Meet Jaydah Jacobs | Author of “Seasonal Flaws” & “Embrace Your Flaws” Workshop Leader

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jaydah Jacobs and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jaydah, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
When something is worth the fight, I feel it in my soul. I can try to let go and put my dreams on the back burner because things aren’t working out, but then there’s always this lingering emptiness inside or even agitation. It’s an inner knowing I can’t run from that tells me I need to keep going because I’m meant for more in this life even when it’s hard to believe.

On the flip side, when I overcome the discouragement to focus on the life that’s meant for me I feel at peace. Even when it looks like I’ll never be the author I’ve dreamed of or my book isn’t selling as much, I know that if I keep going – no matter how long it takes – I’ll get to the finish line. This keeps me motivated and makes it all worth it.

I’d say if anyone is struggling with knowing whether to give up or keep going, then check your spirit. What makes you feel the most fulfilled? What drains your energy the most? What makes you feel like you were born for a reason? What makes you feel like you’re just going through the motions of life? Those questions helped me make some of the biggest decisions of my life like leaving a job without another one lined up, self-publishing a book without already having an audience of readers, and ultimately believing in myself enough to take risks.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is meant to be a mirror. Although I write fiction novels it reflects real life back to readers and leads them to consider their own mindsets, behavior and decisions. I’ve been really interested in psychology for some years now and I integrate a huge part of that into what I write even though it’s for young adults. My writing style isn’t meant to be a form of escapism or fantasy, nor is it overly dramatic. Ultimately, it’s meant to encourage anyone going through similar situations in their own life so that they feel seen, heard and understood.

This journey I’m on as an author is full of highs and lows. I wish it was easier but I’m also learning how to celebrate even the small wins and not nitpick my art so much. This process of being more flexible and open-minded with how my journey should look challenges me but it’s creatively rewarding. Overthinking the process or being too rigid really stifles my writing so I try to stay away from that mindset and embrace the present moments instead.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
So much to do so little time! I’d definitely have to take them on a scenic, top down drive on PCH because it’s such a nice view. If they’re into hiking, then the Culver City stairs / Baldwin Hills scenic overlook or Runyon would be perfect for a nice little workout and another dope view. Biking or skating on the beach boardwalk (Santa Monica, Hermosa, Manhattan, Torrance, or Redondo beach) would also be a good time for anyone who’s visiting from a non-beach city.

For food, they’d have to try street tacos at least once! It’s like an LA staple to me and most people who’ve tried them when with me have loved them so (I think) they’re a hit. I wouldn’t force In-N-Out on anyone, but I’d want to take them to Leimert Park to check out some of the black owned shops over there and get Jamaican food from Ackee Bamboo Jamaican Cuisine. I get the Jerk chicken plate and it is so good!

For the vibes, we’d go to a rooftop like the Perch (DTLA) & Mama’s Shelter (West Hollywood), and another great place with amazing food and a beautiful view is Castaway in Burbank. I would also take them to Century City and Melrose to shop because, why not?

Also, would want to throw out there that South Coast Botanic Garden in Palos Verdes is another beautiful place to take great pictures. Pretty far from the LA area but it’s worth the drive.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’m so grateful for my village of family and friends who support my little moments just as much as my big ones. There are so many people I could name because I have not been on this journey by myself at all (thankfully!), but I won’t go down the full list today. I really want to start by giving my cousin, Ashlee, her flowers in this shoutout.

She’s really more like a sister to me and during one of the most emotional, disappointing and discouraging seasons of my life she quite literally spoke life back into me every step of the way. She has been my rock and my go-to person for my embarrassingly vulnerable moments that are usually reserved for my journal and prayers to God. I’m grateful for her listening ear during challenging times, gentle nudges to hold me accountable, prayers and the love she poured into me when I really needed it. My “cuzzo”, as I love to call her not only offers a safe, judgement-free zone to me but she also allows God to use her to heal others. Ashlee is now a therapist accepting clients on https://www.ashleeyve.com and anyone in her care is in gifted hands.

Another quick shoutout has to go to Karina Alejandra! She is one heck of a graphic designer, social media marketing guru and just dope person all around. She designed my website seasonalflaws.com and works with me on social media post ideas, branding and any creative task I ever need help with. Huge flower bouquet for her and my best friend Daryn who introduced the two of us!

Website: https://www.seasonalflaws.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seasonalflaws/