Today we’d like to introduce you to Iv Mercedes
Hi Iv, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My story starts with trial and error. To quote the great Maya Angelou: “You do what you know , but now that you know better you do better.’ For a long time I felt I had no control over my life. My sister and I moved around alot when we were young. My mom moved to the United States when I was 5 my sister was 10. We moved around from family member to family member in Spain and for one year to Africa before moving to United States 5 years later. I remember telling myself not to get attached to places or friends wherever i moved after leaving Africa. I kind of lived my early adult years running from bonds, responsibility, accountability. Eventhough, I was working, living independently, mentally i detached and moved around to different jobs, living arrangements and relationships. Becoming the best version of myself , took reflection, accountability and courage. I wouldn’t change anything my past. My childhood was preparing me for my abundant destiny of travel, meaningful relationships personal and professional, opening a girl’s camp, becoming a catalog model to and be the hero of my own life. I am learning to trust the process in all areas of my life.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It hasn’t been a smooth road. I am hard headed, I learn things the hard way. Also, the power of my mind is so important. Having mental strength is paramount to overcoming lives struggles itself, my mind controls my emotions and actions. Whatever, i tell my mind i will believe. I use to be so mechanical in my trauma because that’s all i knew. I deserve the best that life has to offer. I cannot escape lives struggles along the way. I can control how I handle and react to them from my view of experience of trial an error . I am capable, worthy , prepared. I accept good and bad along the way
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am proud that my heart hasn’t hearten through heart break, disappointment or some hard reality checks. What sets me apart from others is my my past, present and future . I believe in self-preservation in love and war on myself. I protect my peace at the gateway. A better version of me requires a better version of you. Let’s match that energy
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Advice to to those who are starting out on a self-love journey, be patient with yourself, laugh at yourself, affirm yourself knowing you deserve better. Everyday is not going to be positive or you will not see progress every day. Talk yourself through the waiting, the in-between of your prayers. Patience is truly a virtue
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Kia Cadwell Photography