This week I’m wearing the Oluwa midi dress, which I think is great for those who worry about styling their African print clothing. For me, it’s the kind of dress that looks great straight from the closet and instantly makes me feel good.

Plus, like all Grass-Fields items, it’s got pockets – ladies I know how we live for pockets!

Last week someone sent me a DM asking how I stay motivated and I thought I would give this topic a quick mention on the blog. Honestly speaking, I’ve never had a lot of trouble with motivation. Growing up in a household of over 20 people, and seeing how my mum, the matriarch, struggled to keep us all fed and clothed was enough motivation for me. But whilst I’ve always had a reason to be motivated, it can sometimes be hard to stay motivated – here are three tips that always help me keep on track.

Listening to motivational speakers

YouTube is a goldmine of motivational stories and speeches and for me they are a great pep talk; nothing gets me more fired up than listening to someone like Brian Tracy while I’m out for a run or on my way home from the office. Whether it’s business people, life coaches, or pastors, sometimes you just need that boost to reignite the fire in your belly.

Looking at the bigger picture

When there’s a lot going on (logistical issues, delayed production, staff illness, etc.) it’s so easy to get stuck on those particular problems. However, Michele and I started Grass-Fields to get our family out of poverty and to make an impact on our community back home, both in Cameroon and further afield in Africa. Sometimes it feels like there’s a new issue everyday so I make sure that when it all feels like it’s a weight too heavy to bear, I take a step back and remember why we got into this. If a few stressful moments are what it takes to uplift my motherland then I’m ready to battle.

My Mum’s messages

I miss home every day, and I miss my mum so, so much. Chatting with her daily, finding out what’s happening back home, what fabric she’s been sourcing (our mum sources lots of our fabric from the markets in Cameroon!) and generally hearing her voice fills me with such warmth. My mum went through so much to provide for Michele and me, our siblings and our extended family, we work hard so she doesn’t have to anymore.

We all live and we learn.

Love Christelle xxx