Elevating to the next level with your life goal can seem like a daunting task. Ominous questions like ‘where do I begin?’ can easily deter one’s success due to fear. But the moment when you rise above your obstacles is truly liberating and inspiring. And it’s just what Toyota asked me to consider in the spirit of their 2015 Corolla #LetsElevate Campaign.

Now, do you need a Corolla to take part in this? Absolutely not! You may have just bought a Rav and are looking at the Toyota Rav4 car covers to keep it protected. Or maybe you’ve had the same Toyota for years. Or maybe you don’t even have a Toyota! It doesn’t matter what car you have, the point is that we want you to find a way to Elevate.

In the beginning stages of my website, I focused my energy in consistently searching for ways to improve. With notebook in hand, I engaged journalists whose suggestions and opinions would help fine-tune my passion into a now successful digital platform. In a saturated space, I worked tirelessly to discover who exactly my audience was, then appeal to their needs to garner their unique attention. I consistently updated my site. If it was hot and trending, I was covering it. I’d never leave an event without making at least three to five contacts. I knew if I wanted to grow my following, I had to post regularly, stay current, and plugged into what was going on.

I also focused my attention on setting myself apart from other websites that came before me and ultimately after me. Despite these early hurdles, sticking with my passion paved the way to forge my own success.

Dedication and hard work will take you very far in life. I am living proof that believing in the dream and myself can become reality. It isn’t easy nor is it meant to be, but achieving your goals and living in your life’s purpose is worth the sleepless nights.

Now it’s time for you to show us how you’re reaching the next level. Toyota and I invite you to share how you are changing the game using #LetsElevate in your post. Watch one of my clips above and get familiar with Jabari Johnson (filmmaker), Rahmaan Statik (artist), and Rachel Johnson (celebrity stylist) who are also sharing their unique elevating moments.