Willow Shields: An Inspirational Q&A Series

Today I’m continuing my interview series with the ever so inspiring, Willow Shields. I got to know Willow when I was on Dancing With the Stars with her that season. I’m sure most of you remember her from The Hunger Games, being her adorable self playing Primrose Everdeen. I remember meeting her for the first time. There was just a spark about her. She was driven, motivated (not just to learn her dance routines each week) and already extremely successful at just 14 years old. Through our journey on DWTS together, I got to really know her and watch her grow as a dancer, and also a person. We spent lots of time laughing together and stayed in touch post our dancing days. But what had really inspired me has been watching and following Willow’s journey in life, inspiring others, specifically women all around the world. Just take a look at her Instagram for a glimpse into her life… you won’t regret it 🙂

What are your morning rituals?
Stretching, yoga and/or meditation. Coffee and smoothie. Then, if I am not working, I try and spend some time each morning reading and writing.

When you think of the word “successful who is the first person that comes to your mind?
My mother. She is such a successful, beautiful human being. She taught me so many things, including how to fall in love with literature and story, which is what I think, drew me to acting. She exudes success and is the epitome of girl power in my mind.

What is your favorite book?
Milk and Honey by Rupi Kaur. I recently started reading many more poetry books and this one is full of so much creativity, emotion, beautiful writing, and drawings.

What would you tell your 10 year old self?
To never underestimate where you would be in a single year or 5 years down the road. I would tell myself to gather strength in knowing that everything that happens in my life I can learn from and grow.

Do you have a quote you live your life by or think of often?
The worst enemy to creativity is self doubt- Sylvia Plath

What do you believe is true, even if you can’t prove it?
I can’t prove it, but I believe in magic. To me acting or art, in any form, is magical. When I was little I used to say I wanted to be a fairy when I grew up, living in a magical world… I kind of feel like I’m doing that by being an actor and artist.

What inspires you?
Women supporting one another, especially young women. There is nothing more inspiring to me than seeing strong, beautifully unique women lifting up and supporting other women in their lives. I was lucky enough to grow up being very close to my mother, twin sister, grandmother, and great grandmother, all supportive amazing women. This is my lucky foundation. From that basis, I try to build those relationships with other women, continually building that community around me.