Astrid Pena

Things that make me “me” are my culture and confidence. I personally feel like being a Dominican woman has shaped me to be who I am. I’m flavorful, bilingual, intelligent, witty, outgoing, fun, and hard-working. My Latino heritage plays a huge part into my everyday life from my taste in music, to the careers I apply for, and down to the food I eat. I’m confident in myself and life-purpose that I enjoy every human exchange and experience in my life. I love a sense of adventure and learning more about cultural traditions. I’m old-schooled with a “thinking-outside-of-the-box” open mind. My confidence alludes from my determination to work hard for the things I want and to create a life of longevity, luxury, and purpose.

I would say, I am somewhat of the black sheep in my family. I often choose to create my own boundaries for my own mental health and well-being and sometimes that can come across very differently to people. I am a person of opportunity and willingness to experience the world. I’m quick to speak up and address certain behaviors and patterns. Also, I am an independent woman providing a very specific lifestyle to myself, and that results in prioritizing, focus, and preparation. The “black sheep” comments to me are viewed as someone who is willing to stand up for change, take no bullshit, loving the skin they are in, being a person of their word, and creating/setting boundaries for themselves. Sometimes the black sheep is viewed as selfish, someone who doesn’t care for their family, or simply the oddball out. Well for me in any way shape or form, I will always choose myself and my preferred level of comfort before anything. I will never do a disservice to myself and not be who I am because this is me and my preferences.

My go-to affirmation is one about finances because I work hard and like enjoying the fruits of my labor … “ I spend my money with gratitude and it returns to me tenfold.”

(and if you could not tell I am a Sag Sun, Libra Moon, and Capricorn Rising)