Youth Confidence Day

With this month being Bullying Prevention Month, we have partnered up with Only Human and notMYkid to help raise awareness. I don't think it’s a coincidence that National Youth Confidence Day falls within the same month. When thinking about what I wanted to share around youth confidence, I reflected on my own experiences as a child as the anti-bullying movement is something that is very near and dear to my heart. 

I’ve always said finding my passion at the age of 11 was a blessing and a curse. I spent the majority of my teenage years spending my time with adults. I had no problem hanging out with my co-workers, customers, older cousins, or the Chicago Bulls players and staff. However, I was pretty awkward hanging out with kids my own age. When most teenage kids were hanging out with their friends, I was working. I didn’t have any friends my age, and I never went to a high school dance. I spent the majority of my early years in high school, eating my lunch in a bathroom stall or in the back of the library sketching new hat designs. I’m not sharing these stories now for any self-pity. I want to share these personal private moments as a sign of hope. 

The concept behind “You can sit with us” is something that’s near and dear to my heart. If you are one of those kids that are told your different, strange, weird, or whatever insulting term is thrown your way, I want you to know that YOU ARE NOT ALONE! There is hope and there is a light at the end of what can sometimes be a dark tunnel. Think about the time you might be spending alone in a positive light. You are unique (you are cool too), and you have more time at a younger age to find your life purpose (and trust me you do!!). You will have a leg up on most of the kids around you. If you are the one bullying someone else, I encourage you to ask yourself why. Look internally and find out what is causing you the unhappiness you’re projecting on others. 

As someone who has been there, I’m here to say it gets better. My experiences lead me to where I am today and I wouldn’t change a thing. I was able to live out my dream of starting my own company, inspired by those uncomfortable situations I faced. 

Sportiqe garments are created for you to wear to get you through some of your most uncomfortable moments in life. They’re built to make you feel your most comfortable state:

When you’re at your most comfortable state, you are able to reach your maximum potential. We make these garments for YOU. 

Visit onlyhumanco.com for similar stories from others and notMYkid.org for more resources on spreading awareness and seeking help.