What inspired you to start “Smile with Jenna”?

I first started playing around with the idea of creating a space to grow my passion for personal development, mental health, and positivity while I was in college. I had been going through a difficult period where I didn't feel like myself and just felt lost. I figured I probably wasn't the only one struggling in this way and that it would be fun to share my journey so that I didn't feel so alone in the process. I had a difficult time coming up with the name but was reminded of a past employer that nicknamed me "smiles" and recognized in myself that my smile is not only my trademark but also uniquely mine, in that no one can take that away from me, and thus Smile With Jenna was born!

Why is it so important to spread positivity on social media?

I learned at a young age that I never wanted to fit in. What I mean by this is I became deeply obsessed in owning myself and not trying to adhere to the standard. I see this a lot in social media. It's so easy to compare yourself and follow the newest trend, but what often comes from this comparison is negativity, not feeling worthy, or judging ourselves based on how others will perceive us. Defying the norm and focusing on the positive is not only beneficial for yourself but those around you. You may never know who may be struggling and in need of words of encouragement. A small message of positivity can go a long way, especially when what we see on screen isn't always an accurate representation of what's really going on in our lives.

What has helped you remain positive in light of the state of the world right now?

Gratitude. I have this sign in my bedroom that says, "Enjoy The Little Things". When I first got it I thought it was such a sweet saying, but in the past year or so, those words ring true now more than ever. Each day I try to write down 5 things I am grateful for, and it's never the big things, but always the small. There are so many little blessings we take for granted and it's not until you sit back and appreciate them that you realize how fortunate you are. When the state of the world becomes overwhelming I think to myself, "How can I be grateful for what I have now", and "What feelings can I control"? During these times especially, I have found gratitude in nature. Taking in my surroundings, enjoying the beautiful weather, and smiling every time I see a bluebird because I just discovered they are a symbol of joy and happiness! When the outside world feels chaotic, I constantly reassure myself that I am in charge of my own happiness and use that as the fuel to listen to my body and give it what it needs for the day in order to be my best self.

What do you think about the stigma around mental health in our country?

I think we're making progress in the fact that we are talking about it more regularly, but there is still SO much work to be done and I don't think the work will ever stop because it's something that we are constantly learning more about and gaining new information on every day. Mental health is something that everyone struggles with and I think the only way we will begin to destigmatize it is if it's treated with just as much importance as physical health is. The two go hand in hand. In order to have a healthy body, you must also have a healthy mind. It's just another topic we need to further educate ourselves on in order to have more open and comfortable conversations.

How can we make the conversation of mental health more comfortable?

When having conversations on mental health I think it's important to understand that you are not alone. When feelings are heavy it's easy to feel isolated but the truth is to some degree we all experience similar emotions, but we just don't openly talk about them to each other. When having a conversation do not judge, but listen. Often times when people are going through something difficult they just need someone to sit back and listen, not give advice, but provide a safe space of understanding and reassurance. 

You spread a lot of positivity and inspiring messages on your page! What inspires you??

My brother. I watched my brother battle with his mental illness his entire life and the biggest thing it taught me was patience and kindness. My positive and inspiring messages are a result of learning what he needed and also guiding myself through my darkest moment of putting together the pieces of my life again after losing him to suicide on March 27, 2019. I truly believe he has given me a vessel to share this passion of mine while also sharing the thoughts and experiences he too would have liked to spread out to the world. I hope to honor his life not in how it ended but celebrate the lessons he instilled in me, in the hopes they might empower others to cultivate more positivity in their lives.

Fun Facts About Jenna!

Favorite Color: Blue

Dream Vacation Destination: Greece, Santorini

What would you do with 1 million dollars: First I would pay off my student loans (hahaha), but then I would probably go travel the world and maybe do it in style, purchase a convertible 

Who Inspires You: Huge Rachel Hollis Fan

If you could live in any decade what would it be: 50's, take me to the sock hop!

How to find Jenna?

Instagram : @smilewithjenna // @jenna_atkinson_

Website: smilewithjenna.com

Facebook: @smilewithjenna

Join her Facebook group : https://www.facebook.com/groups/inspiredtosmile/

 *30 day challenge coming soon*

Jenna is currently in the process of becoming a certified life coach and will be offering services soon! Including a free discovery call just to chat.