We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Alysha Monique. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Alysha below.

Alright, Alysha thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being an artist or creative force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?

I really love being an artist and creative. I’d be remiss not to note the challenges in my experience, though. I am eternally gratefully for the opportunities placed in my life and those I’ve attracted myself. I know what it’s like to work a regular job, as that was experience BEFORE and during my career as an artist. I’ve found I do much better living under my own terms and agreements, rather than someone else. I love my autonomy so I highly value my gift and what it continuously brings to me.

Alysha, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m a full-time creative that also, teaches the youth and does energy work. I’ve been doing something and everything related to music all of my life. I started in my hometown church choir at around 3-4 years old. But, even before then, I’d been singing, playing and creating music in my home as young child. I offer live music and entertainment services to parties that want to amplify or energize their parties, private events, weddings, etc. I also teach music in schools and privately. I am authentically me and that sets me apart in a world where everyone wants to be someone other than themselves. I am proud of my brand and who I’ve become over the years of school and real-life training. I love to be me and be free and I know there’s so many others aiming for that type of life as well. I am merely a reflection.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

I had to unlearn that seeking approval shouldn’t be my aim in life. I was raised to cater, prime and protect those around me. But I found that I was losing a part of myself every time I gave too much of myself. In my business, familial, romantic and platonic relationships, I always tended to want to be liked, or loved. I know it took so much from me and my own autonomy. It’s as if I just felt the need to be granted approval in others instead of finding it within myself. And, I learned that we as humans can be fickle, so it made me redefine what approval looked like for me. I want to be valued, respected and treated with love. That’s it.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

The Four Agreements and The Fifth Agreement by Don Miguel Ruiz.

Life-changing texts for me. They both remind me of basic pillars to live this life openly, freely, and boldly. Reminding me to not take anything personally, to be a person of integrity and impeccable with my word, to not make assumptions of anything, and always do my best. These pillars help to build freedom and breaks down the mind from being assimilated and domesticated. We are meant to be free on this plane.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://amcelroyhodges1294.wixsite.com/alysha-monique
• Instagram: @alyshamonique
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088406424208&mibextid=LQQJ4d
• Twitter: @a.monique94
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@AlyshaMonique?si=JzIdN5vjnIrmxicc

Image Credits
Janet M Takiyama Kwabena Foli Kenneth Leftridge Jr.