Soleil Ritchie
Tell us a little bit about yourself
Hellooo, I'm Soleil! My name means sunshine in french, and I am 22 years old. I am an avid music listener and won't hesitate to give you music recommendations whether you ask for it or not. Like the next guy, I love traveling and going to other places; it makes me feel rich and content. I am a passionate and motivated person (sometimes too passionate!). I live and breathe for my friends, and I love the ocean. If I could have one (or two ) soundtrack for my life, it would be This Must Be The Place by Talking Heads or Southern Sun by Boy & Bear.
What is something powerful you believe?
Kindness. I truly believe in the power of being kind. I think the way we perceive ourselves and project ourselves to others is very powerful and has a significant role in how you live your life. I also believe in the power of music, I honestly think it can heal anything and affect your mood so much.
What did you last relationship teach you about yourself?
My last relationship taught me how to be amiable, considerate, and how to be more self-assured. I am so grateful to have had a six-year relationship with my best friend. Although we are on different paths now, he has been the best thing to have happened in the last decade.
How have you learned to love your body? Do you have any tips to share?
I think I am still on the way to fully accepting my body. As I have gotten older, I have a different appreciation and newfound respect for my body. However, if I am honest, there are days where I fucking love myself and days where I do not. I think the biggest thing I have learned is that it is more in my head. My mum gave me some perspective the other day, "others do not look, think, or critique your body, as often as you do." So that would be my tip, worry less, and celebrate (your body) more.
What does self love and care mean to you?
Self-love means being kind to myself. I am always cautious of the inner thoughts I say to myself. Every day at a specific time for 1-2 minutes (it may or may not be 11:11), I always tell myself, "I am wealthy, healthy, and experienced." I never miss this time to say to myself that. I make sure I phrase it as "I am" not "I want to be" because it sets the tone, and I believe I am those things. For example, I may not be wealthy financially, but I am wealthy in other aspects of my life.
If you could give your younger self any advice, what would you say to her?
It's weird I have been reflecting on 15 and 16-year-old Soleil because I have come to appreciate much more now the free-spirited girl I was. I often miss that girl who didn't care too much. The advice I would give is, “Enjoy your teenage years. Keep being weird. You are exactly where you need to be, and these are some of the best years of your life.”
A challenge you have overcome and how did you manage it?
I think my most recent challenge has been my break-up. I am still managing it, but I am so thankful to have open communication with my ex. The hardest part for me is not feeling guilt. It was a matter of being the right person but the wrong time. I am managing it by relying on my friends and enjoying going out with them. I am so grateful for my friends stepping up and being there for me (and him). I am taking this time to be a better version of myself and know the independent Soleil.
Something that made you smile recently…
My friend Tori made me smile recently. We had a nice two-hour facetime, which left me feeling so full and happy. I am so incredibly blessed for the quality of friendships I have in my life. All my friends (especially when we are drinking), are some of the funniest, most down to earth people I know. I am so grateful to have friends where I can laugh until my stomach hurts. Also, TikTok is always a good time!