Reality of being an Influencer!

Hi guys!

Today is all about what it's REALLY like being an influencer (the good and the stressful)!

I've been working full time as a content creator/blogger/influencer for 3 years now and although I love what I do and I'm so beyond grateful to able to do it (thanks to all of you!), I have to admit it's far from easy!

You guys know I try to share the behind-the-scenes on my IG stories (how stressed I am at times, my hectic schedule, reality vs IG photos etc) because the truth is there's SO MUCH that goes on behind the scenes in this world!

So today I wanted to share a real side of social media and blogging...AND some truths in my perspective about what I do:

LIFE CAN BE A CONSTANT JUGGLE.

As a one-woman show (though I'm growing a little team), maintaining a healthy balance between work, social, and gym life is super tricky. (More to come on this!) Not only is "balance" a constant battle, but the job never ends between managing projects and photoshoots, attending events, creating blog content, responding to all my DMs (yes I try my best at this!), and posting on Instagram. I mean I can literally spend all day just connecting with you guys! So when do I stop?! Well I tell myself to put my phone down each night by 9 pm and I have to remind myself that family and loved ones come first because as an example...last year, I had plans to go on a cruise with my boyfriend's family and then a project popped up at the last minute that I couldn't get out of because of a contract. I ended up having to cancel the family trip and it was SUCH a tough position to be in. This happens more often that I like so I'm working on managing a good balance here!

DEADLINES GET TIGHT.

"Work" in this industry is SO unpredictable. When it's busy, it gets BUSY AF with campaigns rushing through each day. In the last 3 years, I've seen that campaigns can be well-planned in advanced OR super last minute. And by last minute, I mean a 2 day - or even 1 day turn around time. You just NEVER know. My photographer and I work on the weekends together since she has a full time job so when something is due during the week, I usually ask Ian to take my photos or  I'll use a tripod. As you guys know, I love staying organized so when deadlines come in like this and throws off my schedule I can get pretty stressed lol. In the end though, I always manage to pull it off and will give myself pats on the back haha

THERE CAN BE CONFLICTING INTERESTS.

Sometimes, you'll end up in sticky situations and it's best to not take things personally! We're are well connected in the industry and I met a few of my best friends through social media. Like Jera and Chinae via Adidas duh. So this situation happens quite frequently, but my friends and I get casted for the same campaigns. Sometimes one will get it and the other won't... It sucks, but it happens! The great thing is we are all supportive of each other no matter what because there are and will always be enough opportunities to go around! Sometimes if we're lucky we go on the same trips together and it feels like a girls vacay :)

Other ways conflict can arise in this space is when you have competitors reaching out for similar campaigns and it can be hard to say NO when I love both brands. Making that final decision is tough so you can bet I'm calling my mom to get her advice :)

TRAVELING IS NOT ALWAYS WHAT IT SEEMS.

While traveling for various jobs seem glamorous it is also hectic and stressful. The packing (ugh who loves packing anyway lol), content preparation, shot lists, while also keeping up a healthy routine on the go is challenging to say the least. It's also harder to get into work mode when traveling and seeing emails pile up can add to anxiety. I usually go on trips with a shot list for video, IG, and blog content and it'll act as my to-do list while I'm there. So although relaxing by the pool or watching the snow fall on the mountain is so beautiful, in the back of my mind, I'm always thinking about the content I need to fulfill :) but I work hard and play hard so it's a good balance.

SPONSORED CONTENT

When I first got approached by a brand in 2015, I was offered $39. It was for a white wine brand and I made a delicious pasta with it. I was over the moon/shocked/grateful that someone wanted to pay me to do what I do and give me creative reign. Never in a million years did I think I would be able to work with brands I've literally loved my whole life. The universe is funny, and I whole heartedly believe it wants us to succeed when you're doing something in line with your passion and following your heart. I'm so grateful to be able to do what I do and be supported by brands that believe in my mission- getting thru each day with a lil self-care and sweat.

So that's my take on the reality of being an influencer. Was it what you expected?!