Daily Inspiration: Meet Dejah Barksdale

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dejah Barksdale

Hi Dejah, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I began my work in the spiritual community after I graduated college. I had moved back home with a family member I didn’t have the best relationship with. I was processing the end of a relationship with someone I saw a future with. Also I was trying to navigate the beginning of my adulthood series with minimal assistance. I felt extremely isolated, overwhelmed, and couldn’t afford therapy. So, to help me cope, I created a series on my Instagram account called “Speak.” The intention behind this series was to overcome my crippling fear of speaking about things that bothered me. I would wait until I had the house to myself, set up a tripod in front of my window, and would share my journal entries. Although I wasn’t consistent with posting, the intention I had behind those videos became the building blocks for where I am today.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
To be 1000% honest, it could’ve been a road as smooth as melted butter if I had believed in AND trusted myself from the beginning. I’ve always been one to make things more complicated as a way of “proving myself” to others. However, I gradually learned that the life I choose to lead is only for me to be proud of. I faced a lot of struggles along the way. I was impatient and wanted my success to reach me overnight. I focused heavily on the numbers: the likes, the views, the follows. But the biggest struggle I faced was forgetting why I started in the first place. I would compare myself a lot to other creators in the same field. I had to focus less on the things I could not control, and hone in on what I could. I would write down my “why” in every journal and would plaster it on the wall, so no matter the mood I was in, I would always be reminded of what I’m here to do.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a tarot reader. I am a Youtube vlogger that shares her journey throughout her late 20’s. I am a Yoga Teacher in training. I am a spiritual mentor/guide. In short, I am someone openly sharing their story with the eyes and ears that feel called to tune in. I am the most proud of my growing community via TikTok and Youtube. I love having the chance to chat with people, share our stories, and insight. It feels like a warm hug. I believe my honesty is what sets me apart from others. I will never sugar-coat the truth or tell half a story. When we’re honest with each other, our communication and connection strengthens. The truth empowers us, which helps us move beyond the fog we’ve become so comfortable in.

What do you like and dislike about the city?
Nashville is a beautiful city that is ever-growing. The food-scene has improved, which is always a blessing. I’m grateful there’s more to explore than hitting the strip on Broadway. There isn’t too much I dislike about the city. I believe it has great potential and is a great place to visit for those considering it. Although I’ve lived here all my life, it isn’t my home. I’m grateful for the experiences I’ve gained living here, but I’m ready to set ground elsewhere soon.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phasesofself?igsh=MW90dGoyM2Z0dmFwbw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@dejxlounge?si=VVLsYr0RIc1izK8e
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@dejaaahxo?_t=ZT-8tvaVcL9nYY&_r=1