Sometimes, it’s easy to look at where you are and feel like you haven’t made it to where you want to be. I’ve had those moments, measuring my progress against my own expectations and wondering if I’m where I should be. But right now, I can honestly say, I’m proud of me.

Every now and then, I stand in front of the mirror and say, “I am proud of you, LaTronda Latrice. You are doing GREAT.” And it’s true. While there’s still so much, I want to accomplish, I’ve learned to appreciate both the journey and the present moment. What I’ve achieved so far is worth celebrating, and I’m grateful for the growth along the way.

I have an amazing husband, raised well-adjusted sons, earned multiple degrees, and built a successful career. In my 46 years, I have accomplished so much, yet there are moments when I wonder if I could have done more.

Still, I refuse to fall into the trap of comparison, whether to those younger or older than me, because that only leads to frustration. In these moments of doubt, I remind myself to extend grace to myself, to appreciate my journey, and to recognize that my path is uniquely mine.

We must learn to be kind, gracious, and forgiving with ourselves, especially in a world that often demands perfection. Positive self-talk isn’t just a confidence booster, it’s essential for personal growth. It sustains us in moments when external validation is absent, reminding us of our worth and resilience.

When no one else affirms you, affirm yourself. Speak to yourself with compassion, because the words you tell yourself shape your reality. A strong, positive inner dialogue influences your mindset, emotional well-being, and overall performance, creating the foundation for continued growth and success.

Positive self-talk helps to: ……

1. Boosts Confidence and Self-Esteem

Positive self-talk helps reinforce your strengths and capabilities. By reminding yourself of your worth and potential, you boost your confidence and create a more resilient self-image.

2. Improves Mental Health

Negative self-talk can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression. In contrast, positive self-talk promotes mental well-being by encouraging optimism and reducing self-criticism, which can lead to healthier emotional states.

3. Reduces Stress

Positive self-talk can help you manage stress more effectively. By focusing on solutions rather than problems, you lower the impact of stressors and maintain a calmer, more rational approach to demanding situations.

4. Fosters Resilience

During setbacks, positive self-talk encourages perseverance by reminding you of past successes and your ability to overcome obstacles. This mindset fosters resilience, enabling you to bounce back more quickly.

By practicing positive self-talk, you cultivate a healthier mindset, build emotional resilience, and enhance overall well-being.

My heart’s desire is to make a meaningful impact on the world using the gifts God has given me, to create wealth, leave a legacy for my future grandsugas (none yet, but I’m claiming them!), and build something that endures for generations. Though I sometimes feel like I’m in a holding pattern, waiting to take off on the runway of success, one thing remains certain: nothing is impossible for my God.

I still believe in myself, my vision, and my ability to bring these dreams to life, with God’s guidance and the unwavering support of my village. From sitting with distant celebrity mentors to seeing my name on the New York Times Best Sellers List, my vision is so clear I can almost touch it. It hasn’t come to pass yet, but I know it’s on the way, and I am patient until God say it’s time.

LaTronda Latrice