In the hustle of daily life as a busy mom, wife, professional, & everything else in between, moments of feeling overwhelmed often creep in. There have been days when I stood in the kitchen, staring blankly at my to-do list, feeling stuck by choices & endless tasks. After experiencing too many days consumed by anxiety, I turned to my planner. It transformed into my mental health lifeline. And since it works for me so well, I had to create one for Intentionally Evolve. Here are three powerful ways planning for peace has reduced my overwhelm & helped me manage anxiety & decision fatigue. Planning for Peace by Dumbing Down Decision-Making As busy women, we often face a barrage of decisions. Should I make pasta for dinner or order takeout? Do I have time for a workout today? Do I put on "real" clothes or thug it out in this onesie all day? These everyday choices can zap our energy & contribute to what is known as decision fatigue. Research shows that making too many decisions can lead to a decline in the quality of those decisions over time, & honey, some of my decisions have been suspect as all get out! When I was a single parent (way back in the day), I had so much going on that it makes me tired now thinking about it. My son was in elementary school, playing flag football, & constantly getting in trouble due to his ADHD (this was back when most schools didn't have many interventions except suspension). On top of that, I was trying to live my best social life, working two jobs in the mental health field (which meant spending 1-2 hours after getting home doing documentation), & was a full-time grad student. I lacked sleep until summertime when my son would go visit his dad, I ran on E more days than not. With all of that piling up, my mental health declined, & I was OVERIT.COM. That dark place is one I never want to go back to, & I needed a lifesaver. Along with journaling, using a planner helped me develop a routine that simplified all of these choices I was faced with daily. I was able to block off time for work, time for schoolwork, time for the kid, & a sprinkle of time to be outside (or in dem skreetz is what we called it). Looking at my life on paper made it less intimidating & easier for me to figure out what my priorities really should be. The overwhelm slowly started decreasing the more I put my planner to use, & it's a habit I've continued ever since. Now, I'm way more organized because I became a creature of habit. Every evening, I plan the next day, blocking off time for important tasks at work & home, but also blocking time to wake up in peace & go to bed in peace. This allows me to focus on no more than three tasks to prioritize each day & leave a little room for cushion between them. I've learned that a major part of peace is breathing. I schedule my workouts for specific days, usually Monday-Wednesday mornings. They fall right between my morning routine & starting work. Sandwiching them that way helps motivate me to actually do it instead of making excuses at the end of the day. Knowing I have a designated time helps me stay committed & organized, so I spend less mental energy figuring out how to fit everything in. It’s like having a personal roadmap that directs me towards what truly matters. I've also started encouraging the kids to meal plan. It takes the pressure off of me to decide what I'll cook each evening, & it makes making my shopping list so much easier. Plus, it lessens the likelihood that one of them will say they don't want such & such. This simple decision-making framework cuts down on stress significantly. Collaboration & compromise for the win! A well-organized planner showing color-coded tasks & notes Planning for Peace by Kicking Overwhelm to the Curb with Structure When life feels chaotic, having a solid plan can greatly reduce feelings of overwhelm. Instead of feeling burdened by endless responsibilities, I carve out specific time slots for every aspect of my life. Yes, I'm one of those organizational freaks that believes everything has its place & needs to be put back in said place when you're done with it. For instance, I allocate certain hours in the week just for family activities & work tasks, as well as "me time." Knowing that I have these time blocks scheduled gives me a sense of control. On particularly stressful days, I can glance at my planner & remind myself that life unfolds in manageable segments. I can admit that I've been slacking on the "me time" lately, but I have some time blocked off strictly for that this weekend. A study by the American Psychological Association found that people who plan their time effectively reported lower levels of stress & anxiety. Seeing everything laid out not only clears my mind but also reassures me that I don’t have to do it all in a single day. A three-task maximum really takes some of the pressure off of doing it all. A peaceful workspace featuring a planner & a warm beverage, perfect for relaxation Planning for Peace by Creating a Safe Space for Reflection Planners are more than mere calendars; they can be a sanctuary for reflection. I dedicate time in my planner for self-reflection, checking in with my mental well-being regularly. Our Intentionally Evolve Planners have space for goal-planning, budgeting, important tasks & notes of the week, & a weekly self-care mission. These tools helped me stabilize my mental health, so I threw them in the Intentional Planner to share the wealth. What good is having knowledge if you're not going to share it? I schedule "me time" for several reasons. I use my morning routine to set the tone for the day mentally. I can take my time to get out of bed & sit in silence (most mornings) as I tap into my spiritual side. Sometimes I'm locked & loaded when the alarm goes off, & other times I'm fumbling around in the dark not wanting to open my eyes or move out of the warm covers. Whether I wake up at 4:30am or 6:30am, I know exactly how much time I've allotted to get my head in the game for the day. I use the nighttime routine to jot down my thoughts, feelings, & any grievances. I also unpack them even more in my journal. This supportive outlet allows me to untangle my emotions. I write down a positive affirmation for the next day & check off the tasks I completed that day, celebrating small successes. I try to determine if there is a pattern to my chaos so I can try to add any other interventions needed to be successful. At any time, I can go back to reflect on everything I've encountered. Reflecting on my experiences has significant mental health benefits. Studies show that journaling can reduce symptoms of anxiety & depression. It definitely has helped me with mine because there have been times my anxiety is on 11 & I need to reel myself back in. Writing also opens up space for gratitude, helping me appreciate small joys in a busy day, like a good conversation or a quiet moment. After a hard day, it can be difficult to find the positives, but I make myself find at least one thing every day. It also clears my mind for the evening so I can rest a little better. Finding Your Planning Path & Getting Back to Peace Navigating the fast-paced world we live in, especially as women balancing multiple roles, our planners can be vital tools for managing anxiety & decision fatigue. By simplifying decision-making, reducing overwhelm through structure, & creating a space for reflection, my planner has become essential to my mental health toolkit. If you haven't considered this approach, I encourage you to give planning a try. It could become the support you've been looking for to ride out life's storms. A planner is not just a place for appointments; it can be your grounding space & allow for calmer, more intentional living. As you take this journey, remember you deserve moments of peace amidst the beautiful chaos of life. Whether you are a busy mom, wife, or boss, embracing planning can empower you to take charge of your mental health, ensuring you navigate life with confidence & purpose.

Let’s just be real—some days, balance feels like a myth we chase between handling business, laundry piles, & one too many notifications. As women who lead, nurture, plan, & pour into everyone else, the question lingers: Can we really balance boss life & home life? 🤔 At Intentionally Evolve, we believe the answer isn’t a perfect yes—but a powerful “yes, in our own way.” Balance might not mean equal time, but it can mean equal intention . What looks & feels like balance for me can’t be chaos for another woman. There’s no one right way to fuse harmony into your life. The Myth of Perfect Balance with Balancing Boss Life & Home Life The world often sells us the image of the woman who has it all together — flawless in business, home, parenting, & personal care. But here’s the truth: that image isn’t real. Highlight reels are like tv shows, & trying to live up to it is exhausting. I mean, who really has an immaculate house 24/7? Not anyone who works, & definitely not anyone with kids. Not even my neat freak self does (& that’s a mental struggle at times but we’re not gonna even go there)! Instead of chasing perfection, we need to lean into progress . That’s the heart of Intentionally Evolve—recognizing that you don’t have to do it all at once, & you don’t have to do it alone. 🤗 My Personal Reality Check for Balancing Boss Life & Home Life Before I started building Intentionally Evolve, I thought I could create a detailed routine, stick to it, & somehow “balance” would just happen. Like ya girl had a magic wand or a genie in a bottle. Or like my Superwoman cape stayed on, never getting dirty or tattered, & gave me the power of She-Ra. For those who don't know who She-Ra is... What actually happened? Burnout. Guilt. And that nagging feeling that I was either falling short at home or behind in business. I was either able to put it together but not keep it that way, or I was keeping it together on the outside & falling apart on the inside. Neither was working, & all of that snowballed into a hot mess express too many times to count. But life has a funny way of teaching you lessons, ones we should listen to more often than not. Getting older has presented me with quite a bit of wisdom. Through journaling, grace, & setting more intentional goals, I found a rhythm—not a routine—that works for this season of life. When I say rhythm, I mean something completely different from the routines I have throughout the day. My routines are the things I do on a regular basis: my morning ritual, my nighttime wind down sessions, getting my spirituality on Sunday mornings, taking the dog out at certain times. You catch my drift. My rhythm is how I’ve decided to pace myself so I can stay as far away from the burnout ledge as possible. It’s knowing when it’s time to slow down because I’ve got too much going on. That’s a key shift: balance isn’t a destination; it’s a rhythm you adjust as life evolves. And life is going to evolve whether we like it or not. What Balance Can Look Like Balance isn’t just going to fall in your lap. It takes some effort to maintain, & that won’t always be easy, especially at the beginning. You have to take a realistic look at your situation & figure out what you need to do for things to work out the best way possible. A few small additions can help kick off a new rhythm that puts your mind, body, & spirit in sync. Try these: Intentional Boundaries: Take a look at your life & assess what needs to change for you to thrive. When do you disconnect from work? Will you put your phone on DND at a certain time each night? Do people have too much access to you? Ask yourself real questions like these & protect your peace. 💎 I.E. Gem: Put your phone on DND automatically at 9pm every night; NO QUESTIONS ASKED! Sacred Self-Care Time: Get your bag of self-care tricks ready, put a standing appointment on your calendar, & pour back into yourself. Just like you set appointments for your hair, for your health, & for meetings, pencil yourself in, even if it’s just for 15 minutes to step away to breathe. 💎 I. E. Gem: Pick a time each day to refill your cup, set an alert, & pause for a few minutes of some self-care. Pick a day each week to block off 2 hours for you to do whatever you want THAT DOES NOT INVOLVE DOING FOR ANYONE ELSE. Flexible Structures: Figure out what works for you that allows you to focus on recharging yourself but doesn’t create another task on your to-do list that has the opposite effect. This isn’t about adding pressure; it’s about prioritizing your mind, body, & soul without the guilt. 💎 I. E. Gem: Grab a planner to make sure you give yourself some cushion between tasks, & don’t overload your schedule. Set your maximum at 3 PRIORITIES PER DAY, & not a thing more. Community Support: Do you have a tribe? Every woman needs one, regardless of how big or small it is. Join spaces where other women are doing life, business, & healing—like our Intentionally Evolving Together community on Facebook (which I intend to expand in the near future 🤫). You don’t have to figure it out alone. 💎 I. E. Gem: Broaden your horizons & get involved in several groups. There’s always someone new you can connect with & some knowledge you can give & receive, even in spaces you may not usually get involved in. Come join your new tribe! Balance Is a Personal Journey At Intentionally Evolve, we honor the complexities of being a woman who leads at work & at home. People pat me on the back all the time for things I feel are just regular to me. Why wouldn’t I want to reciprocate that pat? I want women like myself to know they’re seen & they have support to push through the heavy load we carry. Between the life, career, & educational experiences I’ve had in my 47 years on Earth, I can say I’m too familiar with the importance of balance. I’ve found what’s worked for me through trial & error, & I’m going to pass all of those lessons on as much as possible. We don’t promise a magic formula, but we do offer tools, support, & space to help you define balance for yourself —on your own terms, Boss Bish! 💪🏽 Because the real flex? Being present where it matters most—& knowing that’s enough. ⸻ Ready to reclaim your rhythm? Explore our journals & self-care tools designed for real life, not the highlight reel. Let’s evolve—intentionally. 💋

Start Your Day With Clarity, Purpose, & Peace In the rush of juggling responsibilities—family, work, relationships, & personal goals—it’s easy to begin your day feeling behind before your feet even hit the floor. I know that feeling way too well, especially because my mind is always on go mode. That’s why creating a short but powerful morning ritual can make all the difference. Last year, I committed to a morning & nighttime routine. I wanted to feel more accomplished, get some quiet time, & not have to feel rushed before work. I went from getting up at 5:45 to get to work on time to getting up 75 minutes earlier. I never thought I could get up consistently at 4:30am & not feel tired. Now everybody doesn’t have to be an overachiever like me & get up way earlier than usual. To each her own. Tweak your routine according to what you feel you need before you officially kick off a busy day. Check these ideas out: Let's set this thang off right! Introducing The Morning Reset —a simple 15-minute routine designed specifically for busy women. This isn’t about adding more to your to-do list. It’s about starting your day grounded, focused, & emotionally aligned. You can choose a variety of things to do during this 15 minutes. Some ideas are: Meditation : I usually will pick something off YouTube or (in the past) the Calm app. I have to do guided ones because my mind will start roaming all over the place if I don’t. There are so many resources for guided meditations that you can google & tailor to your preferences. Or you can simply sit in silence or in nature & focus. Yoga : YouTube once again is my BFF for yoga sessions. Until I started a few years ago, I had no clue how many things can be addressed using yoga practices. You don’t have to choose something long either. I search “5 minute morning yoga” & pick something off of that list. Stretching is a great way to get the blood flowing each day. Spiritual practices : This is another non-negotiable for me. Before I do anything else on my phone, my Bible app is opened & I get spiritually fed. I also have 2 different devotionals I subscribed to that email me short inspiration Monday-Friday. Side note: one of them was eerily on point about finances this morning. The Lord be letting you know! Breakfast &/coffee : These aren’t at the top of my list, but I definitely nourish my body around 7am. The cup of coffee doesn’t give me the caffeine kick it gives most people. I just like the warm feeling. Mindful eating (eating without distractions & focusing on the meal with your senses) is a chance to multitask by feeding your body & mind simultaneously. Planning : I’m a planner, but I do my planning at night so I can have some type of game plan each day. It’s important to avoid overwhelm, so having an idea of what needs to get done can help reduce the negative feelings. Choose the top 3 things to push to definitely get done & leave everything else on the “fine if it gets done but fine if it doesn’t too” list. Affirmations : Another important piece of the morning reset! I make a list of affirmations at the beginning of each year that I can recite daily. The Reminder app is where I house them, & they’re set to go off at 6am from January 1st-December 31st. Hype yourself up, sis! Journaling : I don’t personally journal in the morning because I use it to empty my mind each evening. However, plenty of people start their day with it. It helps set your intentions for the next 24 hours & is a chance to reiterate how dope you are & will be that day. Why You Need a Morning Reset When you take just 15 minutes each morning to check in with yourself, something shifts. Instead of reacting to your day, you lead it. You start with clarity, rather than chaos. With intention, rather than overwhelm. And with peace, rather than pressure. Getting up earlier gives me the cushion to fully wake up & get my mind together before being planted at a desk for 8 hours. It just takes a little prepping the night before to make sure you’re ready to rock the next day. A Few Things You May Need A journal (like the Intentional Journal or Soulful Serenity ) A pen (if you’re journaling) A quiet space—even if it’s just a corner of your kitchen or 5 minutes in your car A planner (like our Intentionally Evolve Planner ) A plan (don’t wing it or it may become stressful) An open mind The 15-Minute Ritual My ritual doesn’t have time limits on anything except the yoga session, but I do have an order I consistently go in: Spiritual feeding Meditation Yoga Reminder of my top 3 priorities for the day (written on a dry erase board from the previous night) Affirmations Breakfast with coffee (most days) My way isn’t the only way, but I found a simple routine that keeps you within a 15-minute time limit. Looks pretty effective to me… 3 Minutes of Mindful Breathing or Meditation: Before you do anything, breathe. Close your eyes & inhale deeply. Let your body soften. Let your thoughts settle. 5 Minutes of Journaling: Use prompts like these to get your mind on a positive path: How am I feeling this morning? What do I need today—emotionally, physically, mentally? What’s one thing I can do to nurture myself today? This check-in builds self-awareness & sets a tone of compassion & alignment. It makes you set an intention for prioritizing your self-care. 3. 5 Minutes of Planning With Purpose: Write down your top 3 priorities for the day, 1 self-care act you’ll commit to, & a mantra or affirmation (ex: “I give myself permission to pause & choose peace.” ) 4. 2 Minutes of Visualizing Your Day: Picture your ideal flow. See yourself moving through your day with confidence, grace, & calm. This helps your brain prime for intentional action. The Power of Consistency This isn’t about perfection. Some mornings might be rushed (which is why I get up so early so I can dodge that ol heifa Anxiety ). Others may feel magical. But the more you return to your morning reset, the more empowered & aligned you’ll feel—no matter what life throws at you. Since beginning my morning & nighttime routines at the beginning of 2024, I definitely feel like I've started my day in a more relaxed & positive frame of mind. Once my body got used to 4:30, it was easier every day to rise & shine right away. I give myself time to coast through the morning instead of leading the pack on the NASCAR track. Remember: You deserve a morning that honors you , sis! Let The Morning Reset be your daily anchor, your personal ritual, & your reminder that you are worthy of peace & purpose—even in just 15 minutes.

Burnout isn’t just about physical exhaustion—it’s the silent scream of your mental & emotional bandwidth maxing out. If you're constantly tired, irritated, & feeling like your to-do list is never-ending, you might be doing too much. And this is coming from the Queen of To-Do Lists who seems to be doing too much too often. As women, especially those of us who are wives & mothers, we frequently feel like we can't take a moment for ourselves. As soon as we think about stealing a few minutes to recharge or just escape mentally, here comes the negative feelings. Either somebody is gonna throw the puppy dog eyes at us, or our conscience starts whispering "now girl, you know you should be doing..." There are ways to get around that heavy feeling that enters the room, the one that prevents you from taking a pause without guilt. However, you have to know your opponent in order to defeat the enemy. Here are five signs you’re overwhelmed & a few simple, guilt-free ways to hit pause: Signs You’re Doing Too Much 🫨: You forget things easily.  Your brain is overloaded & struggling to keep up. Chile, this is me all the time. This brain stays on 10, starts crossing up information, & then I end up frustrated because I have no clue what I was supposed to be doing. Guess it can't all be blamed on aging... You feel resentful.  Even small asks feel like big demands. Yeah, I have to do some self-talk on the regular to say "Meia, fix your face." One of the most annoying things to me is to ask me to do something when you already know I have a lot going on (which happens all the time because I'm the go-to person). When it comes to a point where you don’t like doing something, you’ll know it’s time to stop. You have trouble sleeping.  Your mind won't shut off at night. It doesn’t even have to be said louder for the people in the back. I feel attacked for being called out like this 🫣. It's all facts though. You lack joy in things you usually enjoy.  Burnout steals your spark. Without energy, you feel like doing even less. You don't even want to move to eat or use the bathroom. You just want to be . You always feel behind.  No matter how much you do, it never feels like enough. "This a Rollie, not a stopwatch, sh*t don't ever stop" anyone??? Guilty, yet again, but I’ve also noticed that I overload myself with things to do & don’t do well with asking for help. Full transparency, all of the above are me probably 75% of the week. Me just staying in constant grind mode, & that's not good, not healthy, & not it! And I definitely feel guilty if I can't follow through with something on my agenda, especially if it's for someone else. People pleasing will leave you exhausted. However, I've learned some ways to pause without feeling guilty, especially when you know you're doing too much. A few are: Give yourself permission.  Rest isn’t earned—it’s essential. Our bodies aren't built to keep going. Eventually you'll crash & burn. Been there, done that several times, & there's nothing fun about not being able to move even when you want or need to. Take the time, sis, no matter how long or short it is. Set micro-boundaries.  Say "no" or delegate one thing today. "No" has become one of my new favorite words. People will suck you dry & then look at you crazy when you can no longer max out for them. Look on, honey, because I got a new attitude. One of my micro-boundaries is my nighttime routine. Phone goes on DND for Personal Time for an hour. Nobody is getting through, & I'm taking time out to wind down from the day. This is when I plan my next day's top 3 tasks to focus on, take a relaxing shower, do a wind down yoga session, read some of the Bible, & crack my good ol' journal open to decompress. Babyyyyy...journaling will lift weigh off your shoulders! Schedule nothing.  Block time in your planner for mental rest. I've been trying to block off 2 hours per week for myself to do nothing. Lately, I haven't been very successful, but it's coming. I have to check a few more important things off the list first over the next couple of months, & then it's on! MANDATORY! Celebrate small pauses.  A 10-minute break counts. Those short pauses work wonders. When I get frustrated at work, I hit the team with "BRB," leave the desk, & just breathe. Stretching helps, getting a snack is always good, & taking a walk never hurts. Pat yourself on the back for taking a break. Replace guilt with gratitude.  Thank yourself for listening to your needs. We're all still breathing, so we all have something to be grateful for. Things could be worse, a lot worse. Just think about your lowest times & compare them to now. You might be surprised at how far you've come. Taking a break doesn’t make you lazy—it keeps you well. Let your pause be an intentional act of self-preservation. And while you're at it, pick up a journal to begin a new journey. You won't need another for at least a year, & you'll have a copy when you attend H.E.R.E. Unfiltered , our monthly live journaling session. The next session is this Sunday, May 4th at 3pm, so add it to your calendar as “SELF-CARE.”

Balance & self-care don’t just happen—they’re created intentionally . With so much on your plate, it’s easy to let your own needs fall to the bottom of the list. That’s why planning & journaling are powerful tools to help you stay connected to yourself. You have to plan for peace. Y’all already know how I feel about journaling. It’s a habit I developed long ago & probably one of the few things I started that have continued long-term. Now, planning is what keeps me more grounded & less stressed. I’ve incorporated it into my nighttime routine because it’s helped in many ways. #1 : Planning is self-care 💯 I faithfully get a planner every year so I can attempt to keep this busy life in some type of order. Even though we started off creating journals, it dawned on me that I was spending quite a bit on planners annually (it was averaging $50-60 easily once I customized it). 🤦🏾‍♀️ And so, Intentionally Evolve Planners were born. When I use my Intentionally Evolve Planner, I make sure I can put some order in place for all of my commitments. With all of these children & responsibilities, I need a safety net just in case my phone calendar goes haywire. I’m a visual person, so putting things on paper leave me less stressed & overwhelmed. Your planner isn’t just for writing down to-dos. It gives your peace a place on the calendar. It encourages you to block off enough time for the most important tasks & holds you accountable for completing them. And I’m not just talking about work & family commitments. You can schedule in: Quiet breaks between meetings (Sometimes you need that breather after having a tough convo, negotiating a major deal, or listening to someone talk nonstop) A weekly self-care ritual (Our adult planners just so happen to have a weekly self-care task that reminds you to make time for yourself) Monthly check-ins to evaluate your energy & goals (Just like you reflect on your progress on other things throughout the month, you need to take time to reflect on things on the outside as well) #2 : Journaling keeps you centered 🧘🏽‍♀️ Y’all already know about my love for journaling. With the week I’ve had, it’s been my vent space. It allows me to lay everything on the line & move on the next day. And since there are 2 different themed journals for adults, I can choose to view things from a spiritual side or a self-care side. Either way has been helpful. If you have a journal , I encourage you to go deep. Why waste time & space on being superficial? You have to dig deep to the roots to stop things from festering & growing. Use your journal to ask yourself things like: How am I really feeling this week? What am I avoiding that I need to face? What would help me feel supported right now? These are just some quick questions that can get your mind going & really focusing on yourself & your needs. When you do the work, change comes & wonders happen! Together, journaling & planning help you shift from survival mode to intentional living. You’re not just reacting—you’re choosing your pace, your peace, & your priorities. There’s no harm in putting a little extra into your routine that benefits your well-being. Action Step 💡: Today, schedule one non-negotiable self-care block in your planner for the next week. Then journal how it feels to actually give yourself that time. Let me know how that goes… Pick up something special from Intentionally Evolve to plan your peace

We all have a limit. And even the strongest women can burn out when they ignore the signs…story of my life. 😒 The goal isn’t to live without stress—it’s to notice when it’s too much & pause before things break, & I’m working on it. There’s nothing fun about crashing & burning. I’m notorious for taking it to the max, & that definitely doesn’t always work out for the best. It’s the overachiever in me & a difficult task for me to not strive for excellence in everything I do. A gift & a curse for sure! Warning: You’re Nearing Your Breaking Point ⚠️ Even though I ignore the signs sometimes, there are definitely signs that you’re on the way to the point of no return. Some warning signs that you’re approaching your limit are: You’re irritable or impatient over small things You feel tired even after sleeping Your mind is racing or shutting down You’ve lost interest in things you usually enjoy Right now, I can honestly say #2 & #3 are right up my alley, especially the sleep part. I’m either needing to sleep & am exhausted but have too much to do, or I have a clear schedule & can’t sleep because I haven't been able to wind down. Either way, I rarely feel rested. The racing mind is just my norm. I don't think my brain would turn off even if I tried. Right at my breaking point a few months ago Your Breaking Point Intervention ✍🏾 Journaling helps you notice patterns you might otherwise ignore. Intentionally Evolve is intentional (pun intended) about making sure our prompts help you to reflect. If you haven’t gotten a journal yet, try grabbing a notebook or your Notes app & using these prompts to back away from the edge: What is currently draining my energy? What am I holding onto that no longer serves me? What does “too much” feel like in my body? Be Proactive: Avoid Your Breaking Point 🙅🏽‍♀️ Emotional check-ins will get you together. They push you into doing a reality check so you can course correct. When you practice regular emotional check-ins, you’ll start to recognize those red flags—& that gives you the power to shift before you break. My daily journaling serves as my emotional check-in. It’s my way of emptying out the negative so I can attempt to get some rest each night (keyword: attempt ). Being able to process things & write them out is one of my coping skills that definitely has proven to work. That's the foundation for Intentionally Evolve's purpose. Now if you don't own one of our journals, there are some alternatives. I won't be a hater & not tell you to use whatever works for you just because you don't have one of our products. To each, his/her own, but you can take the easy way out & pick up an Intentional Journal or Soulful Serenity . You’ll get a dose of inspiration while reflecting consistently without the trouble of finding a writing prompt that gets your mind going.

Have you ever felt like you’re still searching for your true calling? Like no matter how much you accomplish, there’s something more waiting for you? You’re not alone. Honey, with all of the things I have my hands in right now, sometimes I feel like I know my exact calling, while other times I feel like Dora the Explorer. Mentally, I’m all over the place. Many of us go through seasons of life where we feel lost, uncertain, or even disconnected from our purpose. But what if instead of searching for one perfect calling, we embraced the journey of evolving into who we are meant to be? 🤔 The Journey of Becoming 🗺️ At  Intentionally Evolve , we believe self-discovery isn’t about finding a single destination—it’s about embracing the process of evolving. Life isn’t static, & neither are you. Your purpose can shift & grow just as you do. That’s why self-care, reflection, & intentional living are at the core of everything we offer. I think every new calendar year & birth year I get this feeling of reflection & start questioning what’s next. Since I just turned the big 4-7 last month & am back from a very relaxing vacation, I’m wondering if go mode on 50-leven things is really the path I’m supposed to be on. My focus is being split between my business, 2 mentorship programs, gaining knowledge to start an additional business, my kids & all of their vidas locas, planning several trips, tackling our finances, & staying connected to & supportive of my man my man my man… Dang, I just made myself even more tired!  If you’re in a similar state of mind, you understand how overwhelmed I feel at times. Those Pisces traits have been at an all-time high over the last year: absorbing everyone’s issues & trying to rescue the world, being way too creative at times (which is a lot of the reason I’m overwhelmed), & retreating into my lil shell whenever the block gets a lil too hot. Doing👏🏽the👏🏽most👏🏽! When I get this stuck feeling or second-guessing my path, it’s time for some intentional self-reflection. Many people prefer to avoid this because you have to really keep it a buck with yourself, but the pro is gaining clarity. That’s where journaling, planning, & self-care come in—not just as tasks to check off, but as tools to guide you. This is one of the bases of Intentionally Evolve, our products, & the community we’re building. How Our Products Support Your Journey 🎗️ Journals for Self-Discovery 📓 Our  Intentional Journal  & spiritual journal  Soulful Serenity  are designed to help you reflect on your thoughts, emotions, & desires. Through guided prompts & affirmations, you can uncover what truly excites & fulfills you. Between setting priorities for the next day, pouring your guts out on the pages, & reminding yourself of all that you should be grateful for, our journals help shed some light on that path you’re in search of. They’ve helped with exploring all of the nonstop ideas that flow through my brain, & it’ll most likely help through my current state. With my line of work outside of Intentionally Evolve, I’ve seen firsthand how much our youth need our guidance. Mental health is REAL y’all, & these babies are up against way more than we were. They need all of the support they can get, which is why we had to dedicate a line of products to that population: our journal Youthful Reflections & our school-based planners. Plenty of resources & coping skills to help them build healthy habits. Planners for Clarity & Direction 🗓️ Sometimes, feeling lost stems from not having a clear vision of where you’re headed. Our  Intentionally Evolve Planners  help you set goals, organize your life, & align your daily actions with what matters most. I faithfully plan my days the night before, making sure I set aside enough time for a few things: my morning routine, time for no more than 3 priority tasks, & my nighttime routine. Those 3 things are always on my agenda, & being able to see the vision mentally & put it on paper helps me to stay focused.  With everything that I’ve had going on in the last 15 months, I’ve had to block time off intentionally to avoid cracking. People tell me all the time that they don’t know how I work 40 hours doing behavioral health, knock out things for my business, am on a nonprofit board, & manage 4 kids & a husband, check in on 3 stubborn parents, & still find time for self-care. The answer: it’s a non-negotiable for me! Community & Live Journaling Sessions 👩🏽‍💻 Growth happens in connection with others. We recently started a  live journaling series  called H.E.R.E., in an effort to build community & move outside of our comfort zone. So far, we’ve done 3, & we’re starting to get used to it. You can’t create a community without the “community!” Our community,  Intentionally Evolving Together , will be a bit more exclusive than our social media pages. Having a smaller group is more intimate & gives us the opportunity to really connect & provide a space for you to reflect, share, & find encouragement from others on similar journeys. They’ll be the first to get the scoop on anything new we have going on, & our wheels have been spinning on other perks that’ll come along with subscribing. Another community we’re involved in is  Healing While Building , an empowerment group that pushes you into greatness. It’s basically been my training camp for the last 5 months. The very place to gain clarity on my random thoughts with lots of encouragement. Great vibes, great info, & great people! Embracing the Evolution 🫂 Instead of waiting for the “perfect” calling to reveal itself, what if you trusted the process of intentionally evolving? Every step you take toward self-care, reflection, & personal growth brings you closer to the life that feels aligned with who you are becoming. That’s why we push self-care on people constantly. You have to take care of yourself so you can continue the journey. If you’re feeling uncertain about your path, start small. Pick up a journal, set an intention for the week, & allow yourself the grace to explore without pressure. Your purpose is unfolding, &  Intentionally Evolve  is here to support you every step of the way, especially since you are what makes us what we are! Are you ready to embrace your journey? Explore our journals, planners, & self-care resources to start evolving with intention.

Balance isn’t about doing everything perfectly—it’s about honoring your energy, your priorities, & your peace. At Intentionally Evolve , we believe that balance is personal. It’s not a final destination—it’s a rhythm you create & adjust as your life evolves…& it’s something I’m still working on. Too often, women are told that balance means keeping everything together without breaking a sweat. You’re pretty much supposed to be Supermom, Molly the Maid, Martha Stewart, the Proverbs 31 woman, Olivia Pope, & Pinky all wrapped up into one flawless sweetheart of a woman…& never break a sweat! 😒 But real balance sometimes means stepping away, asking for help, or simply saying “ no .” When I think of balance right now, it’s not something I always master gracefully. To the outside world, it may look like I juggle all the things with ease; running kids around, cooking at least 5 days a week, keeping a solid marriage, being a boss, & always having a good time. The ugly truth: ya girl is up at 4:30 Monday-Friday, multitasking all day long trying to max out productivity, & on a good day, I’m asleep by 10. However, most weeknights average about 4 hours of sleep each night, moving through the day with my eyes burning. Crazy unhealthy! When I’m truly balanced, my routine looks a lil something like this: Waking up after 6+ hours of sleep feeling refreshed No rushing to do anything or be anywhere Having a gap that’s an hour or more between major tasks Focusing on 1 task at a time with my phone on DND Dinner being prepped or in the crockpot so the bare minimum is done to complete the meal Having time to spend with the family on the couch in the evening Getting in bed by 9 Being balanced also looks a bit like me in vacation mode: no plans set in stone, working if I catch some inspiration, getting real rest, & not worrying about a thing. Honestly, vacations are usually what I use to reset after running around for months. They give me something to look forward to. So what does balance look like for you ? It might be: Taking 10 minutes in the morning just for yourself Delegating tasks instead of doing it all Saying “no” to good things to make space for the best things If you’re following in my current footsteps, join me in slowing down, eliminating anything that causes stress, & just being. Start Here: Take five minutes today to reflect: What areas of my life feel most unbalanced right now? What would it look like to create more peace this week? Those are great journal prompts that allow you to do some self-reflection & plan ahead. Now would be a great time to pick up your Intentional Journal to answer these questions. Those pages have freed my mind on many a day. But but BUT… pump your brakes, sis. We’re not hustling backwards & piling things on our plates. It’s springtime, & that’s when things begin to grow. Growth takes time though, & so does finding balance. You don’t need to figure it all out—just start by checking in.

Vacations are a time to relax, reset, & step away from the daily grind. But coming back to reality? That can feel overwhelming. Chile it has taken everything in me to come back to work this week after Cruise Camp 2025. Ya girl was in total zen mode & didn’t want to leave vacation life. The transition from vacation mode to productivity mode doesn’t have to be a struggle though—it’s all about reframing your mind. Instead of dreading the return to responsibilities, use this as an opportunity to refresh your perspective. I sure had to put some effort into switching from “whyyyyyyy do I have to go back to reality” to “let’s get it.” I had to remind myself that vacations are temporary breaks from responsibility…at least until I can either win the lottery (which I rarely play) or find this mythical job I’ve been seeking for years called a “professional vacationer.” Both of those options seem bleak right now. Rather than thinking of your to-do list as a burden, view it as a roadmap to success. Changing your mindset to the positive side can turn your frown upside down, but it takes effort. One way to do this is by using the Intentionally Evolve Planner to structure your return with intention. Here’s how to ease back into your routine with motivation & clarity: 1. Reflect on Your Time Away – Use your journal to jot down highlights from your trip. What moments brought you joy? What insights did you gain? I don’t have to necessarily jot any down since I write every night, but the notes section of my planner stays in use. 2. Set Post-Vacation Goals – Instead of diving straight into work, set small, achievable goals for the first few days back. The planner’s goal-setting sections can help you map out priorities without feeling overwhelmed. This is one way I made a mistake. I traveled all day Monday & took Tuesday off, but I didn’t feel rested yesterday when it was time to return to the desk. I should have probably taken the rest of the week off & given myself more time to reset into reality. 3. Ease Into Productivity – Schedule your tasks realistically. Now this is something I do every evening. I like to make time for the important things & leave a lil cushion so I don’t overwhelm myself. Our planner’s weekly planning pages help you create a balanced schedule that allows for both productivity & self-care.  4. Maintain Vacation Lessons – Did you feel more present? More creative? Honey, I have no clue what lessons I need to maintain from vacation, simply because I stayed in the moment. But you can use the self-care prompts in the planner to bring those vacation vibes into your daily life. Reframing your mindset after a break is all about choosing motivation over frustration. With the Intentionally Evolve Planner, you can step back into your routine with purpose, focus, & a little bit of that post-vacation glow still intact. Ready to make your return to reality smoother? Grab your Intentionally Evolve Planner  today & start planning with intention!

Journaling is often thought of as a quiet time to reflect. But it can be so much more. This powerful tool can spark personal growth, help you clarify your intentions, and build accountability in your daily life. If you’ve struggled to stay engaged with your journaling practice, don’t worry. With the right approach, your journal can become a supportive partner on your path to intentional living. The Benefits of Intentional Journaling Intentional journaling is more than writing down your daily events; it involves consciously reflecting on your thoughts, feelings, and objectives. This type of journaling allows you to tap into your inner motivations, leading to a better understanding of yourself. One major benefit of intentional journaling is clarity. When you write, you transform your thoughts into something concrete. For instance, research shows that people who write about their goals are 42% more likely to achieve them. As you articulate your wishes and concerns in your journal, you may uncover recurring patterns and areas needing growth. If you ever feel stuck, journaling can help you explore your thoughts without criticism, igniting creativity and new ideas. A 2019 study indicated that expressive journaling can reduce anxiety by up to 40%. How Journaling Builds Accountability Accountability is essential for personal progress. When you commit to writing in your journal regularly, you take responsibility for your thoughts and actions. This process acts like a mirror, showing your progress and areas needing attention. By setting clear goals in your journal, like daily affirmations or weekly reflections, you create a contract with yourself. Each entry becomes a step toward realizing your dreams. For example, if you write down a goal such as "I will run three times a week," each completed run becomes a point of accountability. Reviewing past entries also allows you to track your development. Reflect on your growth: Are you moving closer to your set goals? Are there common obstacles impeding you? Such insights are invaluable for maintaining motivation. Creating a Structured Journaling Routine Motivation can dwindle without a clear structure. A defined journaling routine will enhance your experience and commitment, making your practice a regular part of your life. Begin by choosing a specific time each day or week to journal. Whether in the early morning, before bed, or during your lunch break, routine is important. Try to journal at least five times a week to stay in practice. Additionally, experiment with different formats. Write lists, answer prompts, or focus on specific themes. Keeping your journal sessions varied and engaging will help avoid monotony and burnout. Prompting Reflection and Meaningful Writing Coming up with topics to write about can be challenging. Using prompts can help overcome this obstacle and foster meaningful reflection. Consider these examples: What are three things I am grateful for today? What challenges did I face this week, and how did I navigate them? How can I realign my actions with my long-term goals? These prompts guide your writing and ensure you focus on themes of growth and self-reflection that are central to intentional journaling. Incorporating Visual Elements Journaling can also include visual elements. Adding sketches or photographs can enhance your reflective journey. If you enjoy visual art, consider integrating drawings or clips that inspire you into your writing. A journal adorned with imagery can motivate you to write. The Intentional Journal , with its premium hard cover and thoughtful design, serves as an ideal space for your creativity and thoughts. Overcoming Barriers to Journaling Life can disrupt even the best intentions, resulting in sporadic journaling. Here are effective strategies to overcome these hurdles: Set Realistic Expectations : Allow yourself the freedom to miss days. Consistency matters more than perfection in your journaling journey. Make it Accessible : Keep your journal in a visible place. This reminder can encourage you to write and help reduce procrastination. Join a Community : Connecting with fellow journal lovers can boost your passion. Look for online forums, workshops, or local groups focused on journaling to help inspire and hold you accountable. Celebrating Your Growth One of the most fulfilling parts of journaling is acknowledging your journey. Take the time to review past entries and celebrate your achievements and lessons learned. Create milestones for your accomplishments, marking them with specific journal entries. This practice can instill a sense of purpose in your journaling and motivate you to continue your growth. Embracing Your Journey Intentional journaling is a powerful practice that cultivates clarity, accountability, and personal development. By embracing these strategies, you can enhance your journaling experience and deepen your connection with your thoughts and emotions. Whether you are new to journaling or seeking to reignite your passion, remember that your journey is uniquely your own. Utilize these ideas to create a personalized and structured practice, allowing your commitment to blossom into profound growth. As you hold your Intentional Journal , let it serve as a vessel for your dreams and reflections. Embrace your journey and let your writings lead you toward a more intentional and fulfilling life. An inviting space with a journal and pen ready for reflections.

When life gets overwhelming, recharging is essential—but how you do it can make all the difference. Some people find energy in the company of loved ones, while others need solitude to truly reset. Group Recharging Recharging with family & friends can be uplifting. Laughter, deep conversations, & shared experiences create a sense of connection & belonging. Whether it’s a game night, brunch, or a simple heart-to-heart, being around supportive people can be a powerful mood booster. #CruiseCamp2025 has officially kicked off, & the crew is almost all here. We’ve had several rounds of drinks & food & haven’t even made it to the ship yet. Ohhhh but when we do…😈 Solo Recharging On the other hand, solo recharging offers a different kind of renewal. Taking time alone—journaling, reading, or simply enjoying quiet moments—allows for deep reflection & mental clarity. It’s an opportunity to listen to your own thoughts without external distractions. I will be taking some solo time over the next 5 days. The Pisces in me just wouldn’t be completely rested without taking some time to myself. I’m good for going into a corner, slapping on my headphones, & zoning out. As long as there’s sunshine & a lil breeze, I’ll sit in a pool chair for hours. Recharging as a Happy Medium The key is balance. Sometimes, you need the warmth of community; other times, you need the peace of solitude. Pay attention to what your mind & body crave, & give yourself permission to recharge in the way that serves you best. Th next couple of days, I’m choosing a happy medium. I plan to enjoy my loved ones & make some good memories & take some of time to myself to reset mentally, physically, & socially. Let the shenanigans begin! Which way do you recharge most—solo or with loved ones?