After overcoming tremendous hardships including homeless, personal betrayals, and custody battles, author/entrepreneur Micaela Thomas poured her traumatic experiences into an inspirational story of perseverance, Stripped To My Truth: Unpacking The Emotional Baggage.

Thank you for taking out time for this interview. Let’s talk about the title, Stripped To My Truth. What was the inspiration for it?

Thanks for having me! The inspiration for Stripped to my Truth was definitely being able to peel away the layers of expectation that family, friends, employers and even strangers have for you. To be able to wear your own authenticity. To just BE in your truth without pushing any false narratives on yourself of what other people “think” you should be doing or rules you should be following.

Was it uncomfortable for you to share some of your most vulnerable moments with the public through your book?

It absolutely was. It’s never easy sharing parts of you that the world and social media are so comfortable with tearing apart. But there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I had to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Because with everything I went through and the caliber of people that I went through those things with, there is someone who can relate. My vulnerabilities could help them.

During times of hardship, how did you find the strength to keep going?

Prayer was and is definitely at the top of my list. Next to that, it was really just taking things 60 seconds at time and focusing in on what I was able to change more so than what I wasn’t able to change. I set multiple goals for myself, and I never let up. My babies are also always a factor. They watch everything I do. I have to set the example.

Your life journey is very inspirational. What has been the feedback so far?

I’ve received a tremendous amount of feedback in love and support. I’ve been encouraged by others to keep telling my story because it helps them get through their storms as well.

How has your experiences with dishonest people shaped your assessment on relationships?

The bottom line is you can’t change people. There are dishonest people wherever you go. It makes you wish you had a crystal ball or some sort of detector to cypher them out, but we don’t. So, you have to really zero in on your discernment. It’s one thing about it, those red flags will always wave. I personally, will give the opportunity for someone to show me who they are and then I will adjust my interactions with them accordingly.

Outside of your achievements as an author, you also launched a popular cleaning service.  Where do you find the time to do so many things?

I’m still unsure about that one lol I definitely always feel as though I have to stay busy. If I’m not busy with my babies, then I’m working on something constructive. I do my best not to live by the philosophy of “finding time”, but more so making time. We’re all on borrowed time, so I try to ensure that I am utilizing it to the best of my abilities.

What would be the most important thing you hope our readers take away from your story?

I would just like for them to know that it’s never too late to heal, to grow, to love or to be loved. I want them to know that they deserve to be heard. Even if they don’t think that anyone will listen. We are. And also, that, it’s okay to just be you. To walk in your truth, unpack the things and people that have hurt you and to live versus just existing.

Do you have any guidance you would like to share for aspiring writers?

Just do it! Do it afraid. Do it unprepared. Do it without hesitation and don’t overthink it. Educate yourself through the process and above all, keep a reminder in the forefront of your mind, on WHY you started. Everything else will fall into place.