Meet Cierra Turks, a resilient individual who has navigated the intricate journey of transitioning from being her grandmother’s caretaker to focusing on her own personal growth and aspirations. In this insightful interview, Cierra shares her experiences, challenges, and strategies that have helped her prioritize self-care, find fulfillment, and embrace her true passions. From maintaining mental and emotional well-being to discovering new avenues in writing and spiritual growth, Cierra’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and self-discovery.
How did you navigate the transition from being your grandmother’s caretaker to focusing on yourself and your own journey?
I thought it was going to be a slower transition, but it happened faster than i thought. Once I made up my mind of what I wanted out of my life and what I wanted to do, I knew it was right. My grandmother was big on not letting people hold you back, living your best life, so I like to think I’m doing what she and I have worked so hard to do. I’m living for her.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced during this transition, and how did you overcome them?
The quietness really. Even when I wasn’t taking care of her, I was always with her and she and I would rarely have moments where we didn’t talk during the day. Also, having slower weekends because she wasn’t the type of person to stay in the house. Either grocery shopping or going to the thrift stores we frequented, we would be out of the house from 8 am- 4pm. I’ve spending more time to myself and dedicating that extra time to my hobbies and now currently creating content, writing three books, and connecting with my spirituality.
What role did your grandmother play in shaping your perspective on life and self-care?
She played a huge role. We were both going through our own situations, but it was like we were at the same stage at the same time. We were both investing in ourselves, building our wardrobes, feeling more confident in ourselves, and still learning every day. I have grown more with her than i have at college. She was also big on treating yourself and I definitely apply that to my life now.
How did you maintain your mental and emotional well-being while balancing caretaking responsibilities and your own personal growth?
It was a struggle I will admit, but I took it day by day. I love reading, so that was a big aspect of it. Also, I was working at my old middle school and everyone was welcoming, so I didn’t feel stressed. Also, we did rest some days and that’s when I spent time playing Sims, which I’m obsessed with.
Were there any specific coping mechanisms or support systems that helped you through difficult times?
My boyfriend did help being able to talk to him, my coworkers at my previous job were very comforting and my boss felt like family.
What self-discoveries did you make throughout this journey of rewriting your story?
I am capable of more than I thought I was. And now I’m learning that writing is something I want to do permanently. I will be starting my MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in May, so I figured out what I’m passionate about. That’s just what I learned so far but I’m learning every day.
Can you share any specific strategies or practices that have helped you prioritize self-care and personal growth?
Monthly reflections, weekly goals, dedicating time to my spiritual journey, being connected with my ancestors, blocking out times for self care or having a specific day (Sundays usually).
How do you define success and fulfillment in your life now, compared to before your journey of rewriting your story?
I define success based on how I feel versus based on what I didn’t have back then.
What advice would you give to someone who is struggling to prioritize their own needs and rewrite their own story?
It takes time and that’s okay. One day you’ll have the motivation get things done, but the next you’re grieving. Take it day by day, and just trying is better than not starting at all. What i’m saying is, give yourself grace.
