“Let us fill the sky with the light of a brilliant, brilliant billion of stars.” ✨ ~Kamala Harris
being exactly who we are (#393)
I’ve been doing tons of reflecting over the last few days, and I think it’s time for a heart-to-heart about who I am and what I stand for.
I am a 43-year-old Black woman in Chicago, juggling caregiving for my grandmother with a full-time job and a business. I’m an aunt, a sister, a daughter, a friend, and all the other hats I wear. These identities shape my perspective, my experiences, and the lessons I share with you.
This week’s election reminded me of some hard truths. People have shown us who they are for a second time. It’s time to believe them.
Would it have been absolutely incredible to have someone who looks like me as the president of this country? Heck yes! Representation matters so much.
But the world isn’t ready.
Black women have to work twice as hard to get half as much. Most of the time, people love us until, in their eyes, we rise above what they see as our ceiling. So yes, I’m disappointed. Yes, I’m angry. Yes, I’m afraid.
But, this is not an ending. It wasn’t an ending in 2016 and it won’t be an ending now. This is merely the beginning. Now, more than ever, it’s important for us to check in on our capacity, take breaks when we need to, cry, scream, sleep. And then, when we are ready, we can rise.
For me, I’m still processing and coming to terms with all of my feelings and plans for the future. But one thing I want to share that I’m focusing on is what is in my control. And one thing that I control is how I show up for you.
My mission remains clear, now more than ever. I’m here to help folks build meaningful side hustles. But I do it my way, which means:
Believing you don’t have to quit your job to be an entrepreneur
Supporting the choice to keep your side hustle a side hustle
Rejecting “team no sleep” and other aspects of hustle culture
Encouraging the power of baby steps and 15-minute work sessions
Emphasizing the importance of self-care and prioritizing your joy during this journey
I share this because I want you to know exactly who you’re learning from. My stories, experiences, and lessons come from this place - who I am, where I am, what I’ve learned.
If this doesn’t resonate with you, I completely understand. Please unsubscribe. I’m not for everyone, and that’s okay.
But if you’re still here? If this speaks to you? Then, you got yourself a partner to help you build a side hustle that brings you money and fulfillment.
Let’s build a business that fits your life, not the other way around.
Here’s to being exactly who we are.
On to the picks!
P.S. I’d love to hear how you are taking care of yourself during this time. Drop me a note if you’d like to share. 💞
P.P.S. Do you want to start a meaningful side hustle or need help managing it alongside everything else? I’m doing a few 30-minute calls to hear about your experience. No pitches; just looking to learn from you! If you’re interested, schedule a time here.
Note: This email may contain affiliate links. If you click through my link and make a purchase, I may receive “thank you money” at no additional cost. I only recommend products that I use and love.
#sponsored
10 Amazon Prime Perks You Need to Be Using
Are you taking advantage of your Amazon Prime perks? Whether you’re already a Prime member or considering signing up, here are 10 Prime member benefits you should be using!
#love 😍
🎧. Listening: Unapologetically Taking a Break. My gurl Marlene shared this powerful episode with me at exactly the right time. She talks about getting back in bed when she hit empty - no explanation, no apology. It was eye-opening to realize how often we push ourselves to exhaustion helping others, only to find that same energy isn’t always reciprocated. If you’ve also been running on “E” lately (and who hasn’t, tbh?), this might be the permission slip you need to put yourself first. Sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is rest.
#read
30 One-Sentence Mindset Tips for Side Hustlers
This is one of my favorite posts to have written, and it includes 30 mindset reminders I’ve learned during my side hustle journey. A few that feel especially relevant right now.
Not everyone wants or needs to become a full-time entrepreneur (this is my jam!)
Even when there is no applause, folks are watching you and being inspired – keep going.
Baby steps are key (because slow progress is still progress)
When you struggle to work on your business, reconnect to your why.
These tips are perfect to write on a Post-it note and use when you need a little pep talk. Which one resonates most with you?
#icymi
😍. Last issue’s top pick: Meditations for Women Who Do Too Much.
🧘🏾♀️. Join me at the FutureU Self-Care Summit on January 7th in Chicago! It’s a one-day event focused on helping you step into the new year with clarity, confidence, and a self-care plan. I’m talking about side hustling without burning out. Early bird tickets available until Nov. 15th!
#classifieds 🗞
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#lifevibes
#supporters ☕️
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