Digital Content Creator: Jannel
1. First thing, who are you, what do you do, and how can people connect with you?
My name is Jannel Varona. I am a digital content creator. The best way to connect with me is through my social media platforms. You can find me @streetstyleteller on Instagram and @janneltherese on Twitter.
2. You're not the type to shy away from speaking up about topics you're passionate about. Tell us what are your top 3 focuses right now and why?
My top three focus right now is letting people know it's okay to take care of themselves and do what they think is best for them, and most importantly, to really encourage everyone to vote, and for Biden specifically.
3. Social media gives false expectations with plenty of room for accusations these days. It's easy for anyone to criticize us, so how do you personally protect your energy from all of that?
I think in the world of social media, you really need to know yourself so you cannot be phased by anyone coming at you with negativity. Do not let anyone dictate and define who you are. I protect myself by choosing what deserves my energy. I try not to be so impulsive and really think about what I am putting out there.
4. Since quitting your job last year, what are 3 things you've learned as an entrepreneur?
The three things I learned after quitting my 6AM-3PM job as a manager of a coffee shop in NYC is that --
1. I CAN DO THIS.
2. Nothing ever worth having will ever come easy.
3. There's a difference between knowing your worth and taking actions every day that says that you do know.
5. What is one thing you would advise someone who is wishing to pursue a similar path?
Just do it! I know the anxiety and fear of the unknown that comes with pursuing something you never had before but I swear, it's fulfilling and rewarding over here. It's not easy and it's important to know rejections and failures are part of the success and it's even better knowing you're working for yourself, on yourself, with yourself.
6. What characteristics define Jannel?
If I like you, you'll know. If I love you, you'll know. If I don't like you, you'll know. HAHAHA.
One thing about me is that I love to laugh! I really do think I am funny as heck. lol. (only my closest friends and family know this) and if you can make me laugh too, oh, then we can vibe!
7. One thing you are currently UNlearning and why is this so important to you?
One thing that I am continuously unlearning is that no one else is me. I feel like much of my life growing up is expecting myself in other people and that just leads to a lot of heartbreak, disappointments, and frustrations. This is important to me because it really makes all of the difference when it comes to my reactions to what people say or do. I only have control over how I move.
8. Do you believe a work-life balance is achievable? If so, how do you define this balance? If not, why not?
To be honest, this is something I always struggle with. I feel like we are told that being busy and working all the time is most important when really taking care of ourselves in order to take care of other things is actually the most important. Not every day is perfectly balanced. The way I try to find that balance is by making sure I'm taking care of first before I tackle any emails in the morning. I drink water, make myself breakfast, do some deep breaths then I dive in.
9. Let's talk boundaries -- what are your 3 non-negotiable boundaries?
1. My alone time is sacred.
2. I will respond when I can.
3. Privacy is key.
What you see and what you know about me is what I allow.
10. What is one affirmation you tell yourself all the time and why this specific one?
"No one is you and that is your power." It really puts a lot of doubt to rest and gives me the power to do the things I want and need to do for the day.
