It’s 2021 and we are kissing 2020 goodbye! A new month means a new contributor of the month, so meet Sydney Blackmore our first covergirl of 2021. Sydney has been with us since August and you’ve probably read her work on the struggles of being an ambitious woman, some career pieces and her latest reflecting on 2020 and looking forward in 2021. You know the drill, Sydney answered some questions for us so you can get to know her a little better. So without further ado Sydney will take it from here.
Name or nickname if you have one:
I’m Sydney but people call me Syd
Zodiac sign:
Pisces
Where do you live and what do you do?
I currently live in Ottawa, Ontario where I am completing my 3L year at the Faculty of Law at the University of Ottawa.
What makes you feel pretty and smart/what does it mean to you?
Feeling pretty to me signifies being authentically and unapologetically myself. I feel most confident when I am happy and being honest with myself and with those around me. However, when I am not exactly feeling my “best” self, a pair of hoops and heels acts as a good pick me up trick!
Being smart to me signifies being open minded, non judgmental, empathetic and an active listener. Challenging yourself in light of adversity and growing outside of your comfort zone. I also believe that there is power in knowing when to ask for help and pride in believing in yourself.
One piece of advice to your younger self:
Be patient. Stop stressing and worrying about tomorrow, about where you will be in 5 or 10+ years. Everything will happen just as it should. Learn to be present and to live in the moment. Life is not just about the destination, it’s about the journey and the experiences and relationships you build along the way. Thus, see every opportunity not as a final destination but as experience and opportunity to learn something new.
One of my greatest strengths is that I love and care deeply. What this I also tend to take things personally. Thus, in not setting any expectations or time limits for you to reach a certain goal or stage in your life, you will no longer be disappointed.
Who would you say is your biggest role model or icon (fashion, career, fitness, personal or otherwise):
My mom is my biggest role model and my best friend. She is the most influential and inspiring woman in my life who has taught me unconditional love, to be kind in light of the darkness, to always show empathy, to practice forgiveness and to always believe in myself and to never give up.
What you’re reading/watching/listening to:
To be honest, I do so much reading with school that it has taken away any interest I have in reading for pleasure. With that being said, I am reading “Hyper Focus” by Chris Bailey, which is a book about how to better manage your focus in light of distractions and how to efficiently and effectively focus your time in completing tasks in accordance to your varying levels of focus.
I am finally getting around to watching some classic movies I have been putting off for years. Next on my list to watch is Bridges of Madison Country, The Breakfast Club and The Way We Were.
I’ve been listening to a lot of Mitchell Tenpenny and Morgan Wallen these days. I am really looking forward to the release of Morgan Wallen’s new album in early January!
Favourite thing in your closet right now?
I will have to say my Wilfred Free Heinen Sweater (link it: https://www.aritzia.com/en/sale?lastViewed=85#qv) It’s so versatile! I usually wear it under a blazer or with a pair of leather leggings with boots, but I also wear it with joggers when I’m spending the day at home.
If your life was a movie what would it be called?
If my life was a movie it would be called “The Working Girl”. I am always juggling a few jobs and thrive in a busy lifestyle, yet always ready to jet off to the next adventure!
Next place you hope to travel to (near or far)?
Greece! The beautiful Greek islands are an absolute head turner known for its romantic sunsets and panoramic views of the cliffs and the sea. It would be amazing to spend some time there roaming the islands, dressing up in all white, and exploring all the pretty and unique local spots.
Best word to describe you and why?
Dreamer. I suppose this has something to do with the fact that I am a pisces, but I do love to dream—sometimes to escape reality but often to develop new ideas and goals. When you dream big, stay focused and work hard, you can make anything happen!
What is your fitness or wellness routine?
Sometimes with school it can be challenging to maintain consistency in my fitness and wellness routine; however, I try to maintain an active schedule by squeezing in a workout at least 4 times a week and aiming for a 7 hour sleep. I am someone who thrives on routine and I feel most productive waking up at 6 am and completing my to-do list in the morning.
What is your favorite thing to write about?
I really enjoy writing about travel, lifestyle and business.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Anything with peanut butter!
Favourite quote:
I really think a champion is defined not by their wins but by how they can recover when they fall – Serena Williams
What is your favourite piece you’ve written for PSCO?
My favourite piece I’ve written for PSCO is my debut article about the struggles of ambitious women.
Where can people find you online? What is your handle?
IG: @sydblackmore
If you have more questions for Sydney as always, feel free to ask them in the comments below.
