February has a quiet energy to it. The hype of January goal-setting has worn off, the weather is still doing the most, & hustle culture is whispering (okay, shouting, seemingly nonstop), “You should be doing more.” Friend, let’s lovingly ignore that voice. This month, we’re choosing harmony over hustle —because self-care for busy women isn’t about doing everything . It’s about doing what actually supports your mental wellness without draining your soul. Why Hustle Culture Is So Loud (& So Exhausting) Hustle culture convinces us that rest is earned, productivity equals worth, & slowing down means falling behind. For busy women juggling careers, families, relationships, & everyone else’s needs, that mindset leads straight to burnout. Can I get an Amen because babyyyy...I won't even go there! Mental wellness suffers when your nervous system never gets a break. Constant stress doesn’t make you stronger—it makes you tired, irritable, & disconnected from yourself. Choosing harmony doesn’t mean quitting your goals. It means pursuing them in ways that don’t cost you your peace. What “Harmony Over Hustle” Really Means Harmony isn’t about balance being perfect every day. It’s about alignment. It looks like: Creating routines that support mental health (like my morning & nighttime routines) Letting go of unrealistic expectations (bye Superwoman) Choosing progress over perfection (putting that action in no matter what) Practicing self-care for busy women in small, doable ways (even taking 2 minutes to stop & breathe counts) Harmony says, “I can grow & rest at the same time.” A February Mindset Shift You Can Actually Keep Instead of asking, “How much can I get done today?”  try asking: What would make today feel lighter? What does my mental wellness need right now? Where can I choose ease instead of pressure? This shift alone reduces stress & increases emotional clarity—two things busy women rarely get enough of. Simple Self-Care for Busy Women (No Extra Time Required) Let’s be real: long spa days aren’t happening, no matter how hard you wish upon a star for them. Try these instead: 5-minute journaling check-in  to release mental clutter Intentional pauses  between tasks to reset your nervous system One boundary a day  that protects your energy Compassionate self-talk  when things don’t go as planned Small habits create sustainable mental wellness. Consistency matters more than intensity. Why Ease Is a Power Move Choosing ease doesn’t make you lazy—it makes you intentional. When you stop hustling on autopilot, you create space for clarity, creativity, & calm. You become more present, more grounded, & more connected to what truly matters. That’s the heart of Intentionally Evolve: supporting women who want growth &  gentleness, ambition & rest. Your February Permission Slip This month, give yourself permission to: Rest without guilt Redefine productivity Prioritize mental wellness Practice self-care for busy women in ways that fit real life Harmony over hustle isn’t a trend—it’s a lifestyle shift. And February is the perfect time to begin.

If you’re a busy woman juggling work, family, responsibilities, & expectations—mental wellness can feel like something you’ll “get to later.” But later rarely comes. Stress builds, emotions pile up, & eventually burnout shows up uninvited. Man, don’t I understand this…ALL OF THIS! This is where journaling as a coping skill becomes a powerful, accessible mental wellness habit. What Does It Mean to Use Journaling as a Coping Skill? 📝 Journaling as a coping skill means using intentional writing to process thoughts, regulate emotions, & reduce mental overload. Instead of holding everything in, journaling gives your mind a safe place to release, reflect, & reset. That’s exactly why I don’t miss a night of writing. You don’t need perfect grammar, long entries, or hours of free time. Even a few focused minutes can help your nervous system calm & your thoughts become clearer. Honey, I’ve written a single sentence before & was content with it. Why Busy Women Struggle With Mental Overload 🤯 Many busy women are functioning in survival mode—pushing through stress while minimizing their own needs. Over time, this can lead to: Emotional exhaustion Racing thoughts Difficulty sleeping Increased anxiety or irritability Feeling disconnected from yourself Journaling creates intentional pauses in the day where your mental health is prioritized—without requiring a full lifestyle overhaul. It’s my mind’s signal to transition from hustling during the day to unwinding before bed. How Journaling Supports Mental Wellness 🧘🏽‍♀️ I know some people may think I’m blowing smoke since I’m a journal lover, but taking time to journal is legit. Research shows that expressive writing can: Reduce stress & anxiety Improve emotional regulation Increase self-awareness Support problem-solving Improve overall mental clarity When journaling becomes a regular habit, it acts as emotional maintenance—helping prevent overwhelm before it reaches a breaking point. A lot of times it’s exactly what keeps me from losing it on people because when that Big Pisces Energy comes out, it’s a wrap. Simple Ways to Start Journaling (Even When You’re Busy) You don’t need to journal every day for 30 minutes (I sure don’t. Ain’t no way my hand would make it past 10 minutes max). Start small: Write 3 sentences about how you feel Brain-dump everything on your mind Use a guided prompt focused on emotions or stress Journal before bed to release the day (My whole purpose…working in behavioral health will make you have to release) The key is consistency, not perfection. Journaling as a Form of Self-Care (Not Another Task) Journaling isn’t about productivity—it’s about permission. Permission to slow down. Permission to feel. Permission to process without judgment. When journaling is framed as a coping skill instead of a chore, it becomes a sustainable mental wellness habit that meets you where you are. It definitely has changed my coping skills for the better. It’s just a normal part of my day now.

Let’s be honest—by the time January arrives, most busy women are already tired. Tired from the holidays. Tired from carrying everyone else’s needs. Tired from the unspoken pressure to “come back stronger” on January 1st. If you’ve ever felt behind before the year even really started, this is your permission slip to do things differently. Welcome to slow living for busy women—where your New Year begins with intention instead of intensity. The Problem With the Hustle-First New Year Every January, we’re sold the same message: New year, new you Set bigger goals Wake up earlier Do more, faster, better But here’s the truth most busy women already know in their bones: Hustle doesn’t heal burnout. Starting the year in overdrive often leads to: Mental exhaustion by February Abandoned goals by March Guilt for “not sticking with it” And none of that supports your mental wellness. Why Slow Living for Busy Women Actually Works Slow living doesn’t mean doing nothing. It means doing what matters—on purpose. Slow living for busy women focuses on: Nervous system regulation Sustainable routines Gentle goal-setting Realistic expectations Instead of asking, “How can I do more?” You ask, “What actually supports me?” That shift alone can change how your entire year unfolds. A Gentle Way to Start 2026 (That Still Counts) A softer start might look like: Choosing one word for the year instead of 10 goals Creating rhythms instead of rigid routines Prioritizing rest without earning it Setting intentions that support your life—not overhaul it Progress doesn’t disappear just because it’s gentle. In fact, it tends to last longer. Busy Women Don’t Need More Pressure—They Need Permission If you’re balancing work, family, relationships, caregiving, & personal growth, your nervous system doesn’t need a bootcamp. It needs: Consistency Compassion Space to breathe Slow living for busy women honors the season you’re in—without forcing you to become someone else to be “worthy” of growth. Let 2026 Be the Year You Ease In You don’t have to sprint into January. You don’t have to hustle to prove you’re motivated. You don’t have to pressure yourself to get it all right. A softer start is still a powerful one. At Intentionally Evolve, we believe sustainable growth begins with self-awareness, rest, & intention—not exhaustion. So if your New Year feels quieter, slower, or more intentional than the highlight reels online? You’re doing it right.

Let’s get one thing straight: if planning required perfection, most of us would’ve quit by February. Or January 3rd. Or honestly… the moment the planner arrived & we realized life didn’t magically slow down just because we bought a new one. Intentional planning for busy women isn’t about having a flawless system, perfectly aligned stickers, or a morning routine that starts at 5 a.m. with green juice & gratitude journaling (no shade if that’s your thing—but also… how?). It’s about creating just enough structure  to support your mental wellness without adding pressure  to your already full plate. Because planning should help you breathe easier—not make you feel behind before the day even starts (something I was notorious for feeling in the past). Intentional Planning for Busy Women...Without the Pressure Spiral Here’s what usually happens: You sit down to “get organized,” open a planner or app, & suddenly feel the need to plan everything . Every task. Every goal. Every life improvement you’ve ever considered since 2012. Cue overwhelm. Cue avoidance. Cue the planner collecting dust. Sound familiar? Intentional planning flips that script. Instead of asking, “How can I do more?”  it asks, “What actually supports me right now?” Sometimes that means: Writing down only three priorities for the day Leaving white space (yes, intentionally blank space counts) Planning rest the same way you plan meetings Accepting that unfinished tasks aren’t failures—they’re information This is planning with compassion, not criticism. Perfection Is Not a Requirement (Repeat That) Busy women don’t need another area of life where we feel like we’re falling short. Intentional planning for busy women recognizes that: Some weeks are productive Some weeks are survival Both still count Missed a day? A week? A whole month? Congratulations—you’re human. Intentional planning welcomes you back without guilt or lectures. You simply turn the page & begin again. No dramatic restart required. Even I have missed days for planning. Some nights I just didn't have it in me to write a thing in my planner. It didn't matter how much I knew I needed to plan, the energy just wasn't there. Human, remember? Organization That Supports Mental Wellness When planning is done intentionally, it becomes a form of self-care. It helps quiet mental clutter, reduces decision fatigue, & gives your brain a safe place to rest instead of holding onto everything . Think of your planner or journal as a gentle guide—not a bossy supervisor. Ask yourself: What do I need more of this season—structure or flexibility? What’s one thing I can plan that would make tomorrow easier? Where can I lower the bar & still move forward? That’s intentional planning. No pressure. No perfection. Just support. The Intentionally Evolve Way At Intentionally Evolve, planning isn’t about becoming a “better” version of yourself—it’s about honoring the woman you already are. The busy one. The evolving one. The one balancing responsibilities while still trying to choose herself. The new year, new me version. You don’t need a perfect plan. You need a realistic  one! And the best part? You’re allowed to change it whenever life changes. 💛

I’m writing this from vacation—barefoot, unhurried, & finally breathing a little deeper. And while I’m supposed to be “off,” I couldn’t stop thinking about you… the woman juggling everything while promising herself she’ll rest later . So let’s talk about a reset—not the dramatic, overhaul-your-life kind, but the gentle kind that actually sticks. The kind built around mental wellness routines for busy women who don’t have time for perfection, but do need peace. Why Busy Women Need a Reset (Not Another To-Do List) 👂🏽 Here’s the truth I keep learning every year (& is super evident when I’m on vacation): burnout doesn’t come from doing too little—it comes from doing too much without support . Mental wellness routines for busy women aren’t about adding more tasks. They’re about creating small anchors throughout your day that help you feel grounded, regulated, & human again. Think: Less “I’ll get to myself later,” “I’m good,” & “Nah, I got it” More “I can support myself right now,” “I deserve to pour into myself,” & “Let me hit this pause button” The Busy Woman Reset: Simple Routines That Actually Work 💯 Take some time to get grounded every morning 1. The Morning Grounding Moment (5 minutes) Before emails, before kids, before the noise—pause. And I mean pretty much as soon as your pretty eyes pop open. One deep breath One intention One question: What do I need today? This is the foundation of sustainable mental wellness routines for busy women—checking in before checking out. That quiet time can work wonders for your mindset, especially when you may not be feeling like rolling out of bed to start adulting. Midday exhaling gives you an extra boost 2. Midday Mental Reset (3–10 minutes) Vacation reminded me that pauses are powerful, no matter how long the pause is. Try: A walk without your phone Writing one honest sentence in your journal Stretching while breathing slowly You don’t need an hour. You need permission . I recently scheduled 3 5-minute breaks during my work day (which force me to snap out of being in the zone & breathe). Those 5 minutes of breathing, moving, & hydrating really does help me be more productive. Serene evenings = serene sleep 3. Evening Release Ritual (5 minutes) For years at night, I’ve been letting the day go instead of replaying it. Otherwise my mind would run for days. If you can relate: Write down what went well Release what didn’t Choose one word or affirmation for tomorrow This routine supports emotional regulation—one of the most overlooked parts of mental wellness. Why Journaling Is the Reset Button 📝 Journaling isn’t about writing beautifully. It’s about being truthful. Think a keep-it-real moment with yourself every day, or talking to the mirror in Snow White. For busy women, journaling becomes a quiet place to land—a space to process, reset, & realign…& IT WORKS! I can attest to it! That’s why mental wellness routines for busy women work best when they’re reflective, flexible, & compassionate—not rigid. From Vacation Me to Real-Life You 😎 Here’s what I know for sure: You don’t need to escape your life to feel better. You need routines that meet you inside it. Let this be your reminder—from a friend who finally slowed down & is determined to keep this same energy through 2026—that your mental wellness deserves daily care, not leftover energy. And when you’re ready, Intentionally Evolve is here to help you build routines that feel supportive, not stressful 💛

The holidays are often framed as a season of joy, togetherness, & celebration. Yet for many women—especially those balancing work, family, & emotional labor—it can feel more like a marathon of obligations than a time of peace. This is where resting through the holidays becomes not just helpful, but necessary. We’re conditioned to believe that doing more creates more meaningful moments. More events. More traditions. More productivity. And honey have I been on the “more” train the last month! But presence doesn’t come from packed schedules—it comes from having the capacity to actually experience what’s happening around you. I’m working on this since I’m a Multitask Queen, & I’m still learning every day… Why Resting Through the Holidays Matters 👆🏽 When your calendar is overflowing, your nervous system rarely gets a chance to settle. Chronic busyness keeps your mind racing ahead to the next task, pulling you out of the present moment. Resting through the holidays allows your body & mind to slow down enough to notice what truly matters: conversations, laughter, stillness, & connection. Rest isn’t laziness. It’s regulation. It’s choosing sustainability over survival mode. Even the Good Lord rested, so who are we to think we don’t need rest? Doing Less Creates More Presence 😌 Presence requires energy. When you’re exhausted, even joyful moments can feel like something to get through rather than something to savor. By doing less, you create space to: Listen without rushing Engage without distraction Feel without overwhelm Resting through the holidays may look like saying no to events that drain you, simplifying traditions, or intentionally scheduling downtime. Each choice to do less is a choice to be more present. I can attest to not really feeling “there” during this holiday season. I was hyped for Thanksgiving (eating without limits makes this my fav holiday), but my energy was almost on E from working so much. I literally went straight from the desk to the parentals’ house. And Christmas…the spirit still hasn’t hit me. There’s always next year… Let Go of Holiday Pressure ✌🏽 Much of holiday stress comes from unspoken expectations—both internal & external. Ask yourself: What actually feels meaningful to me this season? What am I doing out of obligation rather than alignment? Where can I release perfection & choose peace? You’re allowed to redefine what the holidays look like. Resting through the holidays gives you permission to honor your needs without guilt. Although I worked 10 hours yesterday & another 12 today, I rested when I left the desk. But I have all intention to rest during the next holiday: New Year’s Eve/Day aka my anniversary. Gentle Ways to Rest During the Holidays 😊 Rest doesn’t have to mean disengaging completely, even though that’s exactly what I need right about now mentally, physically, & emotionally. It can be woven into your days in small, intentional ways like these that I try to do daily: Start your morning with quiet journaling or reflection Build in buffer time between commitments Create technology-free moments with loved ones End your day with a gratitude or release practice These moments of pause help your body reset & your mind return to the present. A Season to Be, Not Just Do 🎁 At Intentionally Evolve, we believe rest is a form of self-trust. When you allow yourself to slow down, you’re choosing to experience the holidays rather than rush through them. Resting through the holidays isn’t about missing out—it’s about finally being here for it. This season, let doing less be the reason you feel more. Happy holidays, my people!

As the year winds down, messages about doing more, achieving more, & setting bigger goals can feel loud & exhausting. For many busy women, year-end reflection becomes another task on an already full to-do list—one filled with pressure, comparison, & unrealistic expectations. And honey, do I beat myself up every year about what I didn't accomplish instead of looking at all that I did accomplish. As I've continued to develop Intentionally Evolve, I'm starting to realized that year-end reflection should feel supportive, not stressful. It’s not about perfection or productivity—it’s about honoring your lived experience. The fact that you lived the whole 365 days is enough in itself to celebrate because life been out here wildin' the last couple of years! With my end-of-year thinking, I've come up with a few things I need to switch up starting now; things that help to reflect on the year gently, intentionally, & without pressure. Let's go, shall we? Why Year-End Reflection Often Feels Heavy Traditional year-end reflection tends to focus on: What you didn’t accomplish ( #guiltyascharged ) Goals left unfinished (especially since I tend to set about 132 of them like I have that much time, energy, & money to handle so much) Areas where you feel “behind” (comparison is REAL y'all) This approach can trigger guilt, burnout, & self-criticism—especially for women juggling work, family, emotional labor, & personal growth. A gentle year-end reflection shifts the focus from performance to presence, & I'm going to make an effort to go out of 2025 with this frame of mind... Redefining Year-End Reflection A compassionate year-end reflection asks: How did I grow emotionally, mentally, or spiritually? What did I survive that once felt impossible? What boundaries did I learn to set—even imperfectly? Go ahead & dust that journal off, grab a pen, & crack it open to ask yourself these questions. You might see some things that weren't so apparent until you took time to focus on reflecting deeply. We tend to view growth as something very stereotypical: being taller, retiring as a Petty Princess, biting your tongue, etc. Growth doesn’t always look like checked boxes or milestones. Sometimes growth looks like: Resting without guilt Asking for help Letting go of what no longer fits And all of that counts. Annnnnnnnd all are things I need to implement like 7 years ago, but it's never too late to start. I'm sure trying to come back from my vacation in a few weeks as a new creature in Christ (at least mindset-wise because this mouth & pettiness ain't going away overnight). How to Practice Gentle Year-End Reflection Here are a few ways to reflect without pressure (it's journal time!!!): 1. Reflect in Seasons, Not Scores Instead of rating your year, think in seasons: What felt heavy? What brought ease? What lessons quietly stayed with you? 2. Focus on Alignment Over Achievement Ask yourself: When did I feel most like myself this year? What drained me? What nourished me? These insights are far more valuable than a list of accomplishments. It's a way to have a keep-it-real session with yourself, learn from what you discovered, & really grow. 3. Journal Without an Agenda Free-write without trying to “fix” anything. Let your reflection be honest, messy, & real. This is where clarity often shows up naturally, & it's where tools like the Intentional Journal or Soulful Serenity can support reflection without forcing outcomes (and they're 30% off through the end of the month!). #shamelessplug Celebrating Growth—Even If the Year Was Hard Celebration doesn’t require a highlight reel. You can celebrate: Getting through hard days Choosing yourself when it was uncomfortable Showing up imperfectly but consistently Gentle year-end reflection reminds you that you are not behind—you are evolving. Clock that tea, sis! Let Reflection Lead You Forward, Not Push You You don’t need a full plan for the new year right now. Reflection can simply be a pause—a moment to breathe before moving forward. As you close out the year, give yourself permission to: Reflect slowly Rest deeply Enter the next season with intention, not urgency That’s the heart of Intentionally Evolve!

The holiday season is supposed to be magical—twinkling lights, cozy nights, meaningful moments. But let’s be honest: for busy women, it can also feel like chaos wrapped in tinsel. Between family expectations, work deadlines, financial pressure, & emotional labor, it’s no surprise that holiday stress management becomes crucial for keeping your peace intact. At Intentionally Evolve, I believe busy women deserve a season that feels aligned, joyful, & gentle. I mean, isn’t the new thing “living a soft life?” Side note: I think I’m gonna try that for 2026, but right now I’m still a lil roughneck. Here’s how you can create a sense of holiday harmony—without burning out. ⸻ 1 . Set Boundaries Like Your Peace Depends On It (Because It Does!) This is the season when “Can you help with…?” turns into an Olympic sport. Your first line of defense? Clear, compassionate boundaries. The shortest boundary: “NO!” Whether it’s declining an extra event, scaling back gift exchanges, or saying no to last-minute emotional labor, boundaries help you conserve energy & avoid seasonal burnout. And the best part? You don’t owe anyone a dissertation about your decisions. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve improved with my guilt for declining things. I used to beat myself up because I felt bad that I couldn’t do something for/with someone. Now, not nearly as much. I’ll hit myself with an “Aht Aht” real quick & politely decline. Simple boundary script: “Thank you for thinking of me! I’m keeping my schedule light this year to protect my peace.” ⸻ 2. Make Rest a Non-Negotiable Busy women often place themselves last—especially during the holidays. But exhaustion isn’t a requirement of celebration. Build micro-rest into your days: ✨ A 10-minute break ✨ A no-phone hour ✨ A quiet morning ritual ✨ A journaling session with your Intentional Journal Rest helps regulate your nervous system & naturally supports strong holiday stress management. I’m still working on the sleep part of resting, but my morning & nighttime routines aren’t negotiable. They settle me before I begin & end my day. ⸻ 3. Plan Ahead (But Keep It Flexible) Planning reduces mental clutter. Creating a simple weekly plan allows you to see what’s truly essential—& what can wait. Use your Intentionally Evolve journal or planner to: List upcoming events Set realistic goals Reduce overcommitting Block off personal downtime This gives you structure without the pressure of perfection. And honey I CANNOT function without planning unless I’m on vacation. My life just feels like it’s chaotic if I don’t have a feel of what’s “supposed” to happen that day. ⸻ 4. Release the Pressure to Create a “Perfect” Holiday Pinterest-level holiday magic is cute, but not required. Your kids won’t remember if the wrapping paper matched the tree. Your family won’t remember if dinner was store-bought. They will remember the moments you were present. Let the standard be peace, not perfection. Let traditions evolve when needed. Give yourself permission to be human—not a one-woman holiday production team. And remember it’s also ok to break traditions. Hell, I have yet to start any Christmas shopping, That Lil Girl hasn’t given me a PowerPoint presentation this year (& I won’t be reminding her to), & I honestly don’t even care. No guilt zone! ⸻ 5. Lean Into Community Support You don’t have to carry everything alone. Community is a powerful stress buffer, especially during the holidays. Inside Intentionally Evolving Together, our private wellness community, I encourage women to share support, stories, & encouragement—reminding each other that they’re not navigating the season alone. Connection makes the busy season lighter, warmer, & far more manageable. Our group is still developing, but I had big plans for it very soon! ⸻ 6. Journal Through the Chaos Journaling is one of the most effective tools for holiday stress management. It helps you process emotions, release tension, & stay grounded in gratitude instead of overwhelm. Try these holiday-specific prompts: “What do I need more of this season?” “What traditions no longer serve me?” “Where can I protect my peace more intentionally?” “What would a calm holiday look like for me?” Using your Intentional Journal or Soulful Serenity journal keeps your practices consistent & intentional. Every night; you hear me? I bring it out every night to gather my overloaded thoughts & do a brain dump. ⸻ The Bottom Line You deserve a holiday rooted in joy, not exhaustion. Protect your peace, honor your limits, & embrace the support available to you—especially through Intentionally Evolve, Intentionally Evolving Together, & H.E.R.E. Unfiltered (which we have a session this Saturday & on the 27th at 11 am EST… Zoom 204 188 6778 & password = MeTime). This season, choose harmony, not hustle. Choose presence, not pressure. Choose you.

Because evolving alone is overrated Between careers, family, dreams, & endless responsibilities, busy women often feel like they’re giving from an empty cup. You’re balancing everything—but doing it alone can make the load feel even heavier. I think I’m a pro at this; like first round draft pick pro. 😖That’s why community for busy women isn’t just helpful… it’s essential. And it’s exactly what keeps me driven to continue my mission. At Intentionally Evolve, we believe deeply in the power of connection—so much so that we created a private community specifically for women like you: Intentionally Evolving Together, where support, sisterhood, & growth collide. It’s a bit outside of my comfort zone because I’m an introvert, but it’s taught me so much about myself & the women I’ve crossed paths with. Still not sold on the benefits of community? Let’s converse about why you need community just as much as you need self-care… ⸻ Why Community Really Matters for Busy Women 🤔 1. It lowers stress instantly: Nothing hits like hearing someone say, “Girl, same.” Shared experiences ease emotional tension & remind you you’re not alone. There are way more women like you than you think, & many are ones you’d least expect to be so similar. 2. It builds emotional resilience: Being surrounded by women who understand your journey gives you space to process life instead of carrying everything silently. The strength of a woman is unmatched! 3. Accountability becomes encouragement, not pressure: With community, your goals don’t feel like another chore. They become shared milestones. And boy do we hold each other’s feet to the fire in our journaling sessions! 4. You reconnect with the real you: Busy seasons can make you forget your needs, passions, or even your identity. Community brings you back home to yourself. 5. Growth becomes faster—& gentler: When women support each other, evolution happens naturally. Stories, resources, & wisdom become fuel. There’s always something else to learn & something else to teach. This is why community for busy women is a powerful form of self-care, & it’s FREE! ⸻ Inside Intentionally Evolving Together 👀 Our private community, Intentionally Evolving Together, gives busy women a safe space to grow without judgment. Right now, it’s on Facebook, but there are some ideas brewing for a facelift in 2026. I’m thinking things like: ✨ Honest conversations ✨ Goal-setting support ✨ Journaling reflections & sessions ✨ Motivation + accountability ✨ Encouragement through every season ✨ Meet-up events …You catch my drift. It’s real, relatable, & designed for women with full lives who still want to prioritize themselves. ⸻ H.E.R.E. Unfiltered: Your Monthly Moment to Breathe 😮‍💨 To deepen the connection, we host H.E.R.E. Unfiltered, our live journaling sessions held 1–2 times each month. It’s a safe space to express yourself, feel heard, & reciprocate. In each session, we have: 📝 Guided prompts 💬 Honest discussions 🧘‍♀️ A moment to pause 🤝 A chance to connect with other women H.E.R.E. stands for Hope, Exhale, Restore, Empower —& that’s the energy you feel every time we meet. The vibe is always vibing because we know how to mix some seriousness & fun times. These sessions help women release stress, reflect deeply, & strengthen their self-care routines—all within community. In fact, the people have spoken; so we’re hosting 2 sessions this month: December 13th & 17th. ⸻ Why Intentionally Evolve Leads With Connection 👯‍♀️ Self-care is more than face masks & pretty planners. It’s support. It’s community. It’s being seen & understood. It’s intentional (pun intended). Busy women deserve a place to exhale—& that’s the foundation of everything we do. Intentionally Evolving Together gives you the community. H.E.R.E. Unfiltered gives you the connection. Intentionally Evolve gives you the space to grow! ⸻ Final Thoughts You weren’t meant to evolve in isolation. You deserve connection. You deserve support. You deserve community. And now, you have a place to experience all three. If you’re ready to feel seen, supported, & surrounded by like-minded women, join Intentionally Evolving Together on Facebook & subscribe to our newsletter to stay up-to-date on important events. What are you waiting for? Take your next step in evolving—intentionally.

If you’re a busy woman, this time of year probably looks like a beautiful mess—full calendars, family expectations, grocery lists, & the pressure to make the holiday “magical” for everyone else. Hell, I’m somehow going to work all day, go through my normal routine, & make mac & cheese to take to the parentals’ house all before the sun goes down. But Thanksgiving wasn’t created for perfection… it was created for gratitude. And gratitude hits differently when you’re in a season of doing the most. That’s why this Thanksgiving, we’re flipping the script & giving you permission to slow down, savor the moment, & reconnect with what matters most — your peace, your joy, & your evolution. 🍂 Why Gratitude Matters Even More When You’re Busy When life is full, gratitude becomes your grounding force. It helps: ✨ Shift your focus from overwhelm to abundance ✨ Interrupt stress with a moment of presence ✨ Boost mood, energy, & emotional resilience ✨ Reconnect you to yourself when you’ve been in “go mode” Gratitude isn’t one more thing to do — it’s the one thing that softens the chaos. That’s exactly why I started a gratitude practice over a 15 years ago: to remind me of what really matters, no matter how bad I may think things are. 🧡 Simple Gratitude Rituals for Thanksgiving Week My gratitude ritual is part of my journaling routine each night. Before I can close my journal, I make sure I write down at least one thing I was thankful for that day. Sometimes it’s easy, while others it’s super hard, but I’m committed to seeing something positive each day. My ritual is incorporated in Intentional Journals , but that’s not the only way to practice gratitude. Here are quick, calm-creating practices you can do even with the busiest schedule: 1. The “Before You Get Out of the Car” Pause Whether you’re arriving at work, the store, or family dinner, take 10 seconds to breathe & whisper: “I’m grateful for being here, right now.” Tiny moment. Big impact. 2. The 3-Item Kitchen Counter Gratitude List Before you start cooking or prepping, pause & jot down three things you’re grateful for today. Put it on a sticky note. Stick it on the cabinet. Instant grounding. 3. The Gratitude Swap at Dinner Instead of a long “What are you thankful for?” circle (that nobody actually enjoys), make it fun: Everyone shares one good thing from this year—big or small. 4. A Thanksgiving Journaling Moment (5 Minutes) Use these prompts: This year, I grew the most when… One person I’m grateful for & why… One thing I want to release before the year ends… One thing I want to welcome in… 🍁 The Busy Woman’s Permission Slip Read this slowly: You don’t have to host perfectly. You don’t have to run the whole holiday. You deserve rest, softness, & gratitude too. Thanksgiving isn’t about doing—it’s about feeling. And you’ve earned a moment to breathe & receive, even though it may not always feel that way. The power of affirmations can change your mindset quick though. 🧘🏽‍♀️ Self-Care Ideas to Evolve Through the Holiday Check some of my favs out: Light a candle before the day starts (or anytime throughout the day because candles are a vibe in themselves) Take a solo gratitude walk after dinner (kill 2 birds with 1 stone) Sit in your car for 60 seconds before going inside (sometimes it’s A LOT longer than that) Do a nighttime reflection using your journal (our journals have space for thay) Ask for help (yes, actually ask!) Small things. Big energy shift. 💛 Final Thoughts: Gratitude Looks Good on You This holiday, choose presence over perfection. Choose peace over pressure. Choose gratitude — the kind that warms your spirit, not your to-do list. And when you’re ready to take your self-care deeper… Your community at Intentionally Evolve is right here evolving with you.

The holidays are supposed to sparkle—but for many women, they come with long to-do lists, family expectations, endless commitments, & not nearly enough time to breathe. That’s exactly why planning a peaceful holiday season before it starts is an act of radical self-care. The older I get, I’ve learned that peace is something you prepare for, not something you hope for. When you start early, set boundaries, plan intentionally, & listen to your body, the holidays become something you can actually enjoy, as opposed to being stressed out & stretched to the max. Here ’ s how to create a December that serves your well-being—not your overwhelm: 1. Start With a Self-Care Vision (Before the Calendar Fills Up) 🔮 Before RSVPs, menus, shopping lists, & travel plans start flying around, pause & ask yourself: What do I want this holiday season to feel like? What drains me every year? What brings me joy? How do I want to show up for myself & my family? Grab your journal or planner to create a “Holiday Peace Vision Page.” Write down your intentions, energy goals, & the emotional tone you want to carry into the season. This sets the standard for everything else. Like they say “ask & you shall receive” or “closed mouths don’t get fed” (whichever you prefer). 2. Create Your December Flow Instead of Letting the Month Run You 💨 A peaceful holiday season isn’t about perfection—it’s about planning with purpose. What I mean by that is you’re not just flying by the seat of your pants or flailing around aimlessly. You put a lil thought into every move you make. Try breaking December into categories: ✨ Non-negotiables — Rest days, self-care rituals, therapy appointments, quiet mornings ✨ Important moments — Traditions, gatherings that genuinely bring joy ✨ Optional events — Nice to attend but not required ✨ Hard no’s — Anything that drains your peace Seeing your month this way makes decisions & boundaries easier. You become intentional, not impulsive. Mine stays booked out for weeks, but it helps me know in advance if I need to cut back on something to make sure my non-negotiables remain non-negotiable. 3. Protect Your Energy With Early Boundaries  🪬 You don’t need to justify why you’re protecting your peace; you just do it. When I say “protect your peace at all costs," I do mean ALL COSTS! Treat it as if it’s the most valuable thing you have (& in a lot of ways it is). When you protect your energy, it’s best to communicate with the people around you. That communication won’t always be positive for you, & sometimes you have to practice what to say. Try these phrases: “Thank you for thinking of me, but I won’t be able to make it this year.” “I’m keeping December slow & intentional.” “We are simplifying this holiday season for our family’s well-being.” Set your boundaries before the invites come in—so you’re choosing peace, not guilt. 4. Gift-Plan Early—But Thoughtfully  🎁 Start your gift list now to avoid last-minute panic. Keep it simple: Write everyone’s name Identify a meaningful, budget-aligned gift Assign a purchase week Schedule shopping in your planner Or use this idea I got from my boss: each person gets a need, a want, something to read, & something to wear. No PowerPoint presentations for me this year from That Lil Girl! She's limited to those 4 things from her parents this year. Pro tip:  Handwritten notes inside holiday cards can be more memorable than expensive gifts. Put some thought into giving, especially when it comes to the adults who normally say "I don't know what I want." 5. Schedule Built-In Recharge Days 🪫 The holidays drain even the most organized women. Protect your peace by scheduling: At least one intentional rest day per week (I'm still working on a consistent one) A night for journaling & reflection (or you could do it nightly like I do) A slow morning with no obligations (Monday-Friday for me as long as nothing comes up) A “do not disturb” window for yourself (hello automatic nighttime setting MANDATORY) When you schedule rest like you schedule errands, you stop treating your needs as optional. And if your needs are optional, there's room to think that you're optional as well. Well honey, you're not an option! 6. Commit to Simple Daily Self-Care Rituals  🧘🏽‍♀️ A peaceful season doesn’t require elaborate routines. Instead, try: A 10-minute morning/night journaling session A calming holiday playlist during your drive Stretching before bed Drinking water between holiday treats Writing one thing you’re grateful for every night It’s the small, consistent self-care acts that keep your energy grounded. 7. Reflect Weekly to Stay Centered 🤔 Every Sunday (or whatever day is your reset), reflect on: What drained me this week? What brought me joy? What needs to change next week? What can I let go of? Where can I add more joy or rest? Your journal becomes a “peace tracker” that helps you stay aligned with your intentions. When you look back on where you came from, you might be a bit amazed. 8. Give Yourself Permission to Simplify Everything ✂️ You don’t have to: Do all the traditions Attend all the events Host everything Bake everything from scratch (Who really has time for this?) Say yes to everything asked of you You are allowed to simplify, scale down, say no, & choose ease. That is not laziness—that is leadership of your life. Plan this season & journal to maintain mental wellness ✨  In the End…   Creating a peaceful holiday season starts long before December arrives. When you plan early, protect your energy, & prioritize self-care, you don’t just survive the holidays—you evolve through them. This year, choose peace on purpose. Choose yourself. Choose a holiday that honors your mental & emotional well-being. Intentionally Evolve is here to support every step—with journals, planners, self-care tools, & community designed to help you thrive, not just hustle.

In our culture of constant doing, hustle often wears the crown. But what if the real power lies not in the grind—but in the gentle space of gratitude? As I get older, I’m starting to believe in grace over grind . That’s why we’re inviting you into a thankfulness practice: a way of living that honors your busy-life rhythm while anchoring in what truly matters. Why Thankfulness Practice Matters 🙏🏾 Research shows that gratitude isn’t just feel-good—it’s a brain-shifting habit. When we lean into a thankfulness practice, we open the door to greater self-awareness, resilience, & connection. Instead of viewing self-care as another task on the to-do list, the thankfulness lens lets us receive what’s already present—breath, body, community—& rest in that reality before moving again. I definitely take my self-care seriously & understand even the smallest bit of it is a blessing…so why not share some tips with my people? From Grind to Grace: 5 Gentle Shifts 🤚🏾 1. Pause & Breathe Before Doing : Instead of diving straight into your tasks, take 60 seconds. Identify one thing you’re genuinely grateful for—& let that sense of thankfulness root you into presence. We tend to get so caught up in hustle that we don’t even realize we’re not really living & breathing. A lil bit of grounding never hurt anybody! 2. Thank-List Over To-Do List: At the start or end of your day, write 3–5 simple items you’re thankful for. This small ritual builds your thankfulness practice & frames your mindset before you move into productivity. It’s something I started doing when I started journaling. Making myself state at least one thing I’m grateful for even on the worst days is sometimes exactly what’s needed to close the day out in a better frame of mind. 3. Link Gratitude to Action: Instead of thinking “I have to hustle,” ask: “What in my life am I grateful for—& how can I serve from that place?” Shifting from for to from creates a different energy. There’s just something super satisfying about being able to pour into someone else. After all, isn’t that one of the things Christians are supposed to do (yet so many don’t put into action)? 4. Celebrate Micro-Wins: The grind loves big milestones. The grace path honors the small wins: finishing a self-care check-in, sending a kind text, journaling a sentence. These feed your thankfulness practice & keep you grounded. Checking off something I accomplished during that day is enough to motivate me to “just keep swimming.” 🐠 5. Embed Community in Your Practice: Tell someone what you’re thankful for. Share a gratitude prompt in your community circle. The ripple effect of a thankfulness practice is deeper connection—which fuels our mission at Intentionally Evolve. I’m definitely grateful for all of the lives we’ve been able to touch by promoting self-care & mental wellness. Sharing is caring! Why This Works for Busy Women As a busy woman juggling roles, responsibilities, self-care goals, & Lord knows what else, it’s easy to default to grind. A thankfulness practice invites you to reset the internal narrative: you’re not just doing more—you’re aligning & thriving. It gives you permission to slow down, lean in, & still move forward—just from a deeper place of purpose, not pressure. Following through on this mindset reset is a daily thing for me. Hustle is just in my blood. Shout out to the parentals for instilling that fire that my sisters & I possess! Even retired & in their 70’s, those two stay on the go. It’s built a solid foundation for the four of us to pass down to our kids. #TheMilesWay Practical Journal Prompt ✍🏾 In true Intentionally Evolve fashion, why wouldn’t I encourage you to stretch your brain & unpack a bit? Grab your journal & let’s put this thankfulness practice to work. In your next journal session, write the prompt: “What I’m grateful for today—& how that gratitude invites me to act with grace.” Then ask: “What small step can I take tomorrow that honors this gratitude?” This reinforces your thankfulness practice & ties it to your action path. There’s no use in learning new things if you’re not gonna use them. And besides, practicing gratitude changes your mindset, & it’s free to do! At Intentionally Evolve, we believe that when you prioritize thankfulness practice over relentless grind, you unlock more than productivity—you unlock purpose, alignment, & peace. Be kind to your pace. Be generous with your gratitude. Choose grace.