“More Than Enough” Dives into the Universal Journey of Coming into One’s Own

More Than Enough is one of those books that is so captivating that you don’t want to stop reading but then again, you want to space out the chapters because you don’t want to be done reading it so soon….UGH the dilemma.

Over the course of 2 months, I paced myself while also immersing myself in this book that seemed like it was written just for me. 24 chapters that helped a twenty-something year old black girl realize that no one has it all figured out, and even if we think we do, the journey to get there, won’t be how we’d plan. How does the saying go? “When man plans, God laughs.” But the beauty of it all is coming to your own on your own terms.

I had not heard of Elaine Welteroth before this, but a close friend of mine sent me this book knowing I needed some boss lady inspo in my life. Mission Accomplished. I finished this book feeling empowered and inspired to find my own, authentic voice.

In More Than Enough, Elaine shares her journey in finding her place as a young biracial woman, pursuing a career in media and fashion, and claiming her space no matter what they say. This manifesto/memoir explores the various stages of Elaine’s personal and professional life from holding on to romantic relationships that have long ran its course (one that I am very guilty of), to overcoming her own imposter syndrome, to becoming the youngest and only the second Black editor-in-chief in Condé Nast history at Teen Vogue at the age of 29. With this position, she found herself on the frontlines of a modern movement, shifting Teen Vogue’s focus to feature articles on inclusion and politics. Can you say #blackgirlmagic? She tells her story in such a real way, without skipping over the struggle, embarrassing moments, experiences when she felt unsure or the messier parts of life. I kept finding myself nodding my head and whispering a “yesssss” or “right?!” as I read.

Every chapter starts and ends with a quote; one in the beginning from a prominent figure and one from Elaine herself that highlights that chapter. My favorite quote is from Elaine who says, “If we aren’t vigilant, we can move through our entire lives feeling smaller than we actually are–by playing safe, by unconsciously giving away our power, by dimming our radiance, by not recognizing there is always much more waiting for us on the other side of fear. But when we are brave enough–to go there, to grab what we want, to tap into who we are–damn it feels so good.” This one punched me right in the gut (in a good way).

Not feeling like enough is common no matter what stage in life you’re at. From not feeling smart enough, pretty enough, talented enough, these thoughts can hold us back. But I am more than enough and so are you, even if we are a work in progress.

And “when the world tells you to shrink, expand.”