How joy, authenticity, and unfiltered presence made a bigger impact than perfection ever could.

Originally published April 2019

A week after stepping on the TEDx stage, I got the photos back—and my first thought was, “Damn, I should’ve worn better shapewear.” But then I saw the images. Not just the lumps and bumps I fixated on, but the unfiltered joy on my face. The genuine connection in the room. The alignment.

My talk was about collaboration, transparency, and authenticity. So no, I wasn’t going to photoshop my body to fit a cultural standard of polish. This is who I am. A woman filled with love, purpose, and passion. Heavier than I want to be? Sure. But far more interested in moving the world than shrinking myself to fit it.

As my friend Joumana reminded me: it’s not how people look, it’s how they make you feel. I felt amazing on that stage. Judging from the audience? They did too.

Let this be your reminder: your perceived imperfections are not a valid reason to delay your purpose. Life is too rich, too delicious, too urgent to be stalled by insecurities. Go. Speak. Dance.

You’re ready.