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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Texas chapter.

My voice has been hidden for so long. I have not had the courage to speak up for myself or respect my own feelings. I’ve been in denial about my situations and neglecting them by putting more on my plate. I have been trying to carry the world on my shoulders but only sinking deeper. I forget about myself when making sure everyone else is okay. What about me? Who checks on me when I’m not okay? How do I tell someone I’m not okay when I can’t face my own reality? That’s my story but that is not where it ends.

Let’s open to a new chapter in my story: Be-coming a Better Version of Me. The me that is putting God first and allowing Him to guide my steps. The me that sets boundaries and puts me as a priority.  The me that is healing from past trauma and heartache. The me that is loving herself and growing in confidence. I am enjoying my happiness and my inner peace. I am opening the doors and stepping into my spotlight. I am no longer hiding behind a mask to please others, nor will I put myself second. I’m becoming a young woman that is bold, vibrant, and inspiring others.

Tips that are helping me in my Be-coming Story:

Be selfish with yourself.

Be unavailable.

Be self-motivated.

Be goal-getting.

Be independent.

Be low-key.

Also, take time to just be and slow down.

Hi! I'm Dajaiya Pegue, a senior at the University of Texas at Austin, pursuing a pre-law psychology major with minors in sociology and Black studies. I'm passionate about writing on topics that resonate with the Black community and aim to create spaces that uplift Black writers and Black women.