Today we’d like to introduce you to Imani Collins.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Imani. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Wow! Where do I even begin? Well, I can honestly say that my story started when I finally realized that I wanted change. I realized that in order to have different, I had to do different. I’ve always known that there was more in store for me and that I was different than the people around me. I knew that if I wanted change, I had to be the change. In 2016, I started studying mental health, law of attraction, self-love and more. Every other week I was in Barnes and Noble picking up a self-improvement book or some days I’d even just watch YouTube videos on character building. It’s honestly something I fell in love with.
I feel like in life the only thing we really have control over is ourselves. Our actions, how we think and react to certain situations. I wanted to master that so I had control over my own life (and not some social media app or the opinions of other people). That is what I been on a mission for, For change in how I love myself and how I can teach it to other people in an entertaining way. In today’s society, it just isn’t common. Every single day, I live my life in hopes of inspiring the next person, which is part of the reason why I started my YouTube channel (www.YouTube.com/theimanicollins). It’s where I talk a lot about loving yourself, growing confidence and being the best version on you, of course alongside of other fun topics haha.
I believe if you aren’t providing a service to the world (especially) on your journey to success than you’re just doing an injustice to yourself because, in order to get something from the world, you have to give something. I am far from perfect, my imperfections make me who I am every single day and I, sure enough, do not have it all figure out but regardless of those things I choose to spread inspiration, even in my toughest moments, to all people around me. Everything is LOVE and everyone deserves it.
My platform, my brand, who “theimanicollins” is, is what that stands on. One day I will reach millions and millions of people in the world. I will give back. I will continue to create things that will forever live beyond me. WHY? you ask? Because that’s the most important thing. Not how many likes we get on our pictures, not the fancy clothes and shoes we wear. It’s our character, it’s how God sees us and how many lives we touch every single day that will make the difference in this world.
Christmas day 2018, I decided I was moving to Texas in January of 2019 to start a new journey… (going back to my quote I mentioned earlier…” to have different, I had to do different”). I knew that I wanted a new experience in a new surrounding starting off my 2019, so that’s what I went after. It was really the beginning of a new journey. My sister and her family lived here in Texas so of course, it was a scary thought for me but knowing my sister would be here with me made me feel a little bit better. I was literally going off of faith because remind you, I had only planned for this big move a month in advance. I didn’t have any money saved, no job lined up or anything.
Just me, myself and the thought of this life-changing risk. January 8th, 2019 came and it was the day, the scariest day of my life. At 20 years old, I’d really moved away from my family for the first time ever. Let alone, to a whole new state! I’d barely ever even traveled like that so you can bet that this was major for me but I decided to just jump! Besides, nothing great comes from your comfort zone. All that to say, that about two months ago, my sister and her family actually moved back home. I mean I started experiencing anxiety when I first moved here but now you can imagine the feeling of anxiety I’ve had since I’ve been on my own. It’s been a very “growth building” experience ever since but a journey that I am ever so grateful for.
Has it been a smooth road?
I want to be completely honest with you, it is the toughest journey I’ve ever experienced. It is not easy at all and I am still learning things myself. There’s things that I struggle with over and over again and just seem unable to overcome. But that is just apart of my story. One day, I’ll be able to instruct someone on how to overcome their toughest battles because of how hard it was for me to overcome one of mine.
Some advice I would like to give all my beautiful Queens out there is that You’re just one decision away from having a completely different life! Take risks and believe you can do it. You’re only as good as you think you are, so wake up every single day knowing that you are GREATNESS. It’s literally what I tell myself every day… that “I am greatness and greatness is within me”.
Know your boundaries and comfort zones and cross them! Your future self will Thank you later.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I have a YouTube channel called theImaniCollins, my channel topics vary from fun challenges to “moving out of state” advice to confidence-building and girl chat! I love connecting with other women (and men) and having those longgg empowering, invigorating talks that leave me inspired and motivated to take on the world. I am also known for my inspirational Instagram story positivity quotes. Every day I drown my viewers in inspiration that forces them to love and believe in themselves.
The thing about me that makes me different, is how I present my truth. Although I am this person that encourages people and wants to spread positivity. I make it very clear to everyone that I am just like anyone else when it comes to making mistakes and going through my emotions. Ask anyone, I am probably the most sensitive person you’ve ever met!
What advice would you give to someone at the start of her career?
To keep going! Keep going even in the midst of your storms. Keep going, even when things don’t look like it’s getting better for you. Keep going, even when you see other people making progress and you don’t feel like you are. Never compare yourself. Your time is coming, Queen! Consistency is key and you have to go after what you want. Your opportunities are endless. You got this!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC83hAboH0BMdi9kh4ZOp7AA
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @theimanicollins
- Twitter: @theimanicollins
Image Credit:
Darius Quick
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