It's Officially Fall!! Time To Go Shopping
Published 10/24/2019 by Shev
Fall is absolutely my favorite time of year! There is something about the changing color of the leaves and the smell of sweet cinnamon pumpkin that sets my senses ablaze!! Not to mention (clears throat) #scorpioseason In my DJ Khaled voice “We the best”!! (LOL)
Even more than the sights, sounds, and celebrations the fall season brings, it also allows me to exercise one of my most loved past-times…SHOPPING!! Now I know that seems pretty typical for a woman to say however semi colon dot com (see what I did there), much like a fresh haircut or trim or even the dawning of a new day, Fall represents a time of refreshing. Yes, summer is okay but Fall is for the dressers baby!! I’ve included some of my fall favs! Take a look and let me know what you think! Also share some of your fall must haves with me! HAPPY SHOPPING!!
My 35th Birthday!!
Published 10/30/2019 by Shev
I’m still in disbelief that I turned 35 almost one week ago today. I am happy and extremely excited for all that will transpire in this new year of life! Last Thursday, I sat still, and for the first time in a long time, I wept. Not because I was sad, but simply in awe! I remember being told I wouldn’t live to see 21, so reaching this age is indeed a blessing!! In the months leading up to the day, I’ve had dreams and visions of things to come. God has spoken clearly regarding steps I must take, people and places I had to let go of and strategy to proceed with the things He has called me to do. Alignment ya’ll!! Sometimes we don’t understand why things happened the way they did or why this person was removed but I promise its all for a greater good.
A scripture that has been both prevalent and profound in this season of my life is Jeremiah 29:11!! It says, “For I know the plans I have for you says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Yes, I know, this is a familiar passage but I can truly say I have a greater understanding was released regarding this scripture and my life the past 5-6 months.
I have included a few pics from my birthday festivities this year. Take a peek below! Before I end my post for this week, I feel led to leave this prayer. This is for anyone who may be in a season they don’t quite understand. It’s uncomfortable, I know, I’ve been there but even in the midst of what you are feeling and even what may be surrounding you, I admonish you to seek the face of the Father! He has the answer to any question we could ask or think. All He desires is open/honest dialogue with you.
Father we thank You! We thank You for the gift of life! We thank You just for being God! Father I pray for every person who will read this post be it today, tomorrow, or even months/years from now. I pray that you will prick their hearts even now Father that they will desire to be in true relationship with You. For every person in a season of uncertainty, about their life, about their career, whatever it may be, I pray your word over them now Father. Remind them that You have a plan and a purpose for them. To give them a future and a hope! I pray that you would open their hearts to receive from you Father, direction and instruction on the path they should take. I pray every dry bone be revived in the name of Jesus, remove all blockages that would prevent you from flowing thru Your people freely in the name of Jesus! I command every spirit not like You Father to leave now in the name of Jesus! You will get the glory out of our lives! We will be all that you have called us to be!! We submit to Your power and authority now. We surrender again!! Have your way in our hearts, our minds and our lives! Thank you in advance Father! I seal this prayer in the matchless name of of Jesus Christ our Lord and our Savior!! Amen.
I love you all!!
xoxo Shev
Self Care Saturday
Hey Girl (and Guys)! Let’s talk about self care…We’ve all heard this term and more so recently. Everyone is talking about it! Now while this doesn’t apply to every situation, the buzz around this topic is definitely needed. So, what is self care exactly? I’m so glad you asked suga (lol) Self care is any activity performed to take care of our mental, emotional and physical health. This means it could look very different for each of us. Self care for me consist of my phone on Do Not Disturb, D.I.Y mani/pedis, a face mask, my favorite wine, a good book…you get the picture! Sweatpants (well leggings), hair tied, chilling with no makeup on type of situation!!
Today I challenge you to set aside some time to perform your very own self care routine. Check out the accompanying YouTube video to see mine in action and get an idea or two for your self! You owe it to yourself and everyone you love to be healthy, happy, and whole!! The decision to do so begins with you!!
Happy Relaxation!!!
xoxo Shev
Let's Talk Travel!
Published 11/06/2019 by Shev
So, this week I sat down with a few of my favorite people to discuss some goals for both the end of this year, as well as next year. One topic that surfaced in every conversation was, you guessed it, TRAVEL!!
Travel is a billion dollar industry and I am so thrilled to be a part! While folks use to splurge on name brands or partying like rockstars every weekend, they are now choosing to save up for travel experiences they won’t soon forget!
Travel gives us the opportunity to explore new cultures, meet new people and provides relaxation, recharge and renewal when planned properly. There is no one way to travel, you do what works for you and your budget! Some believe its only “real” travel if you are leaving the country however stay-cations have become increasingly popular in recent years. I don’t know about you, but I love a good road trip! Just me and my boo or bestie, my good vibes playlist, and some snacks! I promise you there is nothing like it!! There are some hidden gems to be discovered in domestic travels!!
What are some of your favorite places to visit? I would love to hear from you!! Domestically mine would be: NOLA, L.A, and Vegas in that order. Internationally, UAE, Turks and Caicos and Jamaica respectively.
What does your dream vacation look like? Who would you take? Are you staying in the U.S or traveling abroad? Feel free to be as detailed as you desire and check out the video above to get some destination ideas!
Oh, before I go, don’t forget to check out Fantasy Elite Adventures for all your travel needs!! (shameless plug) 🙂 See link below!!
Have an amazing rest of the week! I love you ALL!!
xoxo Shev
Mission: Defeat Depression!
Published 11/13/19 by Shev
So, we are switching gears a little today. I have tried to avoid this for a while but I feel this is the time and definitely the space..so here goes…Depression!
I have been “clinically depressed” for about 6 years now. I’ve seen counselors, taken medications, prayed, cried, talked to trusted ears, you name it, I’ve done it. Often times I suffer silently for fear of judgement or ridicule. The closest person to me doesn’t even know this information I’m sharing today. Every week, I seek the Father on what He will have me to discuss and when this was revealed, ya’ll I cried. I literally laid in my bed for a full day because I did not want to unveil my secret or take off my mask; however we overcome by the words of our testimony and this is mine. I’m prepared for any backlash that may come as a result of me speaking my truth.
For years, I have walked around smiling, encouraging, laughing, joking, etc, when all along I was a broken, hurting, self-harming, hot mess! I remember sitting in church services praying God would not reveal my heart and true intentions to go home and harm myself to stop the pain and utter turmoil taking place in my mind. Maybe you’re asking yourself, why reveal any of this? Why now? Why, because it’s past time. Why now? I finally have the strength to do so. I don’t care about what others may think or say. I now know I possess the authority to defeat this demon once and for all. It has caused me to destroy my self confidence, made me socially awkward, and I’ve even damaged/sabotaged relationships. No more! No more will this thing control me, my actions, or emotions!
Today, November 13, 2019, I DEFEAT DEPRESSION! I stomp on its ugly head. I am strong, I am loved, I am enough and I can do anything I put my hands to! I declare all this and more in the mighty name of Jesus Christ!
For anyone who may be battling this, please know you are not alone! You have the power and authority to also defeat depression! Choose you! Take your life back today! You are strong, you are powerful, you are loved, you are enough!! Please continue to fight! There is so much more on the other side of this thing!!!
I want to include a few practical steps that have helped me along the way as well as some resources to anyone who may need them. Don’t fight alone!
- First, always first is pray! Literally pray like your life depends on it, because it does!
- Don’t try to hold everything in. If you have trusted friends/family members, open up to them. If you don’t have those you feel you can trust, ask God to send your tribe. Your trusted group of people who love and support you as well as hold you accountable. S/N: No matter how much you say “no new friends” or don’t need anyone, truth is, we all need someone. Yes we have God and He’s dope, but we need that human companionship too! God made us relational for a reason 🙂
- As a follow up to #2, while our family and friends are great, I also suggest a good counselor/therapist. This resource is invaluable. Sugafoot let me tell you, it’s something about those couches that just signal release! It sounds crazy but I’m so serious! Don’t take my word for it, try it for yourself! If everyone sat with a therapist, there would be many more healed, whole adults instead of broken children in adult bodies. Now that’s not a dig but I am a avid advocate for therapy. *Steps off soap box*
I also want to leave these numbers with you:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline- 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
National Alliance on Mental Illness- 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)
Anxiety & Depression Association of America- 1-240-485-1001
Erika’s Lighthouse- this one is specially for teenagers- 847-386-6481
If you ever need to talk, my inbox is wide open: shevspeaks@gmail.com
I love you all so very much!!
MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!!
xoxo Shev J.
Check-In Pre Holiday
Published 11/26/19 by Shev
What’s up everyone?! I missed you guys last week, but I’m back!! I’m actually on the road but one of the perks of both entrepreneurship and blogging is that I can work from and post from anywhere!
I’m starting a series entitled “The Entrepreneur Diary”. Basically, I will be sharing my experiences thus far; the good, the bad and the ugly. Since this is a holiday week (for those who celebrate), I will hold off on the series and I also plan to share some footage from my current adventure with you all. I pray each of you has an amazing day with family, friends and good food!! I know I plan too 😊
xoxo Shev
It Was All Good Just A Week Ago...
DISCLAIMER: Hey Ya’ll! As promised, we begin the 3 part series entitled The Entrpreneur Diary!! I apologize for the delay but I enjoy being present during my travels and not glued to my phone, iPad or laptop soooo here we go!! I’m excited to share with you all!! Enjoy!!!
Published 12/07/2019 by Shev
Everywhere we look and everyone we know is starting a business. As a serial entrepreneur myself, I get it. I believe everyone needs and should have multiple streams of income. Long gone are the days when one income will make ends meet and sissss that man, you know the one I’m talking about 👀 is NOT your financial plan! Refer to the meme above! [Additional disclaimers, I am in no way coming down or coming for anyone however semi-colon dot come..truth is truth and if your toes hurt, just ice those babies and don’t get caught in the same place next time sugas] Throughout this series I will offer some tools I’ve used to maintain productivity and advice for anyone who is struggling with taking the leap into entrepreneurship.
My full time entrepreneurial journey began January 23, 2019. Was that intended? Absolutely not! My quit day looked more like May or June 2019, carefully planned out, money in the bank, two weeks notice type of vibe. However when God says move, you do just that!! In typical Shev fashion, I wept the entire drive to work because I have to activate the faith I proclaim to have. I know that I am no longer in control and I have to fully rely and depend on God. I say all of that to say, no matter how many songs we sing or prayers we pray, trusting God 100% is not easy when you’re not used to being able to depend on anyone but yourself. Yes God is not like man, yes we can and should trust Him, but it doesn’t make it any easier to do, let’s be real! On this day, I walked away from everything I knew…my cushy lifestyle, a steady paycheck and benefits. Once I pressed submit on my resignation email at approximately 5:05 pm, I felt a sense of relief, I can’t fully explain the feeling. I had no idea what the next 10 months would look like…to be continued
Entry #2 coming this Wednesday December 11, 2019
Untitled; The Story Continues
Published 12/11/2019 by Shev
Welcome back to The Entrepreneur Diary. This is 2nd installment into my first year as a full time entrepreneur. Today, I want to share an excerpt from my actual diary. I am so grateful I’ve been able to document a huge part of my growth and journey thus far. My story is a bit different from the traditional. I actually walked away not knowing what I was to do next. I had and still have hundreds of ideas and I’m sure they all will come to pass but only at the appropriate time. Keeping a journal has been absolutely crucial for me. Being able to go back and read of previous wins and lessons (because we never lose), has been a game changer. There are days I truly can’t see progress but as I read, I am able to bring myself back into sobriety. This is a tool not only for business owners but for anyone and everyone. Journaling is a way to keep track of thoughts and feelings, wins and lessons and memories overall. As I mentioned in the previous post (if you haven’t read it, go back and do so), January of this year I walked away from my job. I had little to no money saved and I didn’t know exactly what I was to do. All I knew was that I was obeying the voice of God. Here is an excerpt from my first day:
The Day After
“I wake up around 8 am, I’m in an unfamiliar place mentally. While I thought I would be over the moon excited, that’s suddenly not what I feel. Here come my old friends fear and doubt but once again “Trust Me”. I roll out of bed and I hear “just thank Me”. I begin to thank God and I’m led to lay before God. As I’m laying prostrate before God, I notice my posture begins to change. The best way I can explain it is a lion cub discovering their roar for the first time. The lion has been released and while everyday won’t be peaches and cream and some days I will want to give up, I can’t! I’m open to this journey, solely depending on God! God I trust You and You alone have my full attention.
Welcome to the ride!
xoxo”
This was recorded just 24 hours after resignations but it is indeed a reflection of what my year has looked like. I don’t desire to only share the good moments of 2019 with you all, there has been some extremely dark days. I desire to create a community where we can be real with each other. “No today wasn’t a good day”, “no I haven’t hit my income goals for the month let alone this week”. Often times we are deceived as most people only share their wins and not lessons. Something I do from time to time is a social media break. This is extremely helpful especially when you are in moments where you find yourself in comparison with others and their journey. No worries, it happens to the best of us but the key is not to stay there.
My baby sister shared there words with me and now I share them with you, ” you aren’t always going to be motivated, this is why you must be disciplined”! Ya’ll there are some days I want to say to hell with all of this but I remember why I started and who I do this for. It’s not about me, I didn’t do this for fame or fortune but simple out of obedience to God. He gets the glory!!
This wraps up Entry #2. I appreciate all of your continued support and pray you all have an amazing rest of the week!
xoxo Shev J.
Confidently Lost...2019 (The Remix)
Wednesday January 29, 2020
Hey Ya’ll!! Long time no see!! The title somewhat explains, I guess but not really. I last posted in December and since then I’ve been in a whirlwind. Not everything has been bad though. A lot of things to process, to many emotions to count or even name, but here we are! I don’t know about anyone else but for me, these first few days of 2020 have felt like the remix to 2019. Now I’m not one to “new year, new me” or even believe that something magical happens at the start of a new calendar year however semi-colon dot com, I have been fighting fiercely yet hanging tough since 1/1.
I recorded this video last Friday. I had every intent to post it. I ultimately decided not to as my “Forest Whitaker” was in full effect and there is something on my nose..smh. This is what I get for recording from my phone mount while on the road I suppose but I’ve since changed my mind. I’m not always camera ready but I’m me always! I’m sharing this video because the message is real. It is me raw and uncut and I’m sure someone can and will relate. I can’t promise I will get back to a regular posting schedule right away but I do promise to come back and soon! For those who still rock with me, I appreciate you and for those who don’t I appreciate you too!!
xoxo Shev J.
Veni Vidi Vici...Happy New Year!!
Sunday February 16, 2020
Heyyyyy Sugas!!! Happy New Year!! Welcome to 2020!! I don’t know about ya’ll but my 2020 began February 1st!! How are things so far? Great I hope! I know I am extremely late with this one but better late than never right?! So let’s recap a little, January 23, 2020 marked my first year as a full time entrepreneur and it has truly been an adventure!! I’m always asked what I think about working for myself and I’ve contemplated my answer for some time. I am a music lover and this is honestly what came to mind, “I’ve had some good days, I’ve had some hills to climb, I’ve had some weary days and some sleepless nights; but when I look around, and I think things over, all of my good days, outweigh my bad days, and I won’t complain”!! Although I have legit questioned my sanity throughout this process, I realize when everything is happening all at once and I feel as if I can’t catch a break or a breath, I’m being pushed into purpose. All things are working to launch me into my destiny!!
My top 3 tips for anyone considering full time entrpreneurship:
- SAVE, SAVE, & SAVE some more! Ever heard the catch phrase “you have to spend money to make money”? This is going to be true in almost every industry. Entrepreneurship comes with its own set of frustrations, don’t let finances or the lack of, be one of them. Your monthly bills do not stop just because your weekly/bi-weekly paycheck did. Write out your monthly expenses and be realistic. If you know you eat at Chic fil A weekly and can’t be without your mani/pedi every two weeks, include it in your expenses. Now these things are considered luxuries and they can and should be contained but you know you better than any one else. Be realistic! Your nest egg should consist of a minimum of 6 months of expenses.
- Be willing to invest in your craft. This is self explanatory! Connect with others in your industry, the OG’s if you will. From my experience this can be both intimidating and in some instances disheartening as some aren’t as willing to advise someone up and coming. Don’t let this stop you! Find networking events, meetups, etc in your area. Depending on where that is, you may have to travel a little to attend but be willing to be a weekend warrior for your business! Connect with like minded individuals in your area and you could possibly carpool to events that require a commute. You could even collectively start something in your area for entrepreneurs and creatives alike! Take that course, attend that seminar or mixer!! You will be your first advocate for your business!
- This one doesn’t really need a number as I feel it goes without mention. It should come way before anything else but PRAY!! Seek the Father concerning any and all things. Allow Him to truly order your steps. If this move is really for you, why not let Him orchestrate it and in His timing, not yours! Just my 2 cents!!
Bonus Point- If your 1st, 2nd or 3rd idea didn’t work and you need to return back to a corporate position, it does not mean you have failed. Do what you must to continue to provide for you and your family but NEVER give up on your dreams! Allow your 9-5 to fund your dream!!
I hope you all have an amazing week! I love you endlessly!!
xoxo Shev J.
Blog Updates-Coming Soon
Hello, hello, hello!! It has been far to long. An entire year has passed and I completely fell off with the blog but I am since inspired and ready to pick up where I left off…well not exactly!! LOL Sooooooo much has changed in my world since we last spoke but I will update you all in future posts. I hope you all are as excited to read as I am to share!! The story continues…
Ci!!! Thank you sooooo much!! It is indeed a challenge sometimes being vulnerable but I’m all in now (lol) I appreciate your support!!
Jadaia!!! Thank you so much!! I absolutely love doing this, it is indeed my safe space and I am honored that I get to share and that I have amazing people like you supporting me! I appreciate you Suga!!
Lady J!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!! You have been a part of my life for over 15 years now..we aren’t old, we just started young (lol) I love you so very much and appreciate your support!
Clarenisha!!! Thank you for your continued love, support, encouragement, rebuke, allat!!! (lol) I love you endlessly ❤️ God gets the glory for all He is doing!!
I just say and read every single blog post. I just couldn’t stop reading!!!! Thank you for sharing your triumphs, your heart, your passions and your goals with us. I’m both encouraged and inspired!!! Keep going! We need your VOICE!
Shev, I love your content! It’s so authentic and I can tell you truly find joy in sharing not only your thoughts, but things that God put in your heart to share with others. I can’t wait to see what other amazing things God has in store for you and how incredible your journey will be. I’m rooting for you girl!
You are amazing my Shevie!!! I’m so happy you are becoming exactly who God predestined you to be. Even with all the detours and side roads, it led you right to where you were always destined to be. Love you my Joibells. Keep ringing boo.💜
Wow, I am utterly AMAZED at your courage to step out and do what God has called you to do! I can’t tell you how much I appreciate your vulnerability and how proud I am of you for speaking out on an issue that silences the voice of many! The impact you are going to make in the lives of others in the name of Jesus will be beyond remarkable!!!!! Thank you so much for sharing!!!!!
Thank you for your support and comment Tamiko!! I agree with you, when the good vibes flow, epic-ness happens!! I loveeee to travel! As a matter of fact, I keep a suitcase packed just in case (lol)
Clarenisha, thank you so much for rocking with me from idea to launch! Your support means the world to me!! I love the Caribbean!! Your depiction has me in a daydream of my own!! I can’t wait to go with my best friend!! 🙂
Thank you Alyssia! I appreciate your support! xoxo Shev
Travel travel travel!!! I love this topic. Traveling is definitely good when you can get with a group of good people whether a long trip or short, good company and vibes are key!!
I love love love your blog and look forward to reading it every week! So to answer your question, my dream vacation would honestly have to be in the Caribbean! I just love the culture there so much and I always seem to imagine myself there gazing upon the clear blue water, soaking in the sun and enjoying the breeze, while enjoying listening to the local music vibes! I would love to start in Trinidad and Tobago of course! I would definitely take my best friend with me.
Dope Content! Keep up the great work!