Recently, I’ve noticed a very peculiar trend in some of my most accomplished and successful friends. Perhaps it stems from an increased attention to being humble (which isn’t a bad thing) or maybe it’s a result of internet-fame bashing. Either way, it seems as though my network of Youtubers, start-up gurus, and working bloggers have taken a route of being overly humble to the point of almost seeming ashamed of their success (while I feel like they should shine bright, like Rihanna advises).
Since I try and spend time admiring and learning from those around me, looking up to their success, it seemed bizarre to me that they were hiding their accomplishments. There’s nothing more amazing than humble success but it almost feels as though they’re not proud of what they’ve achieved. It makes me not only confused, but sad because they shine bright in my eyes.
I think it’s because there’s this stigma about young success, and to be more specific, young online success. I’ve even had some of my corporate, more conventional, mentors say to me: “these kids don’t know the first thing about business or growing a company, they’re 21, they don’t know anything about real success”
It’s clear they just don’t understand.
I know everyone always says, fame comes with criticism, but when you achieve success in some sort of online capacity, the amount of online bashing that goes on is incredible. We call these online bullies keyboard jockeys because they literally just hide behind their screens and bad mouth comment all day. I guess they get some sort of high of it. I’ve actually spoken to several of these people and they explained to me that “it’s fun”. LIKE WHAT?!
So this post and this outfit is inspired and dedicated to all my amazing friends out there, pushing the limit, achieving awesomeness, and learning to shine bright no matter who’s trying to dull their diamond (go ahead, laugh at me, I’m a cheese ball 
)
I wanted to keep this outfit casual, muted, but still bright. I’m a sucker for metallics (and an even bigger sucker for metallic knitwear). This keeper is one I picked up from Line Knitwear (woot woot Canada!) and the best part is that it’s not itchy like a lot of sparkly/metallic sweaters out there. Comfy sweaters are #musts.
The origami shorts are a mainstream crowd fav from, you got it, Zara. I love that it feels and looks like shorts but it’s not. And the number one ringer for these, they have pockets (i.e. heaven to ears when it comes to any sort of bottoms haha)
The earrings are Swarovski and are one of my favourite pairs. They sparkle and catch the light like no other and its uncomplicated design gives just the perfect humble sparkle 
These mules are also from Zara and caught my eye (not just because they were on sale haha) because of their geometric shape and very subtle asymmetry in the front – kind of a metaphor about our shifting online world. These shoes just scream unconventional to me!
So cheers to all the amazing young professional breaking the mould, being unconventional, and allowing themselves to unapologetically shine bright. Whether you are one or are a budding one, I hope that the increasing online negativity doesn’t phase you, because what you do is amazing. If people want to hate on it because it makes them feel better, remember that it has nothing to do with you! Just keep doing your thing.
Shine bright, never regret doing so, and never let the people who don’t matter, matter.
How do you deal with online bullies? How do you shine bright through the noise? I’d love to hear your perspectives!
