watch this if you feel like you have no value to offer.

[@VanessaLau]

FREE Story Inventory Notion Template AND ChatGPT Prompts here (you'll need to subscribe to unlock the whole post with all the freebies!): thecreatorjournal.co/p/story-inventory

[@privatesoulll]

who is this mentor. And how can i find a mentor like yours? I loved the message !

[@dianaharrell8416]

I’m a young single mom. My husband joined the Airforce and the second he got out of bootcamp a few months ago, he gave me the “I can’t do this anymore” and left my 2yr old son and I to fend for ourselves on the other side of the US. He just abandoned us for his own freedom and he wanted to “enjoy his life”. I was a stay at home mom. So I had no money and had to beg people and him for it. No job, no education. Your videos inspire me and give me hope in how to create something and how to enjoy it and remain genuine. You’re teaching me how I can create an income but still enjoy my life with my son. You give ME and my son so much of value. Not just me. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. I’m not there yet. But one day I will be. And I thank you for all your videos for inspiring me and teaching me to go forward in all of this. Your content is the most genuine out here and it is helping me and my little family of 2.

[@annaaa1518]

You can do this, Diana. Never ever lose hope. Sending you and your son many hugs

[@3polygons]

Stay strong. All that has a lot of merit. We are capable of way more than we initially think, this is a proven fact. :)

[@VanessaLau]

Alright, this made me so emotional. Thank you for taking the time to share your story here. It gives me purpose to be able to share my story and, as a result, help someone like you. You are SO strong, and I'm rooting for you and your son! As the others have mentioned here, never lose hope. You're a hero story in the making, and you'll look back on these moments and be so glad they happened because YOU overcame them and can now help millions of women out there who have gone through the same struggles you did.

[@chrishercules3526]

Keep pushing forward Diana! It won't be easy but it will be worth it. You Got This! Make it Happen!

[@woofandwonder]

@@dianaharrell8416 you CAN do this, we are all cheering for you and I’ve subbed to you to give you an extra boost 🥰

[@FitnessFAQs]

Vanessa your honest vulnerability takes courage. We appreciate you discussing a complex topic. Don't forget the value you bring to the people who aren't commenting too!

[@VanessaLau]

Thank you so much! It means a lot coming from you. It IS a complex topic and I've been struggling with it for months. I'm excited to post more videos of how I'm working to overcome it. I don't think enough people talk about how lost someone might feel when they've achieved something that's so tied to their identity. Anyways, appreciate you! And thank you for mentioning about the value brought to people who may not comment. Means a lot!

[@MissVindicat]

Being an entrepreneur and sharing your life online is hard. I decided it’s not for me. I quit social media. Got a regular job again. I pretty much became a private person. Life feels way better now.

[@nicolenicole2085]

You can still be an entrepreneur without sharing your life ❤

[@MissVindicat]

@@nicolenicole2085 Yes! Although that can actually feel quite impossible, with all the advice about branding yourself online. However, for me, I am way happier now not having a business anymore. :)

[@patcharm]

I admire your courage to give it a try on being an entrepreneur online. I am trying to find my courage to start.

[@VanessaLau]

Congratulations!! I have a couple friends who also quit social media and entrepreneurship after building successful businesses. It's demanding to be online and sometimes it's harder to enjoy real life when you're spending so much of your time online and making content ABOUT your life. I totally understand and respect this perspective. Congratulations! It takes a lot of courage. You should be proud of yourself :)

[@allstarbury]

​@@VanessaLaui hate phone calls how about u ?

[@CrochetTutorialsGirl]

I literally had this epiphany yesterday when I was looking at other successful black women in business to try and motivate myself to say that I can too but I just had to snap myself out of it because I felt like I could Never be them. And it’s true that I can never be them, I can only be me and create my life and success how I want it. I totally relate.

[@JarmainPatrick]

Around 70% of the world’s population consists of black and brown people, you can be anything you want sister. There are millions of dream clients and fans around the world waiting for you - you just need create the right content for them to find you 🤝

[@VanessaLau]

100% - you can never be like them, because they are not you :) i'm glad you watched this video to further affirm this belief and to not give up on what you want to do!

[@orincywhytedesigns]

❤❤

[@jasminegayle]

Vanessa, it was YOU who helped me feel comfortable about promoting my coaching business on Instagram! And pursuing it and sharing myself. Even now, YOU STILL TEACH ME that there's something powerful even in our lows. Every time you said, "I feel like I have no value." I just thought, I couldn't disagree more and how often do I think about that myself?" I love that I'm witnessing THIS part of your journey. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

[@VanessaLau]

1000000%!!!!! This is exactly why I wanted to show this side of my life that no one really gets access to. It's to exactly show that.... hey, if i think this way about myself - how many times have you thought that way!? and how silly is it!? We need to get out of our own way and stop making our lives harder than it needs to be. Our self perception is EVERYTHING.

[@rachelhow]

as a creator, this one hit me. can't remember the times I've also cried or have insomnia because I don't think I have anything to offer, or if I even know anything at all. so thanks for being vulnerable and showing the real struggles of being a creator, Vanessa. I've learned that nobody is truly alone and withdrawing from social media is totally OKAY. We're playing the long game, and in the process, we need to learn how to be kind to ourselves.

[@dearkappy]

Hi rachel, It's so nice stumbling across your comment. I never perused UX design but your videos gave me a lot of value and motivation to self teach and learn a new skill. Thank you!

[@rachelhow]

@@dearkappy wow thank you, this means a lot 🥹 I'm so glad to hear this! It's going to make my day :)

[@mrmoeezali]

I think what you need is a parent tapping on your back saying hey you got this I'm here with you

[@VanessaLau]

yesss, there's so much work and healing to be done behind the scenes. I'll create a future video about this, but the childhood and cultural work has been huge for me. Thanks for your comment Moe!

[@stephaniemccusker800]

You don’t need societies concept of value to be a friend, you’re inherently valuable as a human. Those who have you adore YOU, not your business.

[@KatieThomasCreative]

This comment should be pinned, such good advice!

[@VanessaLau]

Yes!! I totally see that now with the work I've been doing behind the scenes. Thanks for this reminder Stephanie. Appreciate you.

[@JessicaLaShawn]

We love you your story and your journey. Every day you show up is another story of how you didn’t give up you didn’t doubt your purpose and you didn’t take for granted your gifts. Thank you for sharing this vulnerable side of existing within your purpose!

[@VanessaLau]

Thank you Jessica for following along my journey and for tuning into this video. And yes, I hope by me showing up this way also gives hope to anyone else who's not sure how to show up online when they are in a period of questioning!

[@jesterfeathers]

08:16 I can’t tell you how much I needed to hear this. As someone with lots of interests and a rather… odd yt channel, it’s important to remember that I have to blaze my own trail (just like everyone else has to do) instead of waiting around for permission or a “sign” that it’s safe to post what I want 💜

[@frankieslight]

as someone who went through a similar thing you might be going through a dark night of the soul. Don't fight it just lean into it and let the universe show you the next best thing

[@shomgerry]

"Everything you think is wrong with you, is probably what everybody likes about you. This is beautiful. Heart's with you Vanessa, you're amazing for sharing a part of you that would usually be difficult for someone else.

[@IvanPienaar]

I find the fact someone that has done as much as you have, is as beautiful as you are, and from what I've seen on your videos is as kind and well spoken as you, still battles with insecurities/doubts is very encouraging. Best of luck to you and your happiness! 😁👍

[@taylorcezanne]

Hi Vanessa! I'm a content creator living here in Austin, TX and I just have to say, you would be SO WELCOMED here! With open arms! You will 100% find your crowd and enjoy the friends you make here. Texas is a wonderful place filled with so many cool people. I would love to run into you one day!!

[@Zepeda3D]

I love the fact that you are a wise soul that is healing and is sharing with us the miracle of your teaching us from your experiences and helping us out in invaluable ways. God bless your heart and may your path be filled with joy and light. Sincerely, Jorge

[@viviantejada]

Girl you’ve done so much for us. Focus on being vs doing. It’s your time to be.

[@YouToBeYou]

I think you're hitting a huge niche. A lot of influencer struggle with overachieving, overwhelm & eventually burnout. I want to learn how to keep my private life & social media life in balance and this video reassures me a lot, thanks for that 😘

[@aohamer]

"Unconscious competence"...wow. We are "That Girl" without even realizing we are "That Girl"! 👑 This was really insightful, so many gems. Thank you so much for sharing, Vanessa. This was definitely valuable for me 💕

[@VanessaLau]

LEGIT! Ugh. You'll totally see in my next newsletter how I had no idea I was THAT girl. I hope you're subscribed (www.thecreatorjournal.co) !! If not, thank you again for leaving such a kind comment. Appreciate it so much!

[@aohamer]

@@VanessaLau Yaaasss, just signed up 💕 Looking forward to it!

[@otherworldlyfiction]

For what it's worth, I'm enjoying the new videos. I love hearing other people talk about their experiences, thoughts, doubts, etc. I'd love to see more content like this, but of course you must do what feels right to you. It's not my opinion but yours that counts! Thanks for another great video. It can be encouraging as a small creator to see that big or "popular" creators still struggle with self doubt too.

[@christineykim]

I’m in that similar isolation period removing voices that have influenced me more than they should have. When the voices are gone, it’s amazing how much easier it is to be yourself. Your value does not come from what you “produce,” although society will make you feel that way. As a mom with a teenage daughter, I’ve gained a much broader perspective on what is really important in life. I wish you all the best on your move to Austin! I’m not too far in Dallas. May your future days be filled with lots of joy, love, peace and fulfillment. Enjoy the moments because life really goes by quickly.

[@woofandwonder]

Vanessa I’ve been with you for years and years, your honesty and vulnerability speaks to thousands of us, you’re NOT alone. I think you need a small but solid female friend group that allows you to feel free to be YOU, not “Vanessa the business owner”. You WILL find them (honestly, I wish I could be in that group!), in the meantime, do what brings you joy. 😊

[@ViannelyLopez]

I did the ChatGPT exercise and it’s so powerful thank you for sharing this!!! It brought so much value, realizations and inspiration to me ❤.

[@melissabheekha7262]

Thank you Vanessa for your vulnerability and courage. I discovered your KZbin channel recently and it's giving me interesting things to reflect upon. I always felt like I never had any value to offer especially when it comes to talents or talking about myself during job interviews and in social situations, but you made me realised that seeing value in ourselves is a process that takes some time. Along with developing acceptance and self-love.❤

[@Tamietwist]

Remember we are people not robots. Just pumping out work is not who we are. ❤ We are more, we are love, we have quirks and like different things. We change and we dont change. Do not let earning money and all that corporate and political talk about value break you.

[@aaronnedrick8261]

This video could not have come into my life at a more perfect time. I want to say thank you Vanessa for opening up about this journey, its a reminder for anyone that no matter what titles, accolades or perceptions others may have we are all still very much human and it is a choice to make this life we have the best we can not only for ourselves but for others. Im a professional artist, have been for nearly half my life, it has provided for me, got me through the worst lows of my life and recently the last few months have been the most challenging for me physically, spiritually, mentally and financially. There's been a shift happening in my life and that terrified me so I took the last 2 months to withdraw and how this video is the first true content i've consumed to slowly get back into this space is nothing but a blessing. This is motivation for me to take time to reflect on the value I have and that no matter what I do, I can be excited to see how my creativity can shift myself into the next level and stage of my life. Sending you all the positive energy to keep doin what you're doin girl! 🙌

[@buenoemmanuel07]

Feel good, have fun, do less, and earn enough - this is the mantra I always remember from you coming back after a year and its becoming mine as well. All best!

[@RekoMoreno]

Thank you for sharing! I've been following your journey for years now, and I have to say, I follow you for your authenticity, realness, and charm. You've become one of my favorite creators. You inspire me and introduce me to new ideas. Thank you so much for being YOU!

[@VanessaLau]

This means so much to me!! I'm so happy to know I'm one of your favourite creators. I'm glad you've been introduced to new ideas. Excited to share even more in my next few videos. Appreciate you!

[@AuthenblissityMain]

I love this video so much. I did The Artist's Way during the pandemic and it changed my life. I didn't even believe myself to be a creative person at the time, but after TAW, I decided to write a book! It was the best thing I've ever done and I was so excited when you mentioned writing in this video. It's such a wonderful and healing practice. I still write morning pages every day and it's been nearly five years. I'm really looking forward to following along with your new direction ❤

[@Rvlove]

1000% relate to this Vanessa. In 2008 I stopped reading and following other teachers and books to connect with my own inner voice and message and discover my own authentic self. Now I am stepping back from social media to do it again - and tap into what makes me unique and authentic. Your message is timely thank you! Above all, know you have SO much to share just by being you. Embrace it girl! I think you are fascinating and very wise! And brave.

[@VanessaLau]

HECK YES! I love this so so much.

[@phuongthaole754]

thank you for sharing this experience. It resonates to me deeply. Talking prematurely about my plans and make it turn into a sense of responsibility to fulfill them to others is one of the biggest lesson that I have learned and am still working on.

[@rodolfovaldivia7812]

Thank you for sharing and being vulnerable! 🥰 My life did a 180 degree change and I started my business and now YT channel because of my divorce. You see, I did not know this about you and now I feel a personal connection with you, even though I just started watching your videos last week.

[@frankieslight]

you dont know how many creators struggle with this and you have helped us all with this video... that graph. WOW. thank you.

[@SobrietyMadeSimple]

For my first year I would not watch another creator's video in my niche because I didn't want to feel like "that's not me ,I'm doing it wrong" and lose all self-confidence it really helped. Thanks for sharing. Your videos where a huge help to me when I started not just with inspiration but also the nuts and bolts of how KZbin works and the process of making a channel .Again thank you!

[@JMThings]

What's actually so amazing is that you feeling like this, feeling like you don't have value and sharing it, you're adding so much value to people's lives ♥ may God bless you in your growth journey

[@BaibaZiga]

I have watched this video twice and shared it with a number of my friends and colleagues. This was like an answered prayer or a received love letter to me, as these are the very questions I am asking myself and blocks I am working towards unblocking. Thank you for your courage to share this part of your journey!

[@irisnemetz3221]

I love the type of videos you are posting at the moment, this helps me so much as a smaller creator and I don't feel a lot of bigger creators share this information. Thank you so much Vanessa! 💗

[@zappermusics]

I watched your channel right from the beginning and I must say I really liked it sometimes. I still watch your canva learning videos always helped me. It was good to see you when you came back after a year. You get so emotional, you became an entrepreneur be happy some people can only dream of that success. Your a lovely woman.

[@cierraslowsdown]

I’m so glad you’re talking about this. I’ve been getting back into my Human Design studies around value a lot lately (my open heart center is WAILING at times!), and I’m planning to be super intentional in August around the value I bring to my life, and where I wanna place my time, focus, and energy. I’ve been watching Heidi Pribe here on YT to do inner work and one of the handful top things I remember her teaching me that’s seared in mind is to work on not abandoning yourself in ways you’ve felt abandoned growing up. Be the things to yourself you didn’t get as a child. I loved that! There’s so many thing I wish I’d gotten as far as emotional understanding growing up and I can give myself that patience and grace now. Sometimes, put your hand over your heart and tell yourself, “it’ll be okay, we’ll figure this out. I’ve got you. Let’s make this better. ♥️”

[@acp91_]

You are not your thoughts, you are a valuable person with so much to offer & God loves you.

[@DigitalBeautyVault]

Hi Vanessa. I’ve recently discovered your channel and the more I listen to you the more I feel “represented”, if that makes sense. What really struck me about your videos is you speak from the heart and that is RARE in this day and age. I hope to see more of your videos. :)

[@bellamoondiaries]

Please know you ur videos are directly help me! thank you for talking to me through sharing your story. Be you! Because yes you are a rare one! Sharing true genuine tips! Like literally post how you go about your day and talk about what you are thinking about and I will still tune in! Wow Joe Wu literally hit on the nail for myself as well thank you!

[@wannienshobole1647]

Vanessa, you inspire me a lot by just being you and doing what you love. You’ve given us so much value since you started your journey on KZbin and so many of us are still benefiting from what you’ve done creating all these valuable videos for us. Just keep doing you and we’ll keep showing up. Thank you for all you’ve done to help us and all that you’re still doing. I LOVE YOU❤❤❤

[@khalessi-x40]

Thank you for this video 🩷🩷. Love that you’re wanting to switch things up and be more you. I’ve been struggling with authenticity myself.. thinking that it should be something that comes so naturally but you’re right.. authenticity is something that’s hard to navigate. When there’s no one else like you.. there’s no blueprint on how to be. Thank you for your tips. Going to use that Story Inventory for myself! Love your vulnerability and I’m rooting for you! You are enough just as you are 💖

[@fernandomoralesyt]

I think that in this 2nd chapter (post sabbatical) you can focus on teaching others how to build an authentic personal brand; dude, you will CRUSH IT. Emotional connection is the name of the game. Thanks for your work and vulnerability Vanessa :)

[@anageorgina]

I feel like you are a soul twin, much younger, from another galaxy or universe in the multiverse 😂 You have so much self awareness and I love learning how you process using modern tools and language and even technology. I wish I had such level of awareness before but each one of us is in their journey. Thanks for sharing!

[@aatiya19]

He's so right.. What we want from you is 'you' So far I have clicked on every single video without carrying for content.. You are authentic and pure.. That's the only thing that matters. I will cherish every thing that drops out of your mouth

[@FatimaBabaeiMedia]

I came across your video at just the right moment, and I want to thank you for creating it. Your work is truly inspiring, and I appreciate all that you do.

[@ChatB.E.G.beautyfitness]

🌹You’re so young, growing and learning . You’re doing great!!

[@luminousvox29]

Your Saturn return!!! You’re gonna blossom so hard after this!

[@Joeyearnwithjoey]

You’re such an inspiration for me. So please don’t beat yourself up. Love you, girl.

[@aishasultan96]

I wanna hug you! We all love you for who you are.

[@JasmineeeWu]

Omgg I grew up in Austin and lived in Van for high school and college, you would love it!

[@happyhauntslibrary]

First, thank you for your vulnerability. Second, this resonated on sooooo many levels. You affirmed a thought I had regarding the challenge I face to be confident in content when nobody really does what I do in the way that I do it. I appreciate you!!

[@VanessaLau]

Yes! Nobody out there is an exact match as you. But that shouldn't mean there's no market for the content you want to create. Thank you for being here. Appreciate YOU!

[@Lensthisbeauty]

I felt this! I'm going through this right now and I'm not sure how to go forward because I've been giving so much value for free and it feels like I have nothing to show for it -- mainly for myself. I felt like I tried everything and had no traction. I'm on the journey of re-branding everything.

[@ellydias1315]

Vannesa this video has so much value and sharing about your journey. Keep on going you will get your creative juices going for you. Your story resonate so much with me of how much I was holding back and now I can trust myself to be me and become more. Thanks darling you are doing great. ❤

[@viriamadaniela3589]

Your authenticity regarding your journey is what made me believe in myself. 3 months ago, I would have never believed in myself or the things that I can achieve without your content. I couldn’t thank you enough for being yourself. I hope one day I get to meet you.

[@blackbeltsecrets]

This really hit hard for me, thanks for being you and sharing x

[@YalisCommunity]

Thank you, Vanessa, for sharing so many valuable lessons of being kind to ourselves, that we are all worthy just by being who we are and to treat ourselves as we would like to be treated. When your mentor asked you do you think you have been a real friend to yourself it resonated with me, because it is sometimes easier to be present and good to others specially our loved ones but not to ourselves. Thank you for this video. May you have an awesome day.

[@ashlostbones]

Thank you for sharing this. After graduating from college with a degree in graphic design a couple of months ago, I took a break from social media and it was definitely the right decision. I needed to recenter myself, decompress and really figure out if design was the career I truly wanted or was it social media that influenced me. I came back to social media sure that I want a career in design for myself, not because I was influenced, but that also comes with the price of needing to be chronically online to grow my audience, find clients etc. Social media has become a blessing and a curse, especially for us entrepreneurs that want to utilize all the tools at our disposal.

[@jasminekroezeart]

Beautiful vulnerability. I’m always thinking about how much I share as a creator and what to keep private. It takes so much courage to be as open as you are!! Thanks for sharing ❤

[@TARIK_HASAN]

If you didn’t have value, thousands of people wouldn’t have been waiting for your comeback. Personally, I made a thank you video to YOU Vanessa on my channel during your recent birthday post. Although I made the video private as I still have a fear of going online, but if it will uplift you even just little, I’m ready to have the courage and make it public. Stay strong!

[@maiDWSW]

Do it ❤

[@VanessaLau]

What!!! That's amazing, I'd love to see it! Even if it's unlisted! Apppreciate you so much and can't wait to see you online more :)

[@TARIK_HASAN]

@@maiDWSW I’ve done it 🥳

[@TARIK_HASAN]

@@VanessaLau I’m not sure why my comment didn’t show up with the video link, but I’ve made it public you may search: A Thank You Message To Vanessa Lau, I hope you’ll like it as I meant every word. 🥳

[@woofandwonder]

👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@inspiredcitizen2226]

Saw value in content after a long time. And I'll be saving this to view later too. So i dont forget what i learned. More power to u girl ❤🎉

[@Hemant.Chauhan]

We can not realise the power and the potential of a place where we have not reached yet. Validation is good for our thoughts and ideas but when it's me vs me... it's a whole lot of a different journey - A self discovery. All the very best @Vanessa. You are very brave 💪

[@maiautumn]

I am so glad I found this video 😭 I’m terrified to start my channel, write blogs, any of it. I have a huge following, and I never realized this fear is this same feeling. I didn’t even think about the fact that I’ve gotten to that third phase. I pretty much had a mental breakdown two years ago because I couldn’t accept that anyone would pay me just to be me 😭 Thank you for opening up about this side of being a content creator! ❤ I always feel like I’m complaining about how lucky I am, and that just isn’t it at all. It’s just paralyzing sometimes when you feel seen, and you don’t feel worthy of it!

[@minimarti1]

Thank you for this

[@corinaceren1]

In every single video I get something valuable ❤ thanks for sharing your thoughts 💭

[@Doby-xc1le]

hi vanessa i just wanted to say i appreciate your transparency and vulnerability so much. i relate a lot to you because after being unemployed for a couple years, i found it really hard for me to go make friends or even see my old/current friends because i was embarrassed/ashamed of myself and i also felt like id be judged or make my friends disappointed and was ashamed of myself, going from this employed, hard-working, ambitious person to basically "nothing". turns out, all of this was obviously just in my own head and me being way too hard on myself and hating myself and being embarrassed when i just simply burned out. none of my friends judged me or looked down on me and i realized i really had nothing to be embarrassed about. were some friends surprised that i stopped working, sure of course they were. but i realized i really had nothing to be ashamed of and no one made me feel or treated me any differently because of it (and of course not - real friends would never do that). so my lesson here is that no one has the capacity to be harder on myself than me, and honestly i wasted a lot of time hiding in my home because i was too ashamed to show myself when in reality no one was going to be judging me on the outside, but im glad of the lessons that i learned at the very least, and i am now a lot less hard on myself for burning out and am a lot less insecure of the situation because no one was really judging me for anything. if anything, it was genuine care and concern for my well-being and i should never have been so hard on myself for this! real friends will stay friends with you regardless of perceived success, and new friends who are future real friends would also not care about perceived success either! you made a video shortly after your comeback called "Pivoting is hard and this is how I REALLY feel" and I really appreciated that video as well and just wanted to give a little bit of advice - don't be too hard on yourself for being "not transparent enough" or not showing the "real" side of you as much as you think you are supposed to. at the end of the day, we all have some degree of privacy that we like to keep, not just off the internet but even within our own friendships and our families. and even ourselves (i.e., there are things about ourselves that we cant even admit to ourselves). you have already been so transparent online compared to the 99.9% of people on social media who are only posting highlight reels and nothing more. so i hope that reading this lifts some of that weight off of your shoulders! you seem to be way too hard on yourself for the image you are putting out (i get it - we all a bit self conscious about this for one reason or another) to the world when i think you should only be proud of yourself for what you have been willing to share. and it isnt necessarilly wrong or right to share more or share less - just whatever you feel comfortable with and whatever YOU truly want to post. if there are things that you dont feel comfortable sharing - please dont be hard on yourself for keeping certain things private! no one is judging you harder than yourself (and this is something i need to learn myself as well) and you are so so appreciated!

[@mariannerady1137]

You're not alone in this. Thanks for sharing, this is super helpful! I really needed this to get unstuck myself 💜

[@VanessaLau]

You're welcome! I'm glad you found it helpful - I know you'll find clarity and confidence soon - it's within you! Sometimes we just need to get out of your own way.

[@danathecreator]

hey girl, thank you for making this video because I felt the exact same way. I used to work in Finance and after I quit, I didn't know how to articulate my value anymore. I hid myself away for a long time and only recently had the courage to start my dream of becoming a content creator on KZbin, something I've honestly been thinking about since I was a teenager. I know how hard it feels to be authentic, especially when you feel like nobody's cheering for you. Just know you're not alone and to quote High School Musical, we're [all] in this together.

[@poomdizzle]

Dang needed this - great video. Cringe posting this, but no joke your probably one of most valuable people on YT/IG I follow. The amount of value is crazy. You spew out learnings. Keep it up

[@ashleyherjung1526]

Vanessa, I love your content because they’re well thought out and are so relevant to me! Whenever I watch your videos, I think to myself “ah you get me.” Can’t wait for the next one! Stay well! ❤

[@beemovieisok]

i literally feel like you. this hit me at the most opportune time.

[@solitudinoustia]

This video couldn't have come at a better time. Exactly everything I need to hear. Thank you

[@sharonjoane]

You are value

[@VanessaLau]

😭😭😭😭 thank you so much Sharon. This means a lot to me

[@MarkHarbert]

Great video Vanessa. I love that you talked about taking time to withdraw. One of the things I do, you might do this too, but I do long weekend sabbaticals regularly. Every 3-4 months, I rent out a hotel/airbnb and its only me. My wife stays back, but for me its time alone in the quiet. I shut off social media and get a pad and paper and just write. I sleep, I meditate, I rest and process information. I set new goals and make sure I am where I want to be. Its been a life changer for me and my business. Many times we forget to take time for ourselves to work through information and our own selves. Self care goes a long way. Appreciate you.

[@VanessaLau]

That sounds AMAZING! Yes, currently I take guilt-free breaks for weeks and months, but I do like the idea of scheduling that break so I don't just fall off the face of the internet and people have no idea when i'm coming back lol! I love the idea of just being alone - reading, writing, sleeping, meditating. All of that sounds like a dream. I love this so much, thank you so much for taking the time to share!! I'm definitely inspired by this!

[@MarkHarbert]

@@VanessaLauawesome I am so glad. Really appreciate your realness and openness to share your journey.

[@Curiousthemes]

I really appreciate you sharing your story and process working through old beliefs that are holding you back. I'm going on a similar journey as well and it is so helpful to see that I'm not the only one. Thank you for being you and for sharing!

[@adorkablestudio]

This is gold! I recently also starting a "story inventory" but I didn't know that is what it is called. I love your ChatGPT idea. That is the second step for me. Thank you for sharing this! Helps with my journey as well.

[@MarcusHart]

Vanessa you were very young when you first started out. I remember when I first stumbled on you and you helped me stay consistent in my podcast. I wished took the other tips lol but I never had the bandwidth because of kids. But now you growing up and you are a definitely an icon and leader. Proud of you.

[@VanessaLau]

Thank you so much Marcus! Yes! I was like... 24? I'm now 30!! Glad that so many of you are evolving with me and being a part of this journey and new phase of life.

[@Twintuitive717]

Thank you so much for making this video Vanessa. You have no idea how much your vulnerability has helped me on my own journey. Keep going, you have incredible value, just look back at how much success you've already had :) You've impacted so many people in a positive way. Sending big hugs.

[@LorellaCantos]

This is so scary and exciting because I had a download about exactly this and it was confirmed to me in an oracle reading that I get paid to be myself

[@allisonmak471]

Absolutely love this genuine content. It's SO refreshing

[@chinweamaka]

I feel a lot like this, have been in this state lately. Like i have no value, even to myself. For the past 3 years, I've been consistently creating and sharing, and when i took a break and came back, I felt like there's nothing left to give. That feeling of utter uselessness to the world and to yourself. Stemming from the feeling of not being able to give more of you as you are used to.

[@jo-anna5764]

Your journey from doing your sabbatical and you coming back is so inspiring! Honestly I want to take a sabbatical! I'm tired and I'm exhausted! So true! Social Media causes more of my anxiety bec I keep comparing

[@IronWill963]

You still have tremendous value for us your viewers. Keep making content ✨️

[@marketingbylaiza]

OMG! Thank you so much for making this video! This hits home!

[@angiesegura5998]

I love this! Self love is sooo important especially when being a n entrepreneur. Preach sister.

[@kimerav]

around 8 mins 😭wow, needed that 💗glad you landed on realizing you are so valuable just by being you.

[@bananali2676]

you dont understand how much i love this video , this is so real

[@beautiandlove1469]

I looove vulnerable Vanessa. Your content lately has touched me on such a deeper level mainly because we have similar struggles. It’s inspiring seeing you face this imperfectly and courageous af! ❤

[@ilailad]

these kind of videos from you I found it the most valuable, you share your struggles and findings as creative, that helps us a tone.. like it's actually priceless! so thank you.

[@ChristinaWhiteWolfe]

Who are you when you strip away any titles? How would you describe yourself if you can say what you do??? People have difficulty describing themself because we are so attached to our career. And when that title is stripped. Then who are we?? And this is the journey I went on 8 years ago to find myself. From being a successful financial advisor to a stay at home mom changing diapers as fast as she can and giving my world to my kids.. I lost myself. Some call it midlife crisis. I had it all. New 5 bedroom house, new Range Rover, I had everything. And felt like I had nothing. That was the path to find my mission on earth. And now I’m helping others. I’m a plant medicine ceremony facilitator and also through breathwork helping so many find their happiness and who they are. And Vanessa what you are offering now is so amazing. You are talking now about soul evolution. You’re talking about clarity. Truth. It’s beautiful love. So proud of you. 💕💕💕🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🐺🐺. Btw. I’m Asian and was given the name White Wolfe through this journey. That’s a story I’d love to tell you one day.

[@MultipleCareers]

I understand the feeling of thinking you don't offer any value. The point you mentioned about that 'it's possible to be you' (rephrasing) is very insightful. Since there's no one else exactly like us, we try to look for validation of the way we are in vain. I think the fact there's no one to really measure yourself against shows how unique you are. You do offer tremendous value, although you might not realize it. That is why, I think, I have come back to watch your videos throughout the past 5 years or so. You're being vulnerable with your audience, but not for too long to make it self-indulgent, just long enough to let us feel your real struggle, and you always follow it up with some precious nuggets about how we all can live better lives. And beneath that you have so much experience with social media and skills surrounding it, and know what you're talking about.

[@melaniegriesemer]

Wow that’s such a mind blowing concept - something I knew deep down but it was so helpful hearing it put into words: that it’s impossible to find evidence anywhere of exact examples of how to be ourselves because no one else is our unique self! No one shares our unique story. The importance of withdrawing, pouring into ourselves. I love that! Thank you for sharing all of this.

[@VanessaLau]

Yes! There's no way you can find an exact replica of you, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't show up as yourself and talk about the things you find interesting! A lot of people who reach massive success on social media are actually the people who are authentically themselves. And then lots of people end up copying them. Also, yes, withdrawing is so key sometimes to regrounding yourself! Thank you for watching so much of the video :)

[@BelovedKanika]

I LOVE YOU VANESSA YOURE MY FAVOURITE CHANNEL EVER BECAUSE YOU WENT TO THE TOP AND ALL YOUR REALIZATIONS OF LOVING YOURSELF TO NOT OVERWORK AND BEING TRUE TO YOURSELF INSTEAD HAS IMPACTED ME THE MOST AND THIS IS THE MOST REAL VIDEO EVER! WE NEED THIS MORE THAN YOU WILL EVER UNDERSTAND! THIS IS WHAT THE WHOLE OF THE EAST IS STRIVING FOR TO CALM THE CONSUMER CULTURE AND APPRECIATE NATURE AS IT IS WITHOUT HAVING TO PROVE YOURSELF BECAUSE OF OUR INHERENT VALUE AS PART OF NATURE! THE WEST HAS FORGOTTEN THIS AND THE EAST IS ROOTED IN UNDERSTANDING WHAT YOURE TRYING TO EXPLAIN THROUGH YOUR QUITTING VIDEOS! KEEP GOING! YOURE VALUE IS INHERENT OUTSIDE OF BUSINESS AND SOCIAL MEDIA. I PROMISE.WE LOVE YOU! THANK YOU!

[@gratefullymaed]

Honestly, it doesn’t matter. No matter what you share, people will just find bits and pieces and not the whole story. Not every jigsaw will fit right and that’s okay. Because there’s no real end just a journey. You are uniquely you at what you do because you always did it out of passion and love. I rarely comment but felt like I needed to share that you are a child of God, he would want nothing but your happiness long as you see it in you as well. Sending love, Vanessa. 💛

[@themicrodosementor]

I love all the topics you’ve been talking about lately. They are so relatable

[@christianwmeyer]

Thank you, Vanessa, 🙏 for this honest insight. Content Creation is much more than producing content. We are all real humans with ups and downs. Keep up the good work 💪✅

[@AldoJames]

100% he hit the nail on the head with the doing, communicating, and being and you've hit the 3rd stage! I used to listen to your content to learn about building a social media now it's just cool to hear about what you're doing after it all

[@VanessaLau]

Yes!! It's also really cool to see it visually laid out and explained the way Joe explained it. There's a time where it's possible for you to outgrow your niche and to tap into sharing your true essence more with your community :) often times, they may even want that from you!

[@SlimeAndSlashers]

I connected with this so much, and I really needed this as lately I keep thinking that "I'm the issue with my content not being more successful," and this made me think a little differently about that. Thanks so much for posting this!