Today we’d like to introduce you to Jalika Cherie.
So, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
A year ago, I was known as Joni Kruz. I was the Photographer, the Music Artist, the Mom, and the Lost Soul that was searching for who she was. I thought I had it together. I had released my debut single and booking shoots. I was proud of myself. I was successfully controlling my depression. Or so I thought.
Then came the night in October when I had one of the worst episodes in my life. Due to my anger, I put myself in danger and I put my then boyfriend (now fiancé) in danger. That’s when I knew something had to give. I had finally accepted that I was not doing as well as I thought. When I calmed down, I told my boyfriend that it was time to go drop off my prescription for anti-depressants that I had sitting on my desk for months. I finally accepted my diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder with Psychosis. Later also, diagnosed with PTSD.
After taking my meds for a few months, I decided that I would start a blog hoping that it would be therapeutic since I loved writing. I figured it would help me along the path to writing a book. I launched “Sincerely, Jalika Cherie” in February. It feels amazing to see how many people have positively responded to my blog. The thought of knowing that it helps others is what keeps me going. I’ve even started working on merchandise which is set to be released on my site by the end of this year. I will also be releasing more music and I will continue my photography hobby.
I am proud to see how far I’ve come in only a year. It’s funny because I said the same thing last year, not knowing that I would move a lot further along on my self-growth journey. I have comfort in knowing that my voice can be heard through my writing instead of vocally. I’m a much better writer than I am a speaker so it’s definitely a confidence booster.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It’s always a struggle! I still have those days where I don’t even want to get out of bed. I’ve had to push myself to write. I’ve had to push myself to do photoshoots and edit photos. I’ve even had to push myself to sing. Sometimes, I have no interest in anything at all. I find myself pretending to be positive so that I can help others. Giving them advice while I’m struggling mentally.
I have my fiancé, my mom, my close friends and family to thank. Especially my daughter. Along with the meds, they all help keep me sane. They constantly remind me that I have to be okay, not only for myself but for them as well. Not only are they reading my content (minus my newborn and seven-year-old) and enjoying my art, there are complete strangers who look forward to my work. Regardless of the many breakdowns I’ve had over the past few months, they have been there to help me through each one.
I’ve let some family members go over the past few months. I talk about that in my post “7 Struggles Of A Person With A Toxic Family Member”. I have yet to decide whether I have permanently or temporarily let them go. I’ll figure it out as time progresses.
Please tell us about Sincerely, Jalika Cherie.
Not only am I a Lifestyle Blogger who focuses on various topics including motherhood and mental health, but I am also a Photographer, Singer, Designer, and a Mom. I work hard and I am always taking steps to perfect my many crafts. You’re probably wondering why I listed mom. Well, being a mom is a specialty within itself, biological or not. It takes a strong person to do this job and still do other jobs along with it.
I am most proud of my growth as a person and a brand. I’ve done a complete three-sixty with both and I am loving the results. What sets me apart from other is that I am me. I have my own style. Everyone has their own which is what sets us all apart from each other. This is why I like to work with others because bringing a community together creates more powerful results.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
My proudest moment was when my blog hit 700 views. That may not seem like a lot but it is to me. The fact that I am able to reach people so many times makes me feel like I am doing something, not matters. No just doing something that makes me feel better. 700 views shows me that more and more people will come as time progresses.
Here’s to many more views, bookings, and successes!
Contact Info:
- Website: Jalikacherie.com
- Email: Jalikac@Jalikacherie.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jalikacherie/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Jalikacherie/
Image Credit:
Sincerely Jalika Cherie, Jalika Cherie Photography
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