“Growth requires movement. And often, the only way forward is through an exit door.”

– Alicia Keys

This journey I am on: is beautiful. It forces me to maintain self-awareness and constantly challenges my ego. When I think I have everything together something always happens to remind me that there is so much more to learn. I am content with my flaws because the goal is to “get it right, not be right.” Shout out to Brené Brown. Today is my half birthday and I have grown and become more myself in the last six months.

My last blog was a loving tribute to my girlfriend and, sadly, things have changed since then. We broke up shortly after we celebrated our one-year anniversary. Out of respect, I will keep the details between us but it will be another catalyst for growth along with all of my reading. I recently finished More Myself: A Journey by Alicia Keys and heavily identified with her story.

While I have always appreciated the musical talent of Alicia Keys, I would not have considered myself a fan. I didn’t follow her career, buy all of her albums, or know anything about her life story, but I’m not a fan of many. Their artistry may get my attention but their character is the determining factor.

I became a fan of Alicia after reading her memoir “More Myself: A Journey”. It was during quarantine when I first discovered the book. 2020 was all about self-discovery. I was listening to Unlocking Us with Brené Brown at my leisure, and then going out to find the books recommended on her podcast. I am so grateful for the Free Library of Philadelphia because I was usually able to find what I was looking for between their two apps.

When Brené featured a conversation with Alicia I instinctively knew I needed to read her book. The wait time at the library was a few months so I powered through a number of books in between. More Myself did not disappoint and touched a part of me that none of the others had: my spirit.

I read many valuable and well-written books but they were more intellectual. Many of them dealt with emotional intelligence but Alicia is closer in age and complexion so there was a resonance that the other books couldn’t match. Although Permission to Feel had a profound impact, I couldn’t quite put myself into Marc Brackett’s shoes.

Thinking about my progress on my journey keeps me humble. It’s not by my effort because [in my opinion] it took too long. Now that I am ready, the universe is bringing books, networks, people, opportunities, and ideas into my life. All things are working for my good.

I lost sight of where I wanted to be and More Myself was a reawakening of sorts. I highlighted a bunch of quotes and I will be sharing my reflections on my favorites monthly on the 18th. Join me as I begin a new series: Determined Me.