While I was sitting in one of the white wooden chairs in the audience at Elevate Blog Conference a week ago, I listened attentively to all of the beautiful speakers. They all had a different, personal story to tell, but like the quote that Ashley told us, “That which is most personal is most universal.”, I realized that there was an underlying similarity within all of their unique stories. The similarity was that we all have a story to share. We all want our voice to be heard. Ashley urged us to think about why we want to share our story. Why do we blog about our lives when we could keep it all private? Why do we put ourselves out there in a world that can be cruel and hateful at times? These questions have been rolling around in my brain for a week now. I have thought about the answers countless times, but have been procrastinating when it has come to writing about them. Why? I guess I’ve been scared to get too real. I’ve been scared to be vulnerable and open up too much. But, in that fear I have discovered my reason why.
As far back as I can remember I have been shy, reserved, and fearful of other people. I have had problems making friends, getting close to others and interacting socially. The social anxiety that I have felt at times has been almost debilitating. Big crowds make me cringe. The fear of rejection has dug its talons in deep within me, and it’s been a long, intense battle to break free. This blog is a place to help me break free. After twenty-eight years of living with anxiety and fear, I am ready to break free. I am ready to love myself for who I am and not let the fear of what other people may think take control of me. It has been a work in progress over the years to become free of this heavy weight. Blogging gives me an outlet to be me, let go of my fears, and share my story with others.
I blog because I want to
be real,
be inspiring,
be raw,
and be ME.
I want to share my story with whoever wants to listen. I want to provide an open place where myself and others can feel safe to just be. I want to inspire you to love yourself, be kind to yourself and others, be happy, and be you. This is why I blog. Thank you, Ashley for asking that question and making me think about the reason behind my blog.
eatnapplay 
Beautifully said Natalee! I think so many other people out there can relate to you and I can personally attest that you have inspired me to be more mindful if what I eat (sweets are going to be a hard habit for me to break). I’m so happy for you and what you’ve done with your blog and I’m excited for what’s to come! Keep up the realness! xoxo
Thank you so much. This truly means a lot to me. Xoxo
You Rock – love you bunches
Love this! Before I started my blog I thought it was just as simple as putting pen to paper. Im slowly learning it’s so much more than that. Thanks for sharing!
Xo
Jerika
Thank you, Jerika! That’s so true. I thought I started it for “fun”, but have realized it is much more meaningful and important. 🙂
I can’t wait to read your story! I am super shy… I cried in front of my class in high school because I was terrified to do my speech… Yep, at the time crying seemed like a better option. duh. At the first Elevate I couldn’t introduce myself… BUT this year, I was much more comfortable… actually I’d rather speak in front of all of you than go up to someone and introduce myself! LOL The girls in the blogging community are amazing! I’m so glad you are a part of it!
I have a very similar high school story. Lol Thank you for welcoming me with open arms. I am so glad to be part of this great community and so happy we met! 🙂