Meet Taylore Gills: Writer, Blogger

We had the good fortune of connecting with Taylore Gills and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Taylore, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My thought process behind starting my own business has been nothing short of interesting. When I stepped out to write my first blog post, I did not expect to write more than one. My first post was about my relationship with my father and how I’ve dealt with it through the years. I felt like someone needed to hear my story, so I was just going to post that one and then continue on with my life. However, I saw the positive responses it received and realized that there were many others who could relate to my story. To my surprise, people began to inquire about when I was going to post again.

Before I knew it, I had written three more posts, and it turned into something I would have never imagined. Building Talks With Taylore has included many moments of sucking up my fears and posting my thoughts to encourage others. When sharing your personal experiences, you may feel as though what you have to say will be considered insignificant and that your story will just be swept under the rug. In reality though, you never know who you are impacting. That is what has brought me this far-trusting that what’s within me is blessing someone else, no matter who that someone is.

I’ve also had to remember that Talks With Taylore is so much bigger than me. It’s not just about the blog posts, the Instagram page aesthetic, or how many of my friends repost me. It’s about inspiring my audience. My heart’s desire is that every reader feels God’s peace by the time they leave my page.

It’s easy for me to overthink sometimes, so I often have to force myself to get out of my head and just do it. I have learned through experience that growth comes from stepping outside my comfort zone. Starting my own blog required me to feel the fear and do it anyway.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I present my artistry and creativity through my writing.

What makes Talks With Taylore unique is that each blog post is inspired by my very own personal life experiences–the good and not so good. I dig deep and allow myself to become vulnerable and transparent so that my stories can help someone else. I desire for everyone to leave my site feeling inspired to become a better version of themselves.

The last blog post I wrote, which is one of my favorites, was about appreciating the family and friends we’ve been blessed with. I posted it in honor of two of my late family members–my grandfather and my cousin. After posting, two of my friends specifically reached out to me and revealed that my post brought them to tears. They resonated with my story and were encouraged to love on those closest to them like never before. I don’t necessarily aspire to bring people to tears when I write, but moments like those inspire me to keep going. Seeing how people are impacted by what I step out on boldness to write, makes me proud of myself, and I’m honored that my words make a positive difference.

Owning a blog is certainly not easy, especially at this point in my life. I’m a rising senior at Spelman College, and there are a plethora of concerns and responsibilities on my plate. Occasionally, finding the inspiration to write is a struggle; and some-times, I’m so swamped in schoolwork that finding time to write is challenging. There have even been times when I’ve discredited my gift with negative self-talk; but thankfully, I’ve always managed to redirect my thoughts through prayer and by reminding myself of my value.

So much physical and emotional strain can come with owning a business. Even though it hasn’t been easy, I must and will keep going. Great things take time, consistency, and dedication. I overcome every challenge and negative thought I face by remembering who I am and Whose I am. That does the trick every time. Nobody can come against you when you know how meaningful you are!

Through everything, one of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of being confident in what I post. You have to be proud of yourself and your art before anyone else will. Being your own cheerleader is a must! Whether I’m posting a blog or posting something encouraging on Instagram, I have to feel strongly about what I’m putting out there beforehand. Then, I have reached a level of confidence in myself and my art that no one can take away. I find strength in my community; learning the art of leaning on your God given family and friends for pep talks and venting sessions will assist in staying sane through your building process.

I want the world to know that this is just the beginning for Talks With Taylore. One day soon, it will be more than a blog; it will be a multifaceted brand that will have a global impact. I’m very excited about what the future has in store. I’m committed to fulfilling purpose by using my influence and my gifts and talents to make the world a better place.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I take brunch seriously, so BQE Restaurant & Lounge would be at the top of the list. Their shrimp and grits are absolutely amazing, and it’s always a good time!

For sightseeing, I would make sure they experienced the Atlanta University Center (AUC). The beautiful campuses and rich history found between the colleges are one-of-a-kind. There’s nothing like the AUC.

You can’t have Atlanta without chicken wings, so I’d have to take them to one of my favorite spots in the area, BTJ Wings. It’s right next to the AUC, so I used to spend a lot of my time there with friends. Great times for sure!

I love nature walks, so I’d highly suggest visiting Piedmont Park and the Botanical Gardens. The beautiful flowers at the Botanical Gardens are absolutely breathtaking.

On a Monday night, I’m attending The Living Room (TLR) at Buckhead Church, where hundreds of college students gather weekly for worship and community. I met so many of my closest friends there, and TLR really made my college experience 1,000 times better!

For ice cream lovers, Jeni’s is an absolute must. Their Gooey Butter Cake flavor never disappoints!

For a late night dinner, we would definitely spend a couple of hours at the famous Waffle House! I always enjoy Waffle House waffles because they are always so satisfying. Plus, in my experience, some of the best memories are made at Waffle House restaurants..

These are just a few of my favorite spots in the city. Atlanta will definitely keep you busy!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My shoutout is dedicated to everyone in my corner. My family has encouraged and supported me to no end, and I am most grateful for that! The day I dropped my blog, I was so anxious and nervous about how it would be received by my audience, but my mom was right there affirming me even after I posted it. My family has been everything I’ve needed them to be throughout my life. They’re always cheering me on and I could not be more thankful for them.

My best friends also deserve a shoutout from me! From the moment I share an idea about my next steps in life with them, they are so encouraging. Whenever I step outside of my comfort zone to follow purpose, they pray, encourage me, and check in on me consistently. I’m not sure where the blog would be without their pep talks and love.

The loudest shoutout to God! Everything I do is a faith move–just trusting that God is with me everywhere He’s calling me to.

Website: Www.TalksWithTaylore.com

Instagram: Www.Instagram.com/TalksWithTaylore

Other: Email: GillsTaylore@gmail.com

Image Credits
Jasmine McCaskill Amari Arrindell