Candid’s Start.

I can remember the moment so clearly. I was getting ready to visit friends shortly after my world started opening back up after the initial COVID-19 lockdown. I had bought a new tank top that I absolutely loved! I made this purchase during a time when I was going nowhere, just to ensure I had something nice for when I could finally go out.

As I looked in the mirror, I began questioning myself and engaging in negative self-talk. I even debated changing into a shirt that fully covered my arms.

Time and again, I cycled through clothes until I found something I perceived to be “flattering enough.” But that day, I paused. I looked back in the mirror and asked myself if I really needed to care about my appearance. Did I need to believe the negative thoughts? Did I need to worry about others’ opinions? Why should I put away a shirt I love? Why should I not prioritize what I wanted?

All my previous efforts toward self-growth had led to this moment, but it was this instant realization that allowed me to see that change was possible. This was something that had never happened before—a moment I had been waiting for for so long. I had never felt sure of my progress, but this moment showed me just how far I had actually come. I had never felt confident in being myself, but this moment demonstrated that it was possible. It was possible, and it could continue to get better.

I was 28 years old when this change happened. I thought I would be faking it forever. I was already a therapist, had attended therapy several times, read self-help books, and tried various wellness approaches and coping skills. Yet, I still didn’t feel comfortable being my authentic self. It started to feel like being my most genuine and confident self was not in the cards for me.

During the lockdown, I had the privilege of slowing down. I worked from home, and my job wasn’t as busy at that time. Initially, I didn’t mind being home, but I quickly learned that being stuck at home also meant being stuck with myself. With minimal distractions, I found I had no plans to take me away from my negative self-talk. I realized there was less external validation and very little internal validation happening either.

I decided to use this time to better myself. In the back of my mind, I doubted I would actually change, but I wanted authenticity—whatever I thought that meant at the time. I genuinely slowed down and focused on myself and my health more than I ever had before. I joined a supportive coaching group dedicated to embracing authenticity and self-love in its truest form. I learned new approaches to mindset and lessons that reinforced the work I had previously done. It became easier to focus on consistency with healthy habits as well.

My physical and mental health improved, yet I still questioned my ability to be authentic. It wasn’t until that moment in the mirror that I realized my efforts had paid off. My dedication, my consistency, and my openness to support all worked—every piece coming together, over time.

I realized that if it could work for me, it could also work for others. I began to want to help other girls and women experience moments like mine. I felt my passion growing and was motivated to let others know that, eventually, they could be themselves—genuinely, comfortably, and confidently.