Today I’m breaking all the rumors, answering questions, addressing concerns, and overall just thanking you all for the love that you’ve given me during this quiet time I’ve taken on social media. Your comments and messages of support have meant the world to me as I’ve focused on self-care and have given me encouragement on my toughest days. As a way of saying thank you, here’s a little life and business update answering four of the questions I’ve received the most lately.

Questions from my readers:

1. Why did you take a break from blogging?

I’ve given bits and pieces of this on social media and my blog. Overall, it was time I made self-care and health a priority. I always promise to be real and straightforward with you all, and I’m choosing to embrace vulnerability by telling you this. Over the course of a year, I’ve been hospitalized three times for a variety of health reasons. Stress is likely the catalyst for this, and now they’re 99.9% sure I have endometriosis among other things (side note: if you know anything about this please reach out to me – the pain is unbearable at times).

Social media has an amazing way of bringing so many blessings and wonderful opportunities into our lives, but there is a side to it that not many people address — the pressure, the comparison game, the stress and anxiety, the keep going mentality, the constant desire to be perfect, and always feeling a need to be plugged-in.

I recently read an article that says that millennials struggle with perfectionism more. I’m not surprised.

“According to a new study released in the journal Psychological Bulletin, millennials are more likely than previous generations to put pressure on ourselves — and others — to be perfect, possibly to the detriment of our mental health.”

My personality type is a classic perfectionist. I have the drive to never stop even when it’s tough, but I was ignoring the signs when my body was saying “slow down”. And guess what? I ignored them until the inevitable happened. This past year led to a snowball effect of health concerns that needed to be addressed, so I took time off to recover. Our bodies are remarkable, and if we listen to them they tell you exactly what you need. When to take time for yourself, what feelings you need to address or accept, what goals to set, what kind of exercise you need, or even what foods to eat.

The more I started to listen to my body the more I realized that social media was something that I needed to cut out until I was ready. I needed to forget about being perfect.

2. How are you doing?

Of all the messages I received from women who asked this simple question, I want to say THANK YOU. Thank you for thinking of me. Thank you for caring enough to reach out. The encouragement you gave me still replays in my mind and gives me hope to persevere through the struggles.

I’m feeling rejuvenated, inspired and motivated.

As I step back into this role of being active in my community, I do so with passion and heart to be 100% myself. That means if I need a day of self-care to not post to Instagram, I am OK with that. Thank you for understanding that self-care should always be our number one priority.

3. What are you working on right now?

1. Website Refresh

Did you notice? I hope so! I’ve done a major website redesign. Fashion, travel, self-care topics, and empowerment for other creative women go-getters will be the focus of my blog. As I refocus my goals for Style Miss Molly, I’m working more on creating this space to be an uplifting community where we can encourage each other. I’m following my passion for helping women achieve their goals, and I couldn’t be more excited about the direction I’m heading. Thank you for being a part of it!

2. Writing a Book

One of the most exciting side projects I’ve been working on for a while which I told you about on Instagram is that I’m writing a book! I’m nervous and excited about finally accomplishing this dream I’ve had forever. My book is about empowering other women to let go of their perfections, face their fears and reclaim their power to pursue their dreams fearlessly. It’s basically my #MollysWords encouraging words hashtag which you follow on Instagram or read on my website wrapped up into one inspiring book.

3. Speaking Opportunities

I want to bring #MollysWords of encouragement to life and share more of my heart on video or a podcast. I’d love to hear your thoughts or interest on this so please write in the comments what you’d love to see and hear on video or take this quick survey. I’ve had more speaking opportunities lately in Seattle, and I am thrilled to step outside of my comfort zone and connect with others in a whole different way.

3. Mentorship Program

Being able to help women is a huge part of my heart, which is why I’m excited to expand on that passion through a mentorship program I am creating. If you want first access to when that launches or want to share your ideas with me about what you’d like that program to look like feel free to share it all in this survey.

4. What are your goals for your blog?

I believe that when God gives you an incredible platform to bring hope into this world where so many people need it, you use it. The main goal of my blog is empowering women by connecting with my readers (that’s you), and together share the raw and vulnerable experiences we each face.

I created #MollysWords to inspire others one word at a time. I hope my story helps you and I hope it inspires you to share yours too.

Take a look at the updated About Me page on my blog which now reflects my passion for reaching the hearts of women who may struggle in the same way. I’ll be adding a Q&A, so if you have any questions for me, send them my way!

As I turn 28, I remind myself this is the year to forget about being perfect. As something I’ve struggled with my whole life, I know that I am constantly learning and growing. You are not alone in this.

How to avoid getting caught in the perfectionist trap:

1. Limit your time on social media: Remember unplugging regularly is a necessity for your health.
2. Listen to your body: Take a step back when needed.
3. Practice self-care: Focus on your physical and mental wellbeing.
4. Avoid comparing yourself to others: Don’t let comparison make you lose sight of your own path.
5. Be kind to yourself: Remember your worth!

This is the year to forget about being perfect. I hope you join me in letting go of perfectionism and embracing the beauty in your imperfections!

Keep smiling!

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