to say I had some weird dream and plotted it out.
Even when I share my small talk, my surface-level story, no one asks any deeper questions. Maybe it’s because they don’t want to pry, but the expressions on their faces don’t show empathy. It’s subtle, but it’s there. Still confusion.
What are you looking for? Can I answer anything more? Or will that make you face who you think I am—or maybe who you actually are based on the questions you ask? I don’t mind answering your questions. It’s okay to be honest with me. But when my answer doesn’t match what you already believe, are you willing to let that go?
It’s been hard having people around who don’t fully trust me, but honestly, I can’t blame them. You don’t really know me. That’s why, for those who are looking or wanting to connect, I want to be a space you can come to.
To be real and straightforward, I feel the simplest place to start is at the very beginning. I’m not sure how long this will take or what will come from it, but I’m going to try to start there. This is for myself, my kids, my friends, and maybe for anyone who has questions they don’t feel comfortable asking me directly. I hope this can be a place where you can understand how I think and see my perspective on my story. Little bits…
The Beginning of Me: Trauma, Trucks, and Tough Love
I was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, on August 10th, 2001, around 7:30 in the morning. My mom has told me the birth was pretty traumatic. From what I understand, I wasn’t coming out easily. She wanted a natural birth but was open to help. I guess I got stuck—TMI, I know. Then this guy came into the room without warning and told my mom he was going to use some kind of tool to pull me out. I don’t know all the details, but my grandma on my mom’s side and my dad said everyone was pretty upset about how it went down. I never got much more info than that.
I’ve tried to keep this simple because I don’t really know if all the facts I have are true or if some of it is just feelings and memories mixing together. I’ve got a lot of side stories and questions swirling around, but I’m trying not to internalize everything too much.
Mothers are incredibly strong. I don’t mean to minimize that rough experience, but it just shows how life happens sometimes, you know? Anyways.
I grew up surrounded by motorbikes, snowmobiles, 4x4s, tractors—you name it. My grandparents on my dad’s side still own a place with like 50 acres, plus another property with a house, barn, and all kinds of “toys.” The other land is for tree planting. It was a special place to grow up—safe but loud, full of real, messy, beautiful farm life. There’s something about that kind of childhood that sticks with you.
After my parents’ divorce and separation, I’d spend lots of time at my grandparents’ place. It became the place I would stay and a constant refuge throughout my childhood, especially during the hard times. It was also the meeting place for my mom and dad to talk before the “exchange”, and every time they met there, it felt like a ritual or some kind of cult space—like they were stuck in a loop I didn’t belong in.
I don’t remember much about my mom and dad’s house because we moved when I was three. We had to leave after my mom found out my dad was struggling with an addiction. She didn’t know before, she always told me it was new information for her too.
Later on, my dad would bring up strange things without me asking—making these offhand, half jokes about “pain relief” he’d made for my mom. Even as a kid, that felt wrong. I never wanted to ask for more because it didn’t feel safe. As I got older, I realised he struggled to control his emotions, and somehow I became the person who either had to validate his manic moods or bounce back better energy. So that’s what I did. No questions asked, just smiles.
Why Growing Up Felt Like Gaslighting Myself for Years
As I grew up, I think I started to get used to this strange mix of energy around me. It became easy to see others’ actions that I didn’t like as something unrelated to what was really happening inside me. Let’s just say that. I wanted to see love, respect, care, and safety. Honestly, I gaslit myself pretty hard from about age eight to sixteen. But that’s also where my healing began and where I’m learning to be kinder to myself. I was a kid—I didn’t know any better.
I feel like as I go further on this journey, because this feels good, I’ll have more details to share and be able to talk about it more clearly. Sometimes the things I’m working through are what I use to create something beautiful. It’s funny how focusing on the opposite of the negative helps me stop dwelling on it. So yeah, I’ll try to think about it more, but right now it’s hard.
Naturally, what comes to mind is when things really shifted. It all changed when my mom married my stepdad. My dad’s behaviour became harder and harder to understand. My mom started putting me in the middle, making me choose between them. I remember on Father’s Day, if I bought a “bigger” gift for my dad, my mom would pull me aside and tell me how much my stepdad would really appreciate it. That confused me.
At the same time, I knew my stepdad was using my mom to fulfill his own needs for gratitude, and that hurt. He would often look at other women and smile bigger at strangers he’d never met than he ever did at me or our family. It always felt like the life he wanted was just a couple steps away—but he was stuck with us. The life he had was a bit better than where he came from, but still far from what he dreamed of.
It wasn’t just the looks—it was physical and emotional too.
The Wild Nights That Changed Everything — Why I Had to Run to Find Myself
Why would I care? Because I had to do everything my heart was telling me — even when it felt like chaos. Imagine being 15, sneaking out in the middle of a farming field, no friends, no money, just figuring it out alone.. crying. Those wild nights led to some deep self-reflection. I kept asking myself, Taylor, you’re hurting. You say you don’t care, but why? Why does this feel so good? Don’t you want freedom? Don’t you want to be safe?
That’s what pushed me to move out halfway through grade 12. No money. No plan. And honestly? No feelings at all. Just pure, stubborn trust in myself and a fierce need to stand up for who I was becoming. I could feel my mom waiting for me to fall apart—like she was just waiting for me to crumble under all this pressure. And that hurt, because… what the hell, Mom? Your life choices put me in this position in the first place. Every time I ran to you about something—emotional or physical—you’d tell me he was working on himself or that I probably did something to deserve it. Even when you didn’t say it outright, the way you’d look at me or ask, “What did you do?” made it clear you thought I was the problem. Like, Mom, this man, regardless of who he is to us, just did something that made me feel so uncomfortable, and I told him to stop, but nothing changed. Instead of seeing the problem, you turned it on me. I guess I learned that if anyone had a problem, it was because I was telling the truth—but they weren’t ready to hear it. I don’t get saved. So nah, get outta my face. I was doing me, and you do you.
Once again, I was the one creating distance—“She’s going through something,” they said. The only thing I was going through were the booby traps set up by our family. Honestly, can you tell there’s a lot to unpack here? Haha, yeah, that’s an understatement.
But this was also when I found my first real connection with God. It’s not about telling anyone else what to believe—this is just my experience with what I believe. After crashing on my manager’s couch for a while (going sour), I scoured the internet and found a basement suite I could actually afford without being 18. I didn’t know at the time that the owner was the mom of a girl I barely knew from high school someone who, to this day, I’m pretty sure still doesn’t like me. Fair enough, though—we never really hung out, never followed each other, barely even spoke.
Back in high school, we were in the same dance class, and she and her friends used to make fun of me—laughing at me while I checked myself out in the mirror and played with my hair. The only reason I even knew about it was because a girl who was part of that group got paired with me for a dance project when I didn’t have a partner and later told me about it. Maybe she felt bad, but after that, we stayed dance partners every single class.
Anyway, there I was—stuck living in the only place I could afford—the basement, sharing a suite with one of the girls who openly made fun of me to her friends. It was brutal. I eventually moved out when I scraped together enough to get somewhere else, but those months were tough. I think my mom came to see me once, but only to help bring my stuff after I got the keys.
When Everything Fell Apart And What I Found Instead
That period was one of the hardest times in my life, but it’s also when I discovered how much I loved photography and being creative—it was my escape from everything falling apart. That passion grew and shaped me into who I am today, and honestly, it’s why I’m sharing this story now.
These small, messy, painful details make up everything I am. And I want people to know—no matter what I’ll always be open, real, and willing to talk about anything. Because that’s the only way to keep moving forward.
Time alone became more than just a way to escape, it became my foundation. In those quiet, lonely moments, I started peeling back the layers and discovering who I really was, beyond the chaos and pain. Photography and creativity didn’t just fill the silence — they became my voice, my way to make sense of a world that often felt confusing and cruel. It was the first time I felt like I had something real that belonged to me, something that no one could take away.
But don’t get it twisted…this journey isn’t wrapped up in a neat little bow. It’s messy, raw, and far from over. There are scars I haven’t shown, stories I haven’t told, and battles I’m still fighting in the shadows. If you think this is where it ends, think again. This is just the opening chapter.
So, if you’re ready for the real, unfiltered truth — the kind that challenges everything you think you know — stick around. Because the rest of the story? It’s darker, deeper, and way more complicated than you can imagine. And I’m only just getting started.
This is for anyone chasing something they love — while quietly feeling like it’s tearing them down.
Because sometimes the thing that’s supposed to be your safe space starts feeling heavy. And it usually starts small — learning how to just be. Alone. Uncomfortable. Taking up space when shrinking would be easier.
That was us… first time parents, newly engaged, running on no sleep, trying to keep up with content and still feel like ourselves. We had just brought our baby home to a space that held so many memories. That house meant something. But slowly, we started to notice shifts.
It was full of love — but it also held things we weren’t aligned with anymore.
Like the fact that family still had keys.
At the time, it made sense. It came from a place of trust and connection. But as our life changed — especially with a newborn — the setup just didn’t feel right for us anymore. I’d be mid-feed in the living room, barely dressed, and the door would open without warning. It wasn’t anyone’s fault. It just no longer worked.
That experience wasn’t about blame – it was about awareness.
It showed us how much we had changed. How our needs had changed. And how honouring that doesn’t mean we’re ungrateful or disconnected… it just means we’re growing.
Because sometimes growth asks you to reimagine what home looks like. And even the best chapters eventually give way to new ones.
If I don’t speak up for me — who will?
If I Do What’s Right for Me — Will You Still Like Me?
You’ve probably felt it too — that quiet question in the back of your mind: If you do what’s right for you… will they still like you? You’re not trying to hurt anyone’s feelings or make yours louder. You just need the space to be honest. It’s not about being dramatic or even “nice.” It’s about being real — truthful, clear, and loving. Real connection can hold both truths at once: yours and theirs. And if you don’t speak up for what’s real in you…um?
Let me keep it real for a sec.
I just moved out of a small town. And honestly? The questions started hitting quick: If I leave, will the people I’ve built with still want to work with me? If I can’t show up 24/7, are they still down? It’s that weird moment when excitement and self-doubt hit at the same time.
The truth is… I didn’t have everything figured out. I didn’t have a 10-step plan to calm the what “ifs”. But the more I sat in that house, the more I realized… I had outgrown it. The open door vibe we once loved? It started feeling cold. Like the energy didn’t match anymore.
And that’s when it clicked: If I didn’t pivot, I’d stay stuck doing things the old way, for people who might not even expect that of me anymore. Or want to only see me in that way –
This isn’t just fiction — it’s a reflection. Inspired by the real, raw feeling of walking away from something that once felt like everything.
The Launder
No one really knew who built The Launder. It sat just beyond the edge of the old grove, tucked between wild hills and the hush of ancient trees. It was said to bless the land, protect the bond of bloodlines, and keep the stories of the elders clean.
But the rules… they were never spoken. Only passed down in looks, in sighs, in the soft folding of hands that had given too much for too long.
When you arrive — not as a stranger, but as the next in line — you are given three tasks. Gilded in honor, but heavy in cost.
The first: Bring water from the low river to the highest cliff, every morning before sunbreak. Not for survival, but for devotion — a daily offering to prove you are willing to carry the weight of another’s comfort.
The second: When your first child is born, they are named not by you, but by the elder. They belong not to your heart alone, but to the legacy of the land — bound to serve the story, not their own.
And the third: Every woman must stand beneath The Mirror Tree — where bark turns to silver and reflects your shape, your stance, your soul. You are judged not by truth, but by tradition. By how small you can become in the name of keeping things “beautiful.”
They say it’s the way it’s always been. But lately, you’ve started to wonder: what if that doesn’t make it right?
The trees know. The wind pulls at your sleeves like a whisper.
And one morning, when the river’s too low to fill your jar — you pause. You don’t climb.
You don’t explain.
You just walk the long path home, empty-handed — but finally full of yourself.
What I’ve Learned Since Choosing Peace (Pssst… I’ve been out of my childhood house since 17)
Alright, real talk. Finding peace isn’t about running away — it’s about creating your own vibe. Here’s what’s been working for me:
Step 1: Carve out a little you zone. Grab your fave drink (coffee, tea, or heck, a fancy sparkling water), chill for 5 minutes, and just feel. No scrolling. No thinking about your to-do list. Just vibes. Do this enough, and your brain starts making calm your new default. Trust me. It’s magic.
Step 2: Start journaling about things YOU wanna try. Not what everyone else wants from you. Your dreams, your goals, your wild ideas. I swear, it’s like a happiness hack that keeps me locked in the present and actually excited about life.
Step 3: Pick up a hobby — the quirkier, the better. Paint, dance, build something, hit the gym, start a mini garden — whatever floats your boat. Seeing yourself level up in something? Confidence BOOSTED. Especially when life’s throwing curveballs (been there, worked two jobs with zero chill).
Step 4: Expect people to meet your energy. Love big? Get loved back big. Don’t care? Don’t be shocked if they don’t either. It’s a two-way street, friends.
Step 5: Keep loving hard — but only for those who deserve it. When people turn away, don’t chase or plead. Love them silently from a distance and focus on watering your own garden instead. Your energy is precious. Invest it where it grows, not where it drains.
✧ Why This Part Matters
— the world moves fast. You’re constantly giving, adjusting, performing, healing, and sometimes just trying to keep up. But when do you get to land?
That’s what this moment is for.
This little routine isn’t just cute self-care — it’s you reclaiming your nervous system, one breath at a time. It’s not about “fixing” yourself. It’s about reminding yourself: You’re safe. You’re enough. You’re allowed to take up space without proving anything.
When you do this — even for 5 minutes — you start building a version of “home” that can’t be taken away. No matter where you are or who’s around, you’ll carry a calm, confident you… with you.
This part is the reset. This part is the power. And honestly? You deserve this.
✧ Your Favourite Part Starts Here ✧
If you don’t have a routine yet, borrow this one — it’s simple, soft, and all yours.
☁️ Step 1: Find a space that feels calm. Could be your room floor, a sunny spot in the kitchen, even your parked car.
🌿 Step 2: Sit on the ground. Deep breaths in, long breaths out. Let your body know it’s safe to just be.
🍵 Step 3: Set the vibe. Play your favourite song, sip something warm, light a scent you love, or grab a little snack.
🫀 Step 4: Tap your chest for 30 seconds. While you breathe, imagine releasing anything you’ve rejected or pushed away today:
Someone said something that stung? Let it move through you. Felt out of place or misunderstood? Breathe through it. You’re not broken — you’re becoming.
🌎 Step 5: Say this (or think it): “I am my own home. I carry peace with me. I’m allowed to take up space here.”
It might feel a little “woo” or weird at first. But imagine if it does work? You’d walk into any space with quiet confidence — knowing you don’t need a perfect place to feel at home. Because you’ve built one inside.
Creative Credits
This moment was built with heart — and we couldn’t have done it without our incredible team.
✨ Model: Sydney May — a ZealUnity muse who brought the calm, the power, and the story to life. 📸 Photography: Captured by the talented Okanagan Portraits , from the Zeal Social Management media team.
We love our people. Every frame, every word, every moment — it’s made better because of you.
In this story, you’ll find real signs that might help you on your own journey—
The timing didn’t make sense, I wasn’t looking, and honestly, I almost didn’t say anything. But something told me to go for it.
If you’ve been wondering how to know when it’s right—or how to trust yourself when something feels different—this one’s for you.
Simple, real, and maybe exactly what you need to hear right now.
Wait… I’m Only 20
How I accidentally found something real, what it taught me, and the signs that showed me I was ready—before I even knew it.
So here’s the vibe: I had just graduated, and, honestly, I thought I had it all figured out—or at least I wanted to think I did. You know that whole Malibu Pink Dream where you marry the guy you first kissed and everything just falls into place? Yeah, that was the fantasy. But, spoiler alert, life had other plans.
Before I met Mason, I had come out of a relationship that just… wasn’t good. I felt confused, honestly. Like I didn’t know who I was anymore. That age—18 to 20—it’s wild. You feel like you’re supposed to know what you’re doing, but really you’re just starting the climb and it’s super uncomfy. I was living alone, barely holding it together, trying to get my photography hustle going. My family was going through it too, so everything just felt heavy.
But I kept working on myself, even if I was hurting. I couldn’t see what was next, but I felt something coming. Then one random night, I was at this little town bar—taking pics for content, doing my thing—and I look up and see this guy. The night before, I had been so done. I literally drank water, said a little prayer, and asked to be guided to my person + purpose. I think I saw the method on TikTok? Either way, I believed it.
And boom. The next night, there I was, off the clock at this bar I’d been going to forever, and suddenly I’m sitting across from someone I’d never seen before—even though we literally knew everyone in common. It was surreal. I almost walked away, but something told me to stay. Trust your gut. That night was the start of something I never could’ve imagined.
What Made This a Green Flag (And Not Just Another “He’s Different I Swear” Moment 💍)
In the beginning, it’s hard to really tell if something’s going to be real. You just can’t know right away—but what you can do is look for the subtle signs. Are they giving you full energy and effort? Do they keep the conversation going by asking deeper questions when things start to lull? Are they tuned into your energy and actually respecting it—or just complimenting how you look?
For me, I knew I wasn’t walking into another gaslight-lovebomb-repeat cycle. I had my flags all the way up. One of the biggest was: if he talks about himself, does he loop me into it? Does he offer the same level of listening I’m giving? Because if not, I’m not sitting through that again.
With Mason, something was different. Even now, one of his biggest green flags is the way he listens. Like, really listens. He lets the space sit in a convo and doesn’t rush it—but somehow he always responds like he’s been taking mental notes with a pen and paper. That patience and presence? That’s rare. That’s what told me I wasn’t just being heard—I was being understood.
That night at the bar? We talked for 7 hours straight—barely touched our drinks. No distractions, just us locked in, like the world paused so we could actually see each other.
Biggest Green Flag? The Energy Had Depth.
One of my biggest turn-ons? Spirituality. Not in the “let me read your birth chart and disappear” way—but more in the vibe of someone who can have open, honest conversations without needing to wrap it all up. Just someone who can flow with the conversation and take the time to walk through the thoughts together. I love people who inspire me, and it doesn’t even have to be some deep, life-changing thing. It could be the way you make your morning coffee, the energy in your space, or how you move through your day.
And you know what I just thought of… People who are great at what they do usually fall into one of two categories: either super structured, but a bit off in other ways, or laid-back, dependable, with a solid work ethic. The second one? That’s the kind of energy I was looking for.
When I first saw his place, he had a rose quartz in the living room. Not gonna lie, it wasn’t placed in the most organized way—it was a little random. But it wasn’t about the placement. It was the fact that he had it there at all. That small detail said way more about him than any perfect setup could.
Structure? Check.
Why IT Got So Serious🤍
I grew up seeing a lot of divorce in my family, so I guess I always had a different view of relationships. But even through all that, I still believed in love. I didn’t know exactly what it would look like, but I knew I wanted something real. A family, a solid foundation, but not in the traditional sense.
So yeah, being serious this young? Definitely shocks some people. But honestly, I was over the hookup culture and all the energy-draining stuff. Meeting people, going out, trying to align with people who aren’t even on the same vibe…Exhausting. I get it if you’re still all about that, I was too. But things hit differently when you start wanting more.
Girls’ night? Used to be all about talking about the guys but now.. I just want to curl up with my person, watch TV, and not deal with any negativity. It’s not that I don’t love my friends—I do!—but I just don’t have the energy for drama anymore. I didn’t realize how much I needed that peace until I found it.
Just lucky I found my person.
What I Wasn’t Going to Settle For: Early Talks
There’s a lot of conversation these days about what roles we choose to take on in relationships, and while everyone’s path is different, I think how we’ve been raised plays a huge part in shaping what we desire. For some, starting a family is the ultimate goal. For others, it’s a different kind of fulfillment. And personally, I’m just grateful to have the freedom to choose what feels right for me.
That being said, I wasn’t going to let go of my voice or compromise on the things that matter most to me. I had some non-negotiables, and here’s what they were.
Honesty above all else. It might not always be easy, but keeping things to yourself to spare feelings never works out. In my view, it’s always better to speak up respectfully. In the end, it’s us against the world.
We keep our individuality. We each make time for the things we love to do, and we support each other in that. It’s important not to lose ourselves in the process.
Trust is essential, but it’s not about just saying “yes” to everything. If someone changes their behavior intentionally, that’s a red flag. It’s not a “miscommunication,” it’s something deeper. And I wasn’t about to ignore that.
Mason? He’s good. He’s solid. He’s real. And I want to share this because I believe we all deserve to find someone who respects what we bring to the table.
Growing Together: Like… Actually
You know that feeling when everything just starts syncing up? Like suddenly your goals hit different, your confidence goes up, and your daily routine doesn’t feel like a mess anymore? That’s when you know you’re growing with someone, not just dating them.
It’s giving power couple energy—but make it real. You feel more like you, not less. They know your moods, your fav songs, your weird little habits, and somehow it all makes you feel safe but still excited.
And listen, if you’re constantly feeling off outside the relationship, like drained or second-guessing everything… it’s a sign. Being with someone shouldn’t mute your magic. Together or apart, the vibe should still feel full. If not? That’s not growth—it’s a pause.
🎯 20 Sneaky Questions to Ask Your Partner (+ What Their Answers Could Say About Them)
If you could live anywhere for a year, where would it be?
🌍 Big dreamer = adventurous.
🏠 Same hometown = loves comfort.
Would you rather plan the trip or just show up?
📋 Planner = responsible.
🛫 Spontaneous = fun but maybe chaotic.
What’s your dream Saturday?
🧘♀️ Chill = calm energy.
🎉 Wild = thrill seeker.
What’s something you secretly wish you were amazing at?
🎨 Creative stuff = deep soul.
💼 Business stuff = ambition coded.
What’s your go-to when you’re stressed?
🏃♂️ Gym/active = healthy outlet.
🍸 Party = 🚩 maybe distraction issues.
What’s a dealbreaker for you in friendships?
🚪 Instant exit = strong boundaries.
🥴 “Idk” = red flag… lack of standards.
If money wasn’t a thing, what would you do all day?
💸 Hustler mindset = long-term player.
🍃 Vibe-only = might struggle with pressure.
What was your favourite age so far?
🎈Childhood = still healing?
🌟 Recent = growing & evolving.
Do you believe everything happens for a reason?
✨ Yes = emotionally deep.
🥱 No = might need more convincing.
Would you rather be respected or loved?
🧠 Respected = stable and serious.
💕 Loved = sensitive king/queen.
What’s your toxic trait?
😇 Honest = self-aware.
🙈 Avoids = no thanks.
What’s a weird food combo you secretly like?
🥑 Quirky = fun to live with.
🚫 “Nothing” = boring sorry not sorry.
What’s something you’d want to get better at in relationships?
💬 Communication = green flag.
🙃 “I’m good” = delulu alert.
How do you usually apologize?
📖 Talks it out = healthy.
😬 Avoids it = prepare for headaches.
Would you rather win an award or hear it privately from someone you love?
🏆 Public = external validation vibes.
🥹 Private = heart-centered.
What’s something random that makes you feel rich?
🧺 Clean sheets? 🚿 Long showers? They appreciate the little things.
What’s your favourite part of your day usually?
☀️ Morning = motivated.
🌙 Night = deep thinker.
What’s your favourite way to recharge?
🔥 Alone time = independent.
🧑🤝🧑 Around people = extrovert coded.
How do you like spending holidays?
Family = loyal and sentimental.
✈️ Getaway trips = loves freedom.
If you could master one random skill, what would it be?
🎸 Guitar = romantic tendencies.
(without making it weird or overthinking it)
Stay loud in your little ways. Your jokes, your random interests, your way of doing things? That’s literally what makes you you. Don’t “soften” yourself to fit some imaginary vibe. If you’re goofy, be goofy. If you’re quiet but witty, let it snipe out in moments.
Confidence ≠ being the loudest. Confidence is just being sure you don’t need to perform. You’re not auditioning. You’re just existing. Let the energy come to you, not the other way around.
You’re not “too much.” Real ones want the full you — the layered, crazy, chill, passionate, whatever-you-are-today you. If you feel yourself shrinking around someone… that’s info, babe, not a sign you need to get smaller.
Open heart, wise mind. Stay soft and open to love, new conversations, and cute little surprises — but keep your standards, your goals, and your non-negotiables on lock. (being open doesn’t mean you gotta abandon your instincts.)
Silence doesn’t mean something’s wrong. You don’t have to fill every second with talking or energy. Being able to just exist together is hot. Comfort is loud in its own way.
Remind yourself: you’re the prize too. Not in an ego way. In a mutual respect, mutual effort, mutual energy kind of way. You’re not “lucky” they like you. They’re lucky they get to experience you in your light.
23, a Baby, and Building a Life Together
If you would’ve told me a few years ago that by 23 I’d have a baby with the boy I met at the bar and we’d be running our own businesses… I would’ve laughed and gone right back to overthinking my entire life in my notes app. 😂
But somehow — here we are. And honestly? It’s better than anything I could’ve planned. Not perfect. Not some Pinterest board 24/7. Just real. And really good.
When I look around now… the baby, the work, the everyday memories we’re stacking — I feel nothing but grateful that I listened to myself. Even when it was easier to just isolate. Even when shutting down felt safer than risking being seen. Even when growing felt like too much.
Choosing to stay soft, choosing love, choosing to show up for my own life — it didn’t steal anything from me. It gave me everything I didn’t even know I wanted yet.
And the wild part? It’s still just getting started. More babies. More businesses. More memories I haven’t even dreamed up yet.
All because I decided to bet on myself and stay open when the good stuff came in.
Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this, make sure to follow and subscribe for more.
Just a little reminder—content created through ZEALSocial and with our ZEALUNITY models is always credited to us. We make sure everyone involved gets the love they deserve.
Big shoutout to the amazing models for this shoot: Sarah, Hammad, Sydney, and Olivia! And a huge thank you to photographer Georgia and the ZEAL media team for bringing it all together. We’re so grateful for everyone involved in making this shoot come to life! Stay tuned for more!
An Editorial on Hiding Who You Are—And What You See When You Finally Stop
Now that I’m finally becoming who I am, I see the pretending more clearly in everyone else. And sometimes I still ask myself— Was it wrong to play along, even when I knew it wasn’t real?
@ZEALUNITY
When you’re younger, you can easily fall into playing a role you’re not sure of—doing things just to fit in or to make others happy without fully understanding the impact. But as you get older, you start to realize the difference between actions done without meaning and actions done with intention. The real danger comes when you’ve already shared your feelings, and people continue to act without consideration.
When you don’t address it, when you don’t speak up, it starts to look like you’re easy to manipulate. It’s not about being passive anymore; it’s about being aware of the choices you’re making and protecting your peace. Letting things slide is like giving away a piece of yourself, and eventually, you’re left wondering where you went and who’s been controlling the narrative.
Someone Else’s Narrative
Identifying situations that don’t serve you starts with recognizing the signs. One of the clearest examples is a relationship that doesn’t lift you up, a connection that leaves you feeling drained instead of fulfilled. If you’re unsure whether this is happening, ask yourself: What does happiness look like to me? What things truly make me happy? Have I been doing them?
If all your answers revolve around other people—how they make you feel or what they bring to your life—it’s time to pause and reflect. Ask yourself why you’re so attached to this person. If it’s just a “feeling” you can’t quite explain, be honest with yourself: you’re likely easy to manipulate. You need to know who you are first, before you can figure out who someone else is in your life. Understanding yourself is the foundation of any healthy relationship. Without that, you might find yourself lost in someone else’s expectations, losing sight of what truly makes you happy.
2. Quit Pretending: Own Your Truth and Level Up
It’s crucial to never mask yourself for anyone. When you do, it’s obvious—people can see that you’re not being genuine, and they’ll pick up on your insecurities. It leaves you vulnerable, an easy target for manipulation. The real you gets hidden, and others begin to shape their perception of who you are based on what they want you to be, not who you truly are.
If you feel anxiety just for being yourself, it’s time to ask some tough questions. Do my actions align with my future goals? Am I making a positive effort every day to move forward, or am I just putting in the effort to stay where I am? Living should feel like freedom, even on the tough days that bring sadness. You are here for a reason, and the question is—what could you be doing right now to better yourself?
Recovering After You’ve Broken Free
Sometimes, after too many experiences that leave you feeling drained, it feels like you’re stuck on your floor or bed for days, consumed by emotions. It might not seem like part of the process, but honestly, it’s necessary. Let yourself feel it. Don’t let others distract you from it—it’s your moment to process. And when you’re ready to move on, do things that help express the rest of what you’re feeling.
Look in the mirror and take a second to appreciate how amazing you are, even if it doesn’t feel like it in the moment. Put on your favourite song, relax, and focus on doing absolutely nothing—just being. It’s harder than it sounds, but sometimes it’s exactly what you need. Look up at the sky and allow yourself to dream, to believe in what’s next.
For me, one of my go-to moves is to go to Walmart or dig through my old clothes to make an outfit and shoot it. I started doing that when I was 9—putting on Halloween costumes, grabbing makeup, and making videos with a National Geographic kids’ camera. But now, I do it my own way. I take the same creative energy, but it’s evolved into something that’s uniquely mine. It’s how I express myself, even when I feel like I’ve got no words left.
Confronting with Clarity: Staying Healthy Through Difficult Conversations
After you’ve given yourself some time to decompress, it’s time to face the situation more seriously, but with clarity. Reacting impulsively, especially when emotions are running high, only fuels the conflict. Often, you’ve been contributing just as much energy to the situation—whether you realize it or not. And sometimes, the other person might be aware of this, using your emotional reaction to manipulate the situation and pin it on you later.
Take a moment to breathe and check yourself. Don’t let anyone control you, even if they’re trying to provoke a reaction. That’s often exactly what they want. Own your actions, express your feelings clearly, and create space for open communication. Let them share their perspective, but keep the conversation civil and respectful. Close things off on a positive note, leaving no room for bad blood.
Once you’ve said what you need to, let it go. You’ve validated your feelings, communicated your truth, and didn’t let emotions take over. You didn’t use threats or manipulation. That’s growth. Don’t expect them to understand immediately, and if they respond negatively, it only confirms the energy they bring. Even in heated moments, it’s possible to handle things with respect, without letting them control how you feel.
Stay Connected for More Insight
Follow us for more content to help you keep moving forward. It’s about facing things head-on, staying true to yourself, and owning your story.
The line between self-love and seeking validation is becoming increasingly blurred, especially for brands. As a creative director who’s worked with a wide range of brands—local, Canadian, you name it—I’ve seen firsthand how things have shifted. Here’s the tea: I remember when you’d post on your story, asking for free models and support, reaching out to people to help bring your vision to life when you couldn’t offer them much in return. But now, when those same people—who helped build your platform and supported you from the beginning—come to you with more experience and knowledge, suddenly they’re “not what you want.” You’ve got no interest in working with them anymore.
Is it because they’ve grown and gained value, and now they have the confidence to demand better? You can’t claim to be all about self-love, empowerment, and positivity, and then turn your back on the very people who helped get you where you are. If you’re truly about self-love, you should be embracing and elevating those who’ve had your back from the start—not dismissing them when they’ve grown and can offer more.
So, what changed? Is it that these people now know their worth, or is it that your brand doesn’t know what it stands for anymore? It’s getting harder to tell whether this is about real self-love or just chasing something shallow and convenient. The lines are blurring, and the truth is starting to show.
Who Buys, Who’s in Control? Let’s Take a Look at That.
Let’s zoom out and take a look at the bigger picture. According to the U.S. Census Bureau and the Small Business Administration (SBA), as of 2021, 40% of businesses in the U.S. are female-owned. That’s a significant leap from 1990, when female-owned businesses made up just 24%, compared to 76% male-owned. This progress is undeniable, but it raises an important question: are these numbers growing because of real, systemic change, or are they simply reflecting who holds the power to offer opportunities? Similarly, while white-owned businesses still account for about 88%-90%, minority-owned businesses (Black, Hispanic, Asian, and Indigenous entrepreneurs) make up only 10-12%. These figures show progress, but they also highlight that barriers like limited access to capital, systemic discrimination, and fewer networking opportunities are still deeply ingrained. So, while the numbers have shifted, it’s worth asking whether the system itself has truly evolved.
As a young, white, blonde-haired, blue-eyed female, I’ve felt this harvest. When I was newer, with less to offer and fewer credentials, people assessed what they could take from me. It looked like they were giving me more opportunities, but in reality, they just thought they could use me. The same dynamic plays out when we talk about self-love and validation—where individuals or brands pick and choose based on what benefits them. It’s easy to let others define your worth, but when you do, the real question becomes: if you let them control the narrative, who truly owns you? Are we really loving ourselves, or are we just playing a numbers game, where the only thing that matters is who has more to offer?
That shift—happening only about 30 years ago—was a pivotal moment, but while the players may have become smarter and more adaptive, the fundamental rules of the system remain largely unchanged. The “I ride you, you ride me” mentality is still alive: you do what’s needed to make others happy, and in return, you’re offered opportunities. But how can anyone genuinely find happiness or fulfillment when they’re not at peace with the world or industry they’re in? Too many people follow the same path out of fear or the necessity of financial security. But when that happens, it’s not self-love driving the decisions—it’s the pursuit of validation, often at the cost of personal worth.
In the end, we have to ask ourselves: are we truly embracing self-love, or are we still operating within a system where the rules haven’t really changed, just the players? In a world where value is often measured by what we can give or achieve, not who we are, it’s easy to get lost in the cycle of validation. The lines between self-love and seeking approval, worth and worthiness, have all started to blur. As we navigate this evolving landscape, we must confront the truth: the change we seek may not come from the numbers or external markers, but from within. If we can shift the focus from external validation to genuine self-worth, we can break free and truly embrace the power of self-love.
Finding the Right Fit: How to Pitch Yourself as a Creative
When you’re pitching yourself to a business as a creative, make sure you really check out the brand first. Does their vibe match yours? Look at how diverse they are—who’s behind the brand, and how do they show up to the public? Are they open to change, or have they been doing the same thing for a long time? Think about what you want to get out of working with them. The right brand should let you be yourself and help you grow, not try to change who you are. Make sure it feels like a good fit for you.
Don’t get too excited about everything – When you’re starting out, everything might look awesome, but not every opportunity is the right fit for you.
Build your portfolio, but choose carefully – Yes, portfolio work is important, but who you work with matters just as much. The right people can open doors for you.
Learn to say no – Saying no is part of protecting yourself. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to turn it down.
Don’t be afraid to leave – If the brand doesn’t give you that “homey” feeling or respect your boundaries, run for the hills—like, right now! Your peace matters.
Pay attention to how they make you feel – If they don’t make you feel valued or at ease, it’s time to walk away.
Bottom Line
The more you love and trust yourself, the less likely you are to end up in situations where you’re being used. Your gut will always pick up on bad vibes—it won’t let you ignore them. You just have to trust that feeling and speak up when something’s off. If they can say whatever they want to you, why can’t you speak your truth too? Don’t let the fear of missing out on opportunities stop you from using your voice. The right opportunities will come when you stand firm in what you believe. Ask yourself: Are you going to be part of the problem, or part of the solution?
Huge thanks to our incredible creative team! This month, as we focus on love and share tips for navigating the world around us, we couldn’t have done it without you all.
In a small town, nothing stays secret for long—especially when every conversation is a thread in a web of rumours, alliances, and hidden motives. One casual chat at lunch can set off a chain reaction that spirals out of control. You might not even know it’s happening, but trust me—someone is watching, listening, and waiting for their moment to use it to their advantage.
Talk to Kim after work. Kim’s sister? She’s the one who “stalks” you on Instagram but acts like you’re invisible in public. And in the blink of an eye, what started as a simple exchange can become ammunition in a battle you didn’t even know you were fighting.
In a small town like this, it’s not just about who you know—it’s about who’s using you, and who’s about to turn the tables.
PROOF
Click, Flash – Screenshot. Did you forget the trail you left behind? It’s curious how quickly admiration can shift when it’s easier to rewrite the story. Did you forget how much you loved it?
One moment, It’s admiration and validation; the next, denial and shifting.
Here’s the thing: People’s perceptions of you are fluid—and often, they aren’t about you at all. They’re about the context, the relationships, and the insecurities others project onto you. That’s why one day you’re the hero, and the next, you’re a ghost.
So, how do you deal with it? First, don’t internalize the shift. Admiration and validation may feel good, but they are external factors, and they don’t define your worth. Secondly, don’t chase the approval of others. Instead, find validation within yourself. When the pendulum swings from admiration to denial, the only person who can truly validate you is you.
Why Some People Want You to Chase Them –
1.) It Feeds Their Ego: When someone knows you’re chasing them, it makes them feel good about themselves. They feel important and wanted, which boosts their confidence and self-esteem.
2.) They Enjoy the Game: For some, the chase itself is exciting. Keeping you interested and unsure makes them feel powerful. It adds drama and keeps things interesting for them.
3.) They’re Afraid of Being Vulnerable: Some people keep you chasing because they’re afraid to get too close or open up. By keeping their distance, they protect themselves from getting hurt or rejected.
4.) They Want Control: By having you chase them, they stay in control of the relationship. They decide when to be close and when to pull away, which can make them feel secure.
Using Others for Growth (From a Healthy Perspective)
1.)Use others as a mirror to build self-worth When someone makes you chase them, it’s an opportunity to reflect on your own sense of self-worth. Instead of seeking validation from them, you can use this experience to remind yourself that your value comes from within, not from someone else’s approval.
2.)Use emotional detachment to gain perspective Chasing someone can make you emotionally entangled. Use this situation to practice detachment, learning to care for people without letting their actions control your emotional state. By detaching, you gain more clarity and control over your feelings.
3.) Use the opportunity to master emotional control When you’re in a chase, emotions can run high—frustration, insecurity, or doubt. Use these moments to practice emotional control! Learning to stay calm and centered, no matter the circumstances. This strengthens your emotional resilience and helps you respond rather than react.
Fun Ways to Celebrate Your Growth After Overcoming the Chase
Throw a “Victory” Party (Just for You)
Sometimes the best celebrations are solo.
Movie marathon: Watch your favourite feel-good movies or binge-watch a series you’ve been putting off.
Dance party: Put on your favourite playlist and dance around your living room like no one’s watching. Let loose and celebrate your freedom.
Guilt-free treat: Order your favourite meal or dessert (ice cream, pizza, sushi—whatever feels like a treat) and savour it.
Follow along for more insider tips on how to become the most upgraded version of yourself—whether it’s mastering emotional control, setting healthy boundaries, or learning to love yourself more fully.
In a world where opportunities often disguise themselves, it’s easy to mistake that self serving drive—an ego chasing validation – for true growth. When someone enters your space with smooth words but a hollow intent, it’s time to ask yourself: Why are they using me? And why can’t they create what they desire on their own? This story explores the line between trust and exploitation, between real inspiration and those who come only to take.
In a neon-lit city, where creativity thrived and innovation pulsed through the streets, there was a shop unlike any other. It wasn’t just a place to buy—it was a space where energy and inspiration merged, each piece crafted with a depth and authenticity that people could feel the moment they walked in. The owner, a woman who could shift her form as fluidly as the city’s ever changing pulse, infused the shop with her spirit. Some days, it felt organic, calm, with soft lighting and natural lines; other days, it was bold and electric, filled with sharp angles and vivid colours. The shop reflected her—always adapting, but always alive with creativity.
One day, a figure entered. They were sleek, dressed in clothes that seemed to shift with each movement, their gaze sharp and penetrating. When their eyes met hers, there was something unsettling about it. It wasn’t curiosity or warmth—it was cold, calculating, filled with a quiet pride, as if they knew more than she did. But, she reminded herself to trust, to open her heart as she had been asked to do. Maybe this was the connection she had been waiting for.
The figure spoke of collaboration—of blending visions, of creating something bigger than both of them. Their words were smooth, their tone confident. For a moment, the shopkeeper allowed herself to believe it was a connection she could grow with. She shared the heart of her work, the long hours, the passion, the risk that made every creation real. She opened herself to the possibility, hoping it could help the vision evolve.
Days later, a new shop appeared on the same street. At first, she thought nothing of it, but as she looked closer, something felt wrong. The designs, the colours, the energy…it was all too familiar. Her heart dropped. The figure hadn’t come to collaborate—they had come to steal. They had used her heart to take what wasn’t theirs and twist it into something hollow, serving ego.
The whispers spread quickly. The new shop was sleek and polished – The designs were the same, the energy was the same, but it lacked the soul. The authenticity that made her creations come alive was gone, felt to be replaced by a surface-level imitation.
But the shopkeeper didn’t linger on it for long. As soon as the realization hit, something inside her shifted. It was like a veil had lifted, and she finally understood: creativity wasn’t something you could steal. It wasn’t a commodity to be taken, repackaged, and sold. It was a pulse—a living force that couldn’t be replicated.
And so, she changed. She shape-shifted—not just in form, but in spirit. She moved on, slipping away from the city that tried to capture her essence. No one could find her now, no one could trace the source of her inspiration. She was gone—fading like a shadow, always ahead, always shifting.
Her work, however, lived on untouched, untraceable. The city could attempt to copy, to mimic, but they would never find the spark that made it real. The true source of her creativity was forever hidden, constantly evolving, just out of reach.
The advice behind this story is about recognizing when someone is trying to take advantage of you and how to avoid it. Here’s how you can protect yourself:
Ask Questions: If someone wants something from you, ask them questions about what they really want. Genuine people will have specific answers. Those looking to take advantage will give vague or general responses.
Trust Your Own Voice: Don’t judge someone by their title or what others say about them. Focus on who they are to you. Your own experience with them matters more than anyone else’s opinion.
Stay Open but Guarded: Be willing to connect with others, but also know when to step back. Not every person or opportunity is worth your time. Rotten fruit falls on its own—you don’t need to waste your energy trying to fix it.
In short, trust your instincts, ask the right questions, and don’t let others use you. Stay true to yourself and let people prove their worth.
Clout chasers, fakes, and foes— Who’s real, and who’s just waiting to be exposed? Only you know, with those words that trigger, Maybe it’s time for you to look a little deeper.
Creative Team
A big thank you to everyone who made this vision come to life. Your talent and hard work made all the difference.
Makeup and Hair: Rayna and her team @estheticzbrayna, you worked magic to create the perfect looks.
Photography: @okanganportraits, your shots captured the essence of the shoot beautifully.
Media and Social Management: Zeal Social Management, thanks for handling the digital side and helping us share the project with the world.
Set and Makeup Concept: @_ge0de, your creativity set the tone and brought everything together.
Model: Kirat @kirat_d, your energy and presence brought the concept to life in ways we couldn’t have imagined.
This set of images in this collection was inspired by the raw, unapologetic journey of reclaiming yourself through music, movement, and love. A journey that doesn’t ask for permission, but demands to be seen, heard, and felt.
In a dark room, 8-16, she sat alone, the pulse of LED lights and the weight of bass surrounding her. Outside, the world was chaos—anger, confusion, her mom’s voice always telling her she wasn’t enough. But in here, she found something real.
With the music blasting, heart racing, she let go of the past. No longer crushed under her stepdad’s rage, or the weight of her mom’s whispered shame. The yelling, the names—gone. She screamed, releasing it all—the hurt, the pressure, the suffocating expectations.
She let go of the need to be anything they told her to be. No more guilt. No more ego pulling her down. Just the sound, the freedom, the space to breathe.
She remembered what it was like to dance without fear—weightless, free, untouchable. That was her power. No matter how loud the world got, no matter how much they tried to break her, she wouldn’t fall.
In the darkest moments, there’s always a light waiting. And in that light, she found the strength to rise, heal, and love herself. Because when you finally love yourself, nothing—not her mom’s voice, not her past—can keep you down.
Here’s the advice:
Dance like a child—without weight, without fear.
Check out of the negativity at the door.
Trust the messages you receive, whether they come from your own heart or from the ancestors who guide you. They are always with you.
Give to yourself, and you will be able to give to others. What you give willingly will always come back to you threefold.
Know that the hardest times will pass. It might not feel like it now, but the pain will fade like the music.
And when the world feels like it’s working against you, don’t let it win. Stand tall, be strong, and let them see who you are.
Love is the antidote to everything. It expands, it heals, and it aligns. The more you love yourself, the more you spread that love to the world. There is no room for negativity when you are fully aligned with the power of love. It’s in this space that you grow, and as you grow, you naturally become the change you wish to see in the world.
MEDIA : @ZEALSOCIALMANAGEMENT
So, if you feel like you’re at the edge, screaming in silence, remember: You are never alone. Your story isn’t over yet. The music is still playing, and the dance of life is waiting for you to step into it, fully and fearlessly.
Follow along for more stories, tips, and ways to reclaim your power.
Behind the Scenes: The Creative Team
This project wouldn’t have come to life without the incredible talent behind the scenes. Here’s the dream team that brought it all together:
Makeup & Hair: Rayna and her team @estheticzbrayna
Photographer: @okanaganportraits
Media & Social Management: Zeal Social Management
Set & Makeup Concept: @_ge0de
Model: @shivana_22 (ZealUnity Model Community)
While the stunning visuals feature the work of our talented model, this story isn’t about her—it’s about the message she helped bring to life. This is a story for anyone who’s ever felt the weight of expectation, the chaos of the world pressing down, and the power that comes with reclaiming your voice and space. The message is universal, and Shivana was the perfect canvas to express it.
A huge thank you to everyone who brought their energy and creativity to this project!
