Escape
Editor’s letter

We always use imagination, fiction, travel, and adventure in order to find ourself. We find ways to escape our situation even when you can’t physically leave (hi, college).
Trust me, I’m no different than you, we all try to escape obligations, standards, and stereotypes especially expectations bestowed upon us by society. But, do not mistake Escape for something precious.
We still want you all to take over the universe! This month’s theme is about living outside the convention and defining happiness and success for yourself.
Consider this quotation from Beyoncé (who is always relevant):
There is room on this earth for many queens. I have an authentic, God-given talent, drive, and longevity that will always separate me from everyone else. I’ve been fortunate to accomplish things that the younger generation of queens dream of accomplishing. I have no desire for anyone else’s throne. I am very comfortable in the throne I’ve been building for the past 15 years
A month ago, after feeling overworked and overwhelmed by how many eyes were on TEDx and on me, I thought the only way to escape the pressures that come with a conventional idea of success was to disappear completely. I seriously contemplated calling it a day, moving to the woods, and “nobly” becoming some bear (so, I can hiberanate).
I was considering giving up my aspirations because I was scared of drama and how everything changes with one miscommunication. At the end of the day, my best friend convinced me that the only way to feel free is to remind myself that relationships should bring peace into your life.
Yesterday, while working all this out, I wrote in my diary: What do I care about?
- Being the CEO of my own life. Climbing to the top of my own ladder. Building my own throne.
- Giving thought to the projects I choose. “Build a good name…. Eventually, that name will be its own currency.” —William S. Burroughs
- Accounting for praise and criticism alike with a grain of salt.
- Letting myself get excited about fun opportunities and side projects, but remembering not to let it define me or become a priority.
- Having good friends with whom I can share mutual support, trust, understanding, and love. Sticking by the people I can talk to about anything. Knowing the value of a good sleepover. Being there for my loved ones.
- Reading books, watching movies and listening to music that inspire and teach me.
- Showing appreciation for the good things and good people in my life at all times. Not taking anything for granted. Focusing on what I do have, not what I don’t.
- Taking care of myself, feeling embodied and healthy.
- Making memories.
- Being present.
I know it’s super self-help-y, but it can be hard to put things plainly without walking into life-changing scenrios! My point is that it’s nice to keep in touch with yourself while going after what you want.
I want my work to feel like something people can interact with and respond to. But I don’t want to spend my time chasing approval either; I want to make things I care about and see praise as an added bonus.
So, for this month or the next, and continue to slay in all of life’s arenas. (That was a typo, I meant to say “areas,” but ARENAS IT IS.)
Love,
Anisha Valli
