“I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.” 🏅~Robert Frost

A medal, a mindset shift, and a reminder that your way is the right way. (#410)

Last week, I shared my plan to tackle the Shamrock Shuffle 2-mile walk. Well, I’m happy to report: I DID IT! 🥳 And I loved every step.

The Chicago skyline and lakefront were the perfect backdrop as I joined tens of thousands of others, decked out in green, all chasing their own version of success. There’s something truly special about being part of that energy – runners, walkers, everyone moving forward together.

As I crossed the finish line, arms held high, I felt something bigger than just finishing a race. It was validation.

• That my “different approach” was just as valid.

• That finishing is what matters - not how fast you get there.

• That this was worth celebrating.

That shiny medal around my neck? It doesn’t say, “Congrats on walking instead of running.” It says, Finisher. Because that’s what I am. 💪🏾

Here’s the thing…no one cared that I walked. The volunteers still cheered. The finish line still welcomed me. The celebration still felt just as sweet.

And isn’t it the same with side hustles?

💡 Success is personal. It looks different for everyone.

Just like there’s more than one way to finish a race, there’s more than one way to build a business. Your path doesn’t have to look like everyone else’s.

🏁 Milestones matter.

Completing this walk is giving me the confidence and momentum to keep going. Next up, summer 5K (I’m eyeing this one - have you done it?) What’s a small win in your business that could build momentum toward your next big goal?

🤝🏾 Support makes the journey better.

Having my sister do the walk with me along with the energy from other participants kept me going, even when my legs started aching. Who’s in your corner, cheering you on? (me 🙋🏾‍♀️)

Now I’m curious…

Have you ever done something that seemed small to others but felt huge to you? Or have you ever found your own way when the “rules” didn’t work for you?

On to the picks! ✨

P.S. Finishing matters more than how fast you get there. Some days, your moves might feel slow, but that consistent progress will take you further than you think. Keep going. 🚶🏾‍♀️✨

---

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 to you. I only recommend products that I use and love.

---

#picks 😍

• 🍎. Snow White. I know there’s been a lot of controversy, but I ignored the noise and just went in hoping to be entertained. And I enjoyed it! The story had its own charm, and I even walked away with a new addition to the Side Hustla! playlist: Whistle While You Work (because, let’s be real, we could all use that kind of energy). Also, I’m convinced Gal Gadot really enjoyed playing the villain, and my mom and I both agreed that we need her entire wardrobe, please, and thank you. If you’ve seen it, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Did it surprise you?
  

• 🥣. 19 Tiny Ways I Reduce Decision Fatigue. We make so many decisions every day, and if you’re also making them for others, it’s exhausting! These tips are so relatable especially if you’re making decisions for others, too.

  • One of my favorite takeaways? Keeping breakfast simple. I’m all about my current cereal obsession and Daily Nutri-Greens powder.

  • I also stick to a set routine. Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, I work from a coworking space; Wednesdays and Fridays are my home office days.

  • How do you reduce decision fatigue? Any must-try tips?
    

• Every small step counts.

---

#icymi

• 😍. Last issue’s top pick: Two Ridiculously Tiny Habits That Completely Changed My Life

“Do not go where the path may lead…” 🚶🏾‍♀️✨

• 🌱 Side Hustle Idea Kickstart: Stuck on what business to start? This mini-course gives you six bite-sized lessons plus personal feedback from me!

---

#classifieds 🗞

• Feeling overwhelmed with side hustle ideas? Try this quick exercise: speak your thoughts into Voicenotes. It transcribes everything and helps organize ideas for when you’re ready to create. I used it for this week’s intro!
  

• Wish marketing felt less awkward? Discover how to grow your audience and connect with them in a fun, authentic way that matches your personality. Works at any stage of your side hustle journey.
  

• “I wish I could remember all the great things I read...“ Readwise collects your book and article highlights in one place and brings them back to you in daily emails.

  (like these ads? get yours here)

---

#lifevibes

---

#supporters ☕️

Thank you, Kelly, Melinda, Tawanna, Gia, Lori, Ayana, Krista, Jessica, Annetta, Constance, Tunde, Jen, Michelle, Emile, Bex, Kim, Angela G., Lauren B., Chelsea, Amy, Ricky, Kirsten, Vin, Julie, Nicole, Hmza, Greg, Kristin, Kirstyn, Jess, Cheryl, Krysta, Adrena, Vidya, Kristyn, Danielle, Keyn, Terry, Vanessa, Meredith, Lauren, Meg, Maria J., Chivon, Kim, Luciano, Colie, Chasity, Laurie, Latienda, Collette, Anne, Kristen, Liz, Katherine, Monale, Betsy, Melissa, Lindsay, Jennifer, Kayla, Madison, Rae, Stephanie, Christine R., Christine M., Frances, Hannah, Chris, Brandy, Mea, Kristian, Maria K., Avery, Adam, Barbara, Shenee, Desiree, Lisa, Kandice, L’Oreal, and LaVerne for being #jesspicks supporters!! ❤️

Found this content helpful?