I’ll be honest with you—I used to think structure was basically just a nice way of saying “boring routine” or “being super rigid in life.” You know, the kind of life where you eat the same breakfast every day, work out at 6:00 AM sharp, & have your entire week planned down to which sock you’ll wear on Wednesday. But then life happened. Kids, work, relationships, bills, laundry piles that seem to multiply on their own (whew chile, the mountain I seem to have every week since a certain daddy-daughter duo must be modeling clothes several times a day)—basically, the circus of adulthood. And I realized something: structure isn’t about restricting yourself, it’s about freeing yourself. And no, I’m not about to tell you to color-code your closet (unless you want to, in which case—please come do mine because I just don’t have the time or energy to do it anymore #neatfreak ). What I’m talking about is building a rhythm that keeps you from feeling like you’re juggling flaming swords while riding a unicycle. Because let’s face it, we’re already doing enough. ⸻ Why Structure Feels Scary 😱 If you’re anything like me, the word “structure” makes you think of spreadsheets, rigid schedules, & zero room for Netflix binges or spontaneous coffee runs with a friend. It feels like the fun police is moving in, ready to write you a ticket for not sticking to your plan. But here’s the twist: structure doesn’t take away your freedom—it gives you the freedom to enjoy life without the guilt of everything else falling apart. ⸻ My “Flexible Structure Routine” Formula 👩🏽‍🔬 Here’s what’s been working for me (& yes, it’s still a work in progress because hello, life stays lifin’): 1. Pick Your Non-Negotiables These are the anchors of your day—the things you know keep you grounded. For me, that’s devotionals in the morning, journaling in the evening, & making sure I actually eat while I’m working (because apparently I zone too far out & coffee isn’t a meal, who knew?). You deserve to have certain things be sacred & necessary to be your best self! 2. Use the 80/20 Rule Structure 80% of your day around what needs to get done, & leave 20% open for life to happen. Because life will happen. Sometimes that “life” looks like traffic jams, surprise school projects, or realizing you forgot to defrost the chicken. Leave some cushion between your obligations so you have time to decompress, transition, or just breathe. 3. Plan Your Flex Time Yes, you read that right—plan your flexibility. Maybe that means leaving an open hour in your calendar a couple times a week. Sometimes you’ll use it to catch up on chores, sometimes you’ll use it to binge a show guilt-free, & sometimes you’ll just stare at the wall in silence (highly recommend). Make it worth your while & even use it as a reward for accomplishing a task. Regardless, don’t stay on go mode 24/7. 4. Stop Aiming for Perfect Spoiler: no one has their structure 100% together. Even the friend who swears she wakes up at 4:30 AM to meditate & juice celery has days where she’s crying in the car eating drive-thru fries. The point isn’t perfection—it’s finding something that works for you . Remember: na'y one of us is Jesus so… (excuse my Southern-ness). ⸻ How It Feels in Real Life 🙂‍↔️ Life may be lifin', but it won't break us! Since giving myself permission to create a structure that bends, I feel lighter. I don’t spend my days drowning in to-do lists, nor do I feel like my life is chaos on wheels. It’s somewhere in between—a little messy, a little organized, & very much mine. And honestly, that’s the sweet spot. ⸻ Your Turn 🫵🏽 So here’s my challenge for you: think about one area of your life that could use some gentle structure. Start small. Maybe it’s setting a bedtime (yes, even for grown-ups), doing a Sunday reset, or blocking out 15 minutes for something that actually recharges you. Because structure doesn’t mean you’re stuck—it means you have a solid base to land on when life throws you curveballs. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll still have enough wiggle room for a spontaneous trip to get a sweet potato pie from Bojangle’s. ⸻ ✨ Here’s to finding the balance between structured & spontaneous—the adulting version of having your cake & eating it too.

You know how everyone talks about “having a morning routine?” For the longest time, I rolled my eyes at that. Between work, family, and trying to keep life from completely spiraling, the last thing I thought I needed was another to-do list before 7 a.m. (yes, I’m an early riser 🥱). But then I realized—I didn’t need a routine. What I really needed was a ritual. Something sacred. Something that felt like mine. Something that was going to shift my mind from sweet dreams to locked in almost immediately. That’s how my mornings slowly shifted into what I now call my sacred mornings. I decided in l Sacred Mornings to Begin Serene Days 2023 that I needed a game changer & jumped head first into something I never miss out on. Honey, I used to snooze that alarm until the VERY LAST minute I could spare to stay tucked into the warm covers before I risked being late for work. Then I’d be flying around the room with the grumps, groaning about having to get up.  Straight up “don’t talk to me, don’t look at me, don’t think about me” mode. Side note: this is where my silence for the first hour rule emerged (which still stands cuz I just can’t before the sun wakes up). Now, I don’t jump out of bed & run into the day anymore. I give myself permission to move slowly. First thing I do is grab my phone…not to check texts/emails/social media, but to start my devotionals. Not hours, just enough to reconnect with God & center my heart. I follow that up with 5 minutes of meditation to clear my mind. Those quiet moments have become the anchor to my whole day. After that, I roll out my yoga mat. I’m not doing an intense workout here—it’s just some simple stretches, a way to wake up my body gently. When you get older, you have to stretch waaaaaaay more than before. A few days a week, I’ll follow that up with a real workout, but I never force it. Some mornings, stretching & breathing are exactly enough cuz Pilates will kick yo 🍑! Before I turn my computer on to start working, I sip water—because somehow that feels like a reset button. Actually the “experts” say that drinking water does help your body to restart, so may as well add it in before I start eating up everything in sight. This ritual isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence. About reminding myself that I don’t have to start my day in a rush or pour from an empty cup. I feel like I stay in fast forward 90% of the time, but it’s good to remind myself that life is a marathon, not a sprint. When I move through this flow—meditation, devotionals, stretching, water, movement—I show up to work & life calmer, clearer, & way more grounded. And here’s the thing: I don’t do it to be “productive.” I do it because it’s sacred. Because it reminds me who I am before the emails, the meetings, & the noise. More importantly, it reminds me Whose I am & what’s really important. If you’ve been feeling like your mornings slip away before you even take a breath, maybe it’s time to claim them back—not with a strict routine, but with a sacred ritual that feels like yours. Nobody’s ritual will look the same because none of us are the same. The more personal, the more effective! Because busy as we are, we still deserve mornings that nourish us.

🍂 Why Fall Can Feel Like a Lot Friend, let’s be honest: fall can feel like a juggling act. Between school drop-offs, business deadlines, family gatherings, & the never-ending holiday prep, it’s easy to slip into burnout mode before the pumpkin spice lattes even cool down. But here’s the thing: fall doesn’t have to be about pushing harder. It can be about slowing down , getting intentional, & creating rhythms that work for you—not against you. That’s why I want to share how to build an intentional fall strategy—one that feels grounded, life-giving, & actually doable. Try these on for size: 1. 🍁 Choose Intentions, Not Overstuffed Goals Instead of writing a mile-long to-do list, think of fall as a chance to anchor into 2–3 soul-centered themes. ✨ Examples: • “More presence with my family.” • “Simplify my work routine.” • “Protect my energy & rest.” This becomes your north star. Everything you commit to either supports it—or it’s a gentle no. 2. 🌅 Ease into Cozy Fall Routines Forget perfection—let’s talk about tiny, cozy rituals that reset your energy: • A 10-minute morning stretch while the air is still crisp. • Writing 3 lines of gratitude while sipping your coffee. • Lighting a fall candle before diving into emails. The magic isn’t in doing more—it’s in creating rhythms that feel nurturing. 3. 📅 Batch the Busy Work One of the quickest ways to burn out in fall? Trying to do all the things every single day. Here’s the hack: batch your tasks. • Dedicate a block of time to meal planning for the week. • Schedule a content day if you run a business (photos, posts, emails). • Choose one “errand day” instead of scattering trips all week. This gives you more brain space & frees you up to enjoy the season. 4. 🕯️ Create a Cozy Atmosphere for Yourself Fall is meant to feel warm, not rushed. Something as simple as switching out your mug, adding a blanket to your chair, or keeping a playlist of calm autumn vibes nearby can help you reset. Little cues remind your body: we’re safe, we’re cozy, we don’t need to sprint. 5. 🙅🏽‍♀️ Protect Your “No” Here’s a truth we don’t hear enough: “no” is a full sentence. You don’t have to sign up for every fall festival, host every gathering, or volunteer for every school event. Instead, protect your “yeses” for what truly matters to you & your family. 6. ✨ Track What Actually Matters This isn’t about checklists—it’s about noticing how you feel. Try ending the week with these three questions: 1. Did I feel calmer or more rushed? 2. Where did I feel the most present? 3. What do I want more of next week? That’s how you know your fall strategy is working—not by how many boxes you check, but by how supported you feel. Prioritize your self-care throughout the fall 💛 Final Thoughts Sis, you don’t need to hustle through fall just to collapse in December. You can create an intentional fall strategy that gives you breathing room, joy, & more connection to what really matters. So light the candle. Say no where you need to. Choose cozy rhythms over chaos. This fall is yours to savor.

We've all been there, right? You've got your planner out, your to-do list is a work of art, & you're feeling on top of the world. Y'all master list-makers know what I'm talking about! Your goals are perfectly aligned, & you're ready to conquer the week, never planning for the unexpected. Then, bam! The universe throws a wrench in your perfect little plan. The unexpected happens—a sick kid, a sudden work crisis, or maybe you just wake up feeling totally drained. Major side-eye loading... It's so easy to feel like a failure when this happens. You might look at your perfectly organized plan & feel frustrated that you couldn't stick to it. But here's a thought: what if the plan was never meant to be a rigid blueprint, but more like a compass? A compass gives you direction, but it doesn't map out every single bump or detour on the journey. It's something I'm learning to come to terms with & release some of the control I strive to have over my life. Being "aligned" doesn't mean being perfect. It means your actions, even the small, imperfect ones, are still moving you in the direction of your goals. Maybe you didn't finish that huge project, but you managed to send one important email. Maybe you didn't get to the gym, but you took a walk around the block. That’s not a failure—that's staying aligned. Some progress is better than no progress! Being thrown off of my schedule/checklist can cause my whole being to go down the toilet. Anxiety immediately goes to 1000% & the attitude can go to rude real quick because of the pressure of being a perfectionist. Releasing control can be scary, but it's super necessary to getting through life. Everything won't go as planned every time. So, next time life throws you a curveball, don't ditch the plan completely. Adjust it. Be flexible. Celebrate the small wins & give yourself some grace. Remember, the goal isn't to be a perfect planner; it's to keep moving forward, even when the path (& your planner) is a little messy. Alignment isn't always pretty What's a time your plan went sideways & you had to adjust? Share in the comments!

Can we talk about how wild this year has been? One minute we were making vision boards & sipping spiked hot chocolate in January, & now suddenly…it’s August. AUGUST! Where did the time go? I swear I blinked & it went from Memorial Day to August 1st! If you’re anything like me, you’ve been juggling work deadlines, family needs, that “just for me” project you promised yourself you’d start (still counts if it’s on the to-do list, right?), & about 6,000 random life things in between. Somewhere along the way, those beautiful goals you set back in January may have gotten buried under everyday life. Here’s the good news: August is the perfect time to press pause, take a deep breath, & realign. Embrace the journey through your August mid-year goal reset Why is it the perfect time for an August mid-year goal reset? 1. You’ve got clarity now that you didn’t have in January. Back at the start of the year, we were all riding on that New Year’s energy. If you’re like me, you swore you were gonna live a healthier, stress-free, financially sound, outside on a regular basis life, but how long did those plans really last? Now, after living through seven months of reality checks, we know what’s working…& what’s just not worth the stress (like making too many goals for 1 person to do in 12 months). 2. Summer slowdown = mental reset. Even if life is still busy, the summer vibe has a way of slowing things down a bit. The days are longer, the evenings feel softer, & it’s easier to imagine new routines or revisit old dreams with a calmer mind, especially when you don’t have to worry about checking homework & making sure kids are here, there, & everywhere. Not to mention, the beautiful weather just does something positive to the soul. 3. You can still finish the year strong. August is your “sweet spot” — enough time to make meaningful progress, but not so much time that you procrastinate (139 days, 20 weeks, 4.5 months, or however you prefer to view your deadline…can y’all tell I work better under pressure???). A few intentional shifts now could have you looking back in December like, “Wow, I really did that.” And I SHALL! So here’s your gentle nudge: Pour yourself a cup of coffee (or whatever your happy drink is, *cough Stella Rosa), grab your journal, & ask yourself: What’s still important to me right now? What can I release without guilt? What small, doable action can I take this week toward my top goal? My newfound motivation 2 weeks ago still hasn’t worn off. There hasn’t been a day that I haven’t done something for at least one of my businesses. Seems so long ago that I felt that spark in Mexico, but in less than 2 weeks I’ve: Took & passed my student loan mentorship test, Came up with a business name, Applied for the LLC, Purchased a phone line, Designed 3 logos, Started a website, Written the mission & vision statements, Composed affirmations for a journal collab I’m doing with a dope chick I met in Atlanta, Finished reading 3 books, Created social media content, Hosted a H.E.R.E. Unfiltered live session, Got the kids ready to start school this week, Had IDK how many meetings… & somehow was still able to handle my usual routine of working full-time, wifing, mothering, & everything else in between. Side note: no wonder I’m tired AF #sheesh You don’t need a Monday or a new month to start over — but August sure feels like a great invitation to do just that. You just have to know where that invitation leads. Let’s realign, re-focus, & finish this year feeling proud of ourselves. We’ve got this!

Last weekend was an adventure, a whole vibe, & something that was long overdue. I did 2 things: something new & something old. #1 : I hopped on a plane to Cancun solo to meet people I’d never met (& yes I was cringing before I met the first person 😬). We’ll get into that a bit later. And #2 : I pressed pause on almost everything. ⏸️ I traded my to-do list for turquoise waves & stepped away from my planner—just for a moment—to realign with my purpose. Now y’all know I take my journal & planner everywhere, so leaving my planner at home meant I was all in for this new adventure. Turns out, it was necessary for a busy woman’s reset routine. I spent the weekend in beautiful Cancún for mentorship, masterminding, & momentum to help guide me down the right path for my next endeavor & let me tell you: it wasn’t just a getaway, it was a reset…a reset I desperately needed! A few glimpses of a busy woman resetting The Power of Stepping Away ✌🏽 As busy women, we wear many hats—caregiver, professional, friend, visionary. And often, we equate rest with falling behind. But Cancún reminded me that stepping back can actually propel us forward. The "I'll sleep when I'm dead" mentality is real (& real stupid). In the quiet moments between masterminding & margaritas, I had the space to reflect on my goals, my energy, & what truly matters. Sometimes the most productive thing we can do is breathe ! What the Mastermind Sparked for My Business 🧨 Mentorship in Mexico wasn’t just about business—it was about alignment, clarity, & stepping fully into your purpose. Surrounded by powerhouse women & 1 brave man doing impactful work, I felt my fire reignite. There’s just something about being around people who are like-minded but also have so much you can learn from. The group was EVERYTHING ! I left with more than notes & strategies—I left with a renewed mindset. I don’t think I’ve been to a business event that sent me straight to my laptop, fully charged & having to make myself turn down. In just 8 hours of receiving so many gems over 3 days, I felt a complete shift. I came back deeply motivated, focused, & clear about how to serve with even more intention through Intentionally Evolve & my new baby that I’m birthing in the near future. I have not stopped working or run out of mental steam since Friday. Business-wise, I got poured into by every person in that group. I was blessed with so much from those 3 days. Whew, the things I walked away with were right on time & has kept me deep in reflection. What the Mastermind Sparked for My Life in General 🧨 The weekend vibes ran deeper than just business; they put my entire being in perspective. It has me evaluating every person, place, & thing around me. A shift comes when you begin to question whether your relationships are transactional, one-sided, or mutually beneficial. If you don't have at least 1 person around that can help you level up in any capacity, it's time to do a relationship audit. There is some truth to the saying "you are the company you keep." Cancun forced me to embrace the power of traveling alone (which I found that I probably need to do at least quarterly for a few days so I can disconnect from the world to focus on business & rest). My alone time left me distraction-free, outside of connecting with some dope people, & gave me time be highly introspective. The beach or mountains always flip a switch in me. Pisces + Water = Heaven! This experience proved to me that I can enforce boundaries by telling people that I wasn’t accepting any calls/texts except from my husbae & kids & NOT FEEL GUILTY ABOUT IT. It was weird how I received way less calls & texts when I made it clear that I was unavailable. Not even paying attention to my phone was a breath of fresh air. I really only needed it to communicate with the group about meals. It showed me what’s possible when we stop surviving & start thriving; a whole other world. How I’m Resetting Now That I’m Back 🧘🏽‍♀️ Going home was bittersweet. I missed my family & my bed, but I also enjoyed not having to cook, not setting an alarm to get up, not having a jam-packed schedule, not having to clean, & having complete silence the majority of the weekend. I knew it was back to business when I touched down, but I was on such a high that none of it even mattered, especially after I realized I’d taken Tuesday off too. The mental reset I experienced left me with a few ideas to keep this energy flowing — & I’m committing to tweaking a few things so I can continue to thrive: ✨ 1. Morning Stillness Over Morning Scrolls Before the emails & chaos hit, I take 60-90 minutes to check in with God, stretch, & workout. The only reason I even touch my phone is to read my affirmations & devotionals. Now, I’m going to start simply sitting in silence for 5-10 minutes. Nobody & nothing is getting a thing out of me before I fill my cup. My mind needs nurturing before it starts pouring into others. ✍🏽 2. Journal to Clear the Mental Clutter I use my Intentional Journal every evening to process the day, release what’s heavy, & write anything that centers me. Nothing is changing with that. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, right? But I’ll be adding more mindfulness before writing. A few things I’m going to start meditating on before I write are: Where do I need to give myself more grace? What’s 1 thing I can do tomorrow to honor my peace? What would it look like to move through this week aligned? 🌱 3. Weekly Mini-Reset Every Sunday, I want to do a mini “reset ritual”: Block off time to just breathe Review my goals Plan 1 joy-filled activity for the week Figure out what kind of support I need so I can move closer to achieving my goals 🧠 4. Mindful Focus Hours I’m stopping glorifying busyness. You never know how tired you are until you take time to do a self-check-in. To hell with being “booked & busy.” That mentality is physically & mentally exhausting. Although I can’t cancel the majority of the things on my calendar this month, I can carve out 90-minute “focus blocks” where I work without distractions, followed by real breaks. No guilt. Just presence…with a hard stop at 90 minutes. 💞 5. Community Keeps Me Grounded Connecting with like-minded women (like the ladies who also attended the mastermind event) reminded me that you don’t have to do it all alone. It showed me how I’m not the only woman who carries an overflowing plate (this kind of buffet is no bueno). It showed me that it’s ok to be vulnerable & that there are safe spaces outside of my immediate circle. Most importantly, it reiterated the power of community. Whether it’s checking in with a sister-friend, joining a journaling session, or participating in an Intentionally Evolve challenge, community keeps me accountable & inspired, & I'm going to embrace the new communities I've been blessed with over the last year. The Busy Woman's Reset Routine Is Ongoing—But Worth It 💯 Resetting isn’t a one-time thing. It’s a practice. And the beautiful thing is—you don’t need a plane ticket to get started. You just need intention. If you’re feeling scattered, burned out, or just not yourself lately, I invite you to join me in hitting reset. Not to hustle harder, but to realign smarter. Because when a busy woman chooses balance, everything shifts. ✨ Your Turn: Grab your journal & use this prompt to reflect: “What would it look like for me to reset this week?” And if you need a tool to guide you back to yourself, explore our journals & planners. Intentionally Evolve collection . Here’s to balance, breakthroughs, & becoming!

Welcome to August, a time to reset Let’s be honest—July started off with a bang… & not the fireworks kind. For so many of us, the demands of life were loud, fast, & overwhelming. That’s why the July theme “From Overwhelmed to Organized — Planning for Peace” resonated deeply. We slowed down…well I did to plan but I was in fast forward physically & mentally most of the month. We assessed what truly mattered, & I’ve found that my top 2 are my family & creating a legacy. We gave ourselves permission to plan—not perfectly—but peacefully, which has made the hustle & bustle way less chaotic. Through journaling, weekly resets, & intentional scheduling, we created space to breathe again. But now? It’s time to build on that peace, & I’m kicking off the month amongst beauty: beautiful places, beautiful people, beautiful minds that will help me reset & head to the top. And I need all of these to get my mind right for a nonstop month for me. August brings its own set of challenges: 🎒 Back-to-school season (A gift & a curse: gift because the house will be quieter & food can stick around a bit longer; curse because shopping breaks my pockets & my kids’ schedules will only get busier.) 🎯 Mid-year goal realignment (Much needed & right on time. I’m determined to snatch these goals by the throat for the rest of 2025.) 💼 Work-life balance shifts (I definitely will need to rework this part out because I’m trying to step on necks for the rest of the year. These ideas can’t stay in my head any longer.) 🧘‍♀️ Mental & emotional check-ins (These will need to be prioritized, & I’ll need a few accountability partners to make sure go mode has some pauses in between…starting this weekend!) This month, we’re leaning into the theme: “Aligned & Intentional”—resetting our routines with mindfulness, reconnecting with our goals, & supporting each other in the process. We’ll focus on: ✅ Routines that actually work for your lifestyle ✅ Mindful goal setting without the hustle culture ✅ Journaling through transition periods ✅ Self-care check-ins for moms & busy women Let’s move through August with the same energy we built in July: rooted, reflective, & ready. I’m so excited to begin the next season of my life & to see you guys blossom in this season too! Stay tuned for live journaling sessions, blog tips, & tools to make your month feel aligned—without the burnout. We might even throw in a self-care & journaling challenge in the next couple of weeks.

Ah, the life of a woman with multiple responsibilities! It’s a beautiful chaos, isn’t it? Between juggling family, work, friends, hobbies, & the crucial self-care moments, it can feel like we are in a high-stakes circus act. But here’s the truth: planning like a boss lady is where the magic happens! So grab your favorite drink, settle in, & let’s explore strategies to manage our fabulously full lives...& look just as fabulous as we handle all of it! Embracing the Chaos 🤗 Life can be unpredictable. It often feels like I’m trying to direct a tornado of tasks while standing in its path. Instead of letting this whirlwind throw me off balance, I've learned to embrace the chaos. Mindset Shift #1: Shift your view of responsibilities from burdens to badges of honor. Each task reflects a part of your life that you value, from career ambitions to nurturing relationships. Celebrate that chaos! When we change our perspective, we unlock new possibilities. For instance, I used to dread my weekly grocery shopping. Me + too many people (especially strangers who want to hold convos) + throwing stuff in the cart that had no business being in there = a recipe for an expensive, annoying hour. Now, I see it as a chance to have some me time, turning a chore into time to pour into myself (while picking up snacks I have no intention of sharing with dem chirren of mine). Don’t get me wrong, having to put on clothes, drive (even if it’s just 1 mile to Walmart), & be around people still isn’t the most enjoyable thing for me. However, having that hour or so to be alone, headphones in, & taking my time browsing every aisle is still relaxing in a way. Prioritize Like a Pro 💪🏽 Let’s get real: not every task holds the same weight. Some need immediate attention, while others can wait. So, how do we effectively prioritize? Tip: Use a notebook or index cards to make a list of everything you need to do, categorizing into three groups: Must Do, Should Do, & Nice to Do. By visualizing your responsibilities, it becomes easier to focus on what truly matters. For example, during my busy weeks, I prioritize knocking out content for the following week over less pressing tasks like organizing my closet. Another tip: Choose no more than 3 tasks to complete per day. Setting a limit doesn’t leave much room for you to be overwhelmed. Only add the most important tasks, focus on completing those, & use the leftover time to do whatever, whether it’s crossing off another to-do or kicking your feet up to rest. Scheduling: Your Secret Weapon 🤫 A solid scheduling system is crucial. Whether you prefer a digital calendar or a classic planner, choose what resonates with you. Personally, I love color-coding my commitments in my phone calendars & keeping a written log in my Intentional Planner. It’s tough being the primary person who makes sure 4 kids, husbae, MIL, & my aunt all are where they’re supposed to be when they’re supposed to be. Add those schedules to my job, my business, & the nonprofit I’m involved in…well, then you understand why I need more than 1 way to hold it in the road! Mindset Shift #2: Your schedule isn’t a set of chains; it's a roadmap to a fulfilling life. Tip: Dedicate an hour each Sunday to plan your week ahead. Schedule time blocks for work, family, & even personal time. This can be a game changer for your stress levels. And it lessens the amount of planning you have to do each day. Future-you will thank you for this little investment of time! Don’t Forget Self-Care 🗓 Busy boss ladies, this is important: self-care should not take a back seat. In the frenzy of daily duties, it's easy to forget about your well-being. But self-care is essential! Mindset Shift #3: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Recharging yourself is a necessity. Tip: Schedule “me time” just like any other appointment. Set aside 30 minutes for reading, going for a walk, or enjoying a bubble bath each week. Regular self-care can improve mental health, so it’s important to not skimp on it. Delegate & Outsource 🫵🏾 Let’s talk about delegation. You don’t have to do everything alone. Pot, meet Kettle. Reaching out for help isn’t a sign of failure; it’s a sign of wisdom (something I have to learn to do more often)! Mindset Shift #4: Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. Tip: Identify tasks you can share with family, friends, or professionals. Maybe your partner can handle dinner one night a week, or a friend could help with carpooling. Delegating can improve productivity & lessen stress. Take that cape off sometimes, sis! #winwin Simplify, Simplify, Simplify 🤏🏾 In our quest to do it all, we often complicate our lives unnecessarily. Simplifying can lead to incredible freedom. Tip: Assess your routines & find opportunities to streamline. For example, meal-prepping on Sundays can cut down on daily cooking stress. A simplified wardrobe, like a capsule collection, can even reduce decision fatigue, allowing you to focus your energy elsewhere. Breaking up your cleaning & chore list per day helps to keep your house clean without feeling so overwhelmed. Celebrate Small Wins 🥳 Let's not overlook the power of celebration! Each small success deserves recognition, whether it’s finishing a task or completing a project. Mindset Shift #5: Celebrating can be simple yet uplifting. Tip: Create a "win jar" where you document your small victories & revisit them on tough days. This can boost your motivation & remind you of your achievements, no matter how small. Acknowledging small wins can increase your overall productivity & keep that fire lit under your feet. Finding Joy in the Journey 🕵🏽‍♀️ Finally, let’s remember why we do all the things we do. Life is meant to be enjoyed, so take time to savor the little moments. Tip: Start a daily journal to note one thing you’re grateful for. It will remind you that happiness can be found in the simplest things, helping to balance the chaos with joy. Helloooo, Intentional Journals with gratitude sections… A cozy spot for relaxation after a busy day Plan Like a Boss Wrap-Up So there you have it, fellow boss ladies! It's all about embracing your full life & finding strategies that work for you. With these mindset shifts & practical tips, you can plan efficiently while still enjoying the ride. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey! Now, go out there & tackle your life like the amazing woman you are. You've got this! 🌟 With a little planning, a sprinkle of self-care, & a whole lot of love, we can navigate our busy lives effortlessly. Let's continue supporting each other as we conquer all the things!

Let’s be real: by Friday, my brain is like 47 browser tabs open at once—half frozen, a few playing music, & one yelling “don’t forget the laundry!” Honey, when you’re making sure meals are cooked (most days), children making it to work & practice on time, fussing at the Mr. to slow down, keeping up with Intentionally Evolve, & working full-time in mental health, you start reaching for the nearest life preserver to stay a little afloat. That’s why I created a weekly reset routine that helps me feel like I’m in control (or at least pretending well enough 😉). Every Sunday, I have this routine that makes me feel like I’m ready for whatever. And it goes a lil somethin' like dis... Act 1: The Prep I grab my planner, journal, & white boards (if you know, you know, but if you don’t, I’ll explain below) & write until my hand hurts. Let me break this down a little: The White Boards: I snatched this gem a few years ago from a podcaster. One white board is a blank calendar. I record whatever I did that day for self-care. And on the rare occasions I find that I did nothing, I know I need to find something before climbing onto that pillowtop. The other white board is blank (temporarily). I write the affirmation for the following day at the top. The bottom half is for my Plan A & Plan B. Plan A is no more than 3 things I’ll strive to do the next day. Plan B is other things I may find important but won’t press myself to overdo it. Then that goes on the dresser where I can see it as soon as I roll out of bed. Planning: I grab my planner (Intentionally Evolve, of course), my phone, & my goal planner. I jot down everything that I’m supposed to do the next day in my planner. I set gentle goals (like drinking water on purpose), plug in appointments, & schedule guilt-free self-care. I make sure all alerts are set in my phone. And Ms. Thang aka the goal planner is put to work: tracking progress, pivoting, & setting the next steps. Journaling: The Piece De Resistance, Soulful Serenity, gets busted wide open, & my pen goes to work. I start by journaling the good, the messy, & the “did-I-really-send-that-text?” moments from the day. No pressure—just a brain dump with heart (cuz I actually use a piece of my heart to write prayers & gratitude there too). Can’t go to bed with heavy head. Plus it’s a must to-do before beginning a new week! Act 2: The Mood After all the preliminary stuff is taken care of, it’s wind down time! I grab some pjs & head into the bathroom. I hit the lights, pop a shower steamer in, & light candles like I’m about to cast a productivity spell. ✨ The hot water gets turned up, & I take time to hide from the family, uninterrupted, to exfoliate & breathe. That white tea & peach Dove bodywash followed by some Ashanti Naturals Whipped Shea Butter & Nivea Peach Blossom lotion is a beast! As if it wasn’t obvious, ya girl’s summer scent is peach.🍑 The Final Act: Power Down I have to hype myself up to go to sleep, so either I break out the yoga mat or climb up on the bed to stretch. After a long day of sitting (yes it can be physically tiring too), I need to stretch. Once I’m under the covers, I read my Bible passages for the day, & slowly (most nights unfortunately) drift off the sleep. Now, all of that can seem like Team Too Much, but when you always seem to be powered on, you have to find what works for you to relax. Here’s the magic: I walk away feeling grounded, less chaotic, & mildly prepared for Monday. I might still have my scarf on with my cow print robe when it’s time to punch the clock, but I glide in with peace being the motive. The Pisces can’t come out of me every day choosing violence. This isn’t about having a Pinterest-perfect life—it’s about making space to breathe, reflect, & remind myself I’m doing okay. After all, if you don’t remind yourself, who’s going to remind you to take care of YOU? If your weeks feel like a blur, I dare you to try a reset. Journals, planners, & a dash of humor might be just what your soul (& schedule) needs.

Let’s be real—life doesn’t always go as planned. One moment you’re moving forward with a clear vision, & the next, you're staring down a completely different reality. Whether it’s a personal setback, a sudden change in plans, or a season that feels heavier than expected, navigating life’s challenges requires more than just pushing through—it calls for emotional honesty & intentional grace. Being a creature of habit, when life throws a curveball, it can go in one of two ways for me: either I shake it off with a "who cares" attitude, or I kirk out & go off the deep end stressing. Both of these have its pros & cons. Shaking it off: On one hand, not sweating the change gave me more of an easygoing vibe. I don't give it any energy...great! On the other, not caring can come off negatively. Everyone cares about something, & your reaction can determine how a person deals with you from that point on. Crashing out: Some may think there's nothing positive about crashing out. However, release is needed by EVERYONE. We're human & not immune to having emotions, so we have to express them or disaster strikes (i.e. crashing out). It's part of being a healthy person. When it's not released, you end up either internally destroying yourself or bottling it up & the buildup explodes on someone who didn't deserve the brunt of all of your frustrations. When it comes to navigating life's challenges, you have to move strategically. Not only that: practice makes perfect. A few pointers on navigating life's changes are: The first step? Breathe & feel.  Don’t rush to “fix” everything or force a new plan. Give yourself permission to sit with your emotions. Whether it’s frustration, disappointment, confusion, or grief—acknowledge it. Processing what you feel helps you avoid emotional burnout & gives you clarity for your next move. For the most part, I take my time when I need to make a decision, especially if it can have a negative impact. I'm pretty good at staying away from being impulsive. The only rare times I'm impulsive is when it comes to my family's safety & well-being. You think about doing either, & Mocha Monster comes out to play HARD. HARD meaning "when they go low, I got the devil sitting on my shoulders in his dank basement in the deepest pits of Hell" low. I know how lethal my mouth can be, so when that other side of me comes out, you've gone waaaaaaay too far for waaaaaay too long with me. Tolerance & grace are gone; all bets are off! My two superpowers of my breathing & feeling step are journaling & my circle. Daily journaling allows me to get everything off my chest & not have to carry it into the next day. My circle knows how to listen & reel me back in or suit up & be ready for war. Both keep me grounded, & for the most part, cool...hence the names my sisters have deemed me: Zenny & Zennamin (Don't even ask. Just know the Miles sisters have made up their share of words that probably will never be in Webster's or the Urban Dictionaries). From there, step two is adjust without shame . Flexibility doesn’t mean failure. It means you're choosing to evolve in real-time. Maybe your timeline shifts. Maybe your goals look different. That’s okay. Adapting isn’t a setback—it’s a strength. This is a lesson I've learned as I've gotten older. If something doesn't happen when you expect it, it wasn't meant to be. That doesn't always equal a final "no;" it just means "not right now." An even better saying I heard a few weeks ago was from Coach Stormy Wellington: "I already have it; time just hasn't caught up to me yet." #powerful At Intentionally Evolve, we believe that healing & growth happen when you create space for the messy moments, too. When life throws the unexpected your way, remember: you can pause. You can pivot. And most importantly, you can keep moving forward—on your own terms. There are no rules set in stone so set your own. Do what's best for you as long as it doesn't hurt others intentionally. Breathe. Feel. Adjust. Every. Single. Time! So the next time life detours, do this: Breathe. Feel. Adjust. You’re not off course. You’re evolving.

Let’s be real: as busy women, we’re no strangers to lists, calendars, & planners that promise productivity but often feel like just another weight. I used to buy a new planner every year, doing my best to customize it & make it motivating…only to waste money on not staying consistent & the pretty lil book ends up buried in some corner. But what if planning wasn’t just about doing more—what if it was about feeling better ? I believe planning is more than organizing tasks—it’s an act of self-care . It’s about making space for what matters, protecting your energy, & giving yourself permission to breathe between the “shoulds” & “musts.” I’ve always been overly organized, but once adulting set in & I became a mother, my use of planners increased big time. Being able to add important tasks into my electronics is great, but I’m still old school with the pen & planner. If technology shuts down, ya girl still has everything on paperrrrrrr (in my Shawty Lo voice). 😂 Somehow planning my day is less negative  & is an essential part of my wind-down routine each night. Being proactive lessens my anxiety & challenges me to go hard when necessary. Plus, it’s such the opposite of being stressful. Here’s how to shift your mindset & make planning feel like a joy—not just another job. ⸻ 🌿 5 Ways to Make Planning Feel Nourishing 1. Romanticize Your Planning Ritual 💞 Make it feel good. Light a candle. Pour your favorite drink. Put on calming music. This isn’t a work meeting—it’s quality time with you . Turn your planning time into a ritual that grounds you & feels sacred, not rushed. I know when I start planning each evening, it’s my brain’s & body’s way of saying “aiiiite now; it’s time to chill out & shut it all down.” Between journaling & planning, most of the thoughts that fly through my mind at the speed of light are spilled onto the paper. 2. Use Tools That Inspire You 🧰 Ditch the plain planner & use something that reflects you . The Intentional Journal & the Intentionally Evolve Planner are designed to nurture your well-being while keeping you organized. The emotions that I feel when I’m most stressed out are erased when I pull those items out. Staying motivated, especially with planning, was one of my reasons to birth Intentionally Evolve. When you’re overwhelmed, burnt out, & feel like the world is against you, you need uplifting tools. This is why all Intentionally Evolve products include affirmations, self-care prompts, & space to reflect. 3. Focus on How You Want to Feel 🤔 Instead of starting your day with tasks, ask: How do I want to feel today? Let that guide your priorities. Maybe it’s “peaceful,” “focused,” or “energized.” Planning with emotions in mind creates flow, not friction. My physical, mental, emotional, & social feelings dictate the way I move each morning. I already prefer silence the first hour or 2 after waking up, but if more than one of those categories is thrown off, it shows across the board. My night-before planning sessions help motivate me when I glance at my planner & the dry erase board on my dresser. A little goes a long way! 4. Don’t Overplan—Create Margin 🗓️ Planning every hour of your day? That’s a fast track to burnout. Leave space between appointments. Build in buffer time. Add in some dance breaks. Planning should protect your peace, not steal it. I’m notorious for blocking off time in between appointments. Running late gives me anxiety & carrying the weight of the world puts my attitude on rude, so I have a 3 task limit per day. If I check them off my list, fine. And if I don’t, it’s not the end of the world either! 5. Reflect Often 🪞 At the end of the week, check in: What worked? What drained me? Celebrate the wins—even the small ones. Reflection turns your planner from a to-do tracker into a growth companion. Intentionally Evolve Planners have goal planning sections at the beginning & end of each month; space to jot down important tasks per day, week, & month; & a budgeting tool. Making my planner into more than just a calendar is a win-win situation. ⸻ 🪞Planning Isn’t Just Productivity—It’s Permission Planning with intention reminds you that you are in control of your time. It gives you permission to slow down, say no, & choose rest without guilt. It’s not about squeezing in more—it’s about making space for you . So the next time you pick up your planner, don’t just plan to get things done—plan like you love yourself. A glance into the Intentionally Evolve Planner & how it’s essential for self-care

Life moves fast, especially for women juggling careers, families, & personal ambitions. It’s easy to get caught in the current, feeling like you’re constantly reacting rather than intentionally creating your life. But what if you could press pause, just for a moment each month, to ensure you're still heading in the direction you truly desire? At Intentionally Evolve, we believe in the power of conscious living, intentional living. That's why we're introducing a simple yet profound practice: the Monthly Self-Audit. This isn't another item on your to-do list; it's an opportunity to check in with yourself, recalibrate, & ensure your actions align with your deepest values & goals. Your Monthly Self-Audit: A Journal-Based Reflection This practice is designed to be personal & flexible, using a journal as your guide. Think of it as a dedicated "you time" — a quiet space to reflect on the past month & intentionally plan for the next. Here’s how to get started: * Find Your Sanctuary: Choose a time & place where you won't be interrupted. Brew a cup of tea, light a candle – make it an inviting ritual. It's imperative to set the mood so you can really focus on the task at hand. The candlelight & some relaxing music always does the trick for me. * Reflect & Release: Open your journal & start by looking back at the past month. I have so many journals that I look back on occasionally, & it tells a tale of someone who has evolved so much & slayed a lot of dragons along the way. You really don't think about how far you've come on a regular basis, but you should start. Ask yourself the following questions:    * What went well? What were your wins, big or small?    * What challenges did you face? How did you navigate them?    * What lessons did you learn?    * What are you ready to let go of? (It could be a worry, a bad habit, or an unfulfilled expectation.) * Align & Intend: Now, shift your focus to the month ahead & answer the following:    * What are your top priorities for the coming weeks, in different areas of your life (work, relationships, well-being, personal growth)?    * How do these align with your long-term vision & values?    * What small, intentional steps can you take to move closer to your goals?    * What kind of energy do you want to cultivate this month? This monthly self-audit is your secret weapon against burnout & overwhelm. It’s about being proactive, not reactive. It’s about ensuring that while you're conquering your daily tasks, you’re also nourishing your soul & building the life you truly want. Now it may take you a nice amount of time to complete, but be honest with yourself & let your pen do the talking. You can do this in small sections or push through the entire exercise. But, if you're short on time, shoot us a message or comment on this post. We have a shorter version that is just as effective. Grab your copy of the Monthly Check-In Ready to start your journey of intentional evolution? Grab an Intentional Journal , set aside some time, & begin your first Monthly Self-Audit. Your future self will thank you.