When asked, “What skill would you like to learn?” many think of learning something new or improving a craft. For me, the skill I truly want to master is embracing stillness.
As someone who is always on the move—mentally and physically—learning to be still feels like a challenge. Yet, I’ve come to realize how essential stillness is for mental clarity and inner peace. In a world that constantly demands productivity, the ability to pause and just be is something I want to cultivate.
Why stillness? It’s in these quiet moments where we can reflect, breathe, and reconnect with ourselves. Through stillness, I hope to gain more self-awareness, be present with my loved ones, and create space for peace in the midst of chaos.
While it’s not always easy to embrace, I know that learning to be still will lead to a more balanced and fulfilling life. For me, this isn’t just about resting—stillness is a form of self-care, and it’s a skill worth mastering.
What details of your life could you pay more attention to?
In the rush of everyday life, it’s easy to get caught up in the big tasks and overlook the little details that make life meaningful. Recently, I’ve been reflecting on what parts of my life I could pay more attention to. While I’ve made progress this year, becoming more mindful and present, I’ve realized there’s still room for growth.
The Power of Being Present
One of the biggest things I’ve learned is how important it is to be present. Whether it’s a heartfelt conversation with a loved one, or simply enjoying a quiet moment, these small moments add up. I’ve gotten better at stepping away from distractions and just being in the moment, but I know I can do more to be fully present in my daily life.
Self-Reflection and Emotional Check-Ins
It’s also crucial to check in with myself emotionally and physically. How am I feeling? What does my body need? Taking the time to reflect on these details helps prevent burnout. While I’ve improved in this area, there’s still room to make self-care a more consistent part of my routine.
Nurturing Relationships
Relationships thrive on the small acts of kindness and connection. This year, I’ve made a point to be more intentional with the people I care about, but I know I can do even better. It’s not always about grand gestures—sometimes, it’s the little things that mean the most.
The Little Things Add Up
Life is made up of small moments. The more attention we pay to those details, the richer and more meaningful our lives become. While I’ve made progress this year, I’m committed to continuing my journey of being mindful and present in the little moments that matter most.
When asked, “What’s your #1 priority tomorrow?” I’m reminded of how easily we can get lost in the whirlwind of daily life. Between the never-ending to-do lists, responsibilities, and constant flow of distractions, it’s easy to feel like we’re just going through the motions. But when I take a step back and reflect, my #1 priority becomes clear: intention.
My intention tomorrow, and every day, is to live with purpose. It’s to make sure that the choices I make and the actions I take align with the bigger picture of who I want to be and the life I’m working to create. For me, that means focusing on the things that matter most—my family, my personal growth, and my work as a life coach.
So often, we think of priorities in terms of tasks—what do I need to accomplish by the end of the day? But when we shift our mindset and ask, “What do I want to focus on?” it allows us to connect our priorities to something deeper. For me, that focus means taking intentional steps toward healing and growth, whether it’s through spending quality time with my kids, continuing to work on my business, or finding a quiet moment to reflect and recharge.
Living with intention doesn’t mean every day goes perfectly. Far from it. But it means that I’m actively choosing to focus on what matters, to not let the small distractions steal my energy, and to keep moving forward with purpose. That’s why my #1 priority tomorrow isn’t just about checking off tasks; it’s about aligning my actions with my values, being present for the people I care about, and showing up for myself and my purpose.
So, as I prepare for tomorrow, I’m asking myself: What’s one small step I can take to ensure that I’m living with intention? What’s one way I can show up for myself and those I love?
Tomorrow, my priority is simple: to be present, to act with purpose, and to live intentionally.
In what ways does hard work make you feel fulfilled?
For me, hard work is not just about the physical or mental effort I put in, but about the deeper sense of purpose and growth it brings. When I work hard toward a goal, there’s a certain satisfaction in knowing that I’m challenging myself, pushing past limits, and creating something meaningful.
One of the biggest ways hard work makes me feel fulfilled is by allowing me to look back and see tangible progress. Whether it’s personal or professional, seeing the results of consistent effort reminds me that I have the power to make things happen. That progress—however big or small—is a reminder that I’m moving forward, evolving, and creating impact.
Hard work also leads to a sense of accomplishment. It’s not just about achieving the goal but knowing that I didn’t take the easy way out. The lessons learned along the way, the resilience built, and the determination to keep going are all part of the reward. It’s through that hard work that I discover new strengths within myself and realize how much I am capable of.
Ultimately, hard work gives me a sense of pride and fulfillment because it connects me to my purpose. Each effort is a step toward becoming the best version of myself, and that journey is where the true fulfillment lies.
“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” — Robert Collier
This question is a powerful one and the trait that stands out for me is resilience. Life has presented me with its fair share of challenges, whether through personal trauma, loss, or the pursuit of my purpose. Yet, time and time again, I have chosen to rise, heal, and grow from those experiences.
Resilience is more than just bouncing back; it’s the ability to endure hardship, reflect on it, and emerge stronger and wiser. It has allowed me to not only survive the storms but also use those experiences to empower others. I’ve learned that resilience isn’t about being unbreakable—it’s about trusting that when you do break, you have the strength and faith to rebuild yourself, better and bolder than before.
This trait has become the foundation of my journey and my mission as a coach, guiding others to heal and thrive despite their own battles. My resilience is rooted in faith, self-compassion, and the understanding that no matter how difficult the path, there is always a way forward.
That’s the trait I value most because it’s the driving force behind everything I do.
When it comes to the brands I choose to associate with, it’s more than just a name—it’s about alignment with my purpose and values as an author, coach, and advocate for healing. I gravitate toward brands that promote personal growth, mindfulness, and empowerment. These are the brands that encourage people to show up as their best selves, prioritize self-care, and inspire others to thrive, no matter their past challenges.
Whether it’s through intentional products that help with self-reflection or wellness tools that support mental and emotional well-being, the brands I align with reflect the heart of my journey: healing, empowerment, and spiritual growth. They are not just about the external but about nurturing the inner work that fuels lasting transformation.
As I sit with this question, I’m reminded of the importance of making space for the things that nourish my spirit and contribute to my growth. In a world that demands so much from us, we often get caught up in the ‘doing’ rather than truly being. But as I reflect on what I could do more of, one answer becomes abundantly clear: I could do more of living intentionally.
Too often, we find ourselves running on autopilot, focusing on checking off our to-do lists and chasing after the next goal. But what if we paused and took a step back? What if we created more time to be present, to sit in stillness, and to reflect on the moments that make life meaningful?
“Living intentionally isn’t about adding more to your plate; it’s about choosing, with purpose, what you allow on your plate to begin with.”
~ Coach Shae Pratcher ~
For me, this means:
More Connection: I could spend more time connecting with the people who matter most. In the busyness of life, it’s easy to get swept away, but I know that creating space for real conversations with my husband, listening more attentively to my children, or reaching out to a friend can be soul-restoring. I encourage all of us to carve out moments to connect with those who fill our cup and remind us of who we are beyond our roles and responsibilities.
More Grace: I could also extend more grace—to myself and to others. Sometimes, we’re our own harshest critics, and that inner voice can be relentless. But true growth and healing happen when we allow ourselves to make mistakes, learn, and try again. In the same way, we can practice patience and understanding toward others, acknowledging that everyone is on their own journey.
More Self-Care: There’s power in caring for ourselves, not just physically but emotionally and spiritually. I’ve found that when I’m intentional about nurturing my soul—whether it’s through journaling, prayer, or using products that align with my self-care routines—I’m better equipped to serve those around me. Remember, self-care is not selfish; it’s necessary. You can’t pour from an empty cup.
So, when I ask myself, “What could I do more of?” the answer is clear: more intentional living, more connection, more grace, and more care. Not just for the sake of doing, but for the sake of thriving.
When I think about what gives me energy, I realize it’s a combination of both the simple moments and the intentional practices that keep me going day after day. Energy isn’t just about physical strength; it’s emotional, spiritual, and mental renewal that keeps us grounded and motivated.
Here are the things that fuel me the most:
Moments of Reflection and Faith Taking time to reflect and connect with my deeper sense of purpose fuels me like nothing else. In those quiet moments of reflection, I find the clarity and peace I need to navigate the day. It’s a time to realign my thoughts with the bigger picture, reminding me of the path I’m on and the strength I carry within.
Family Moments My children and husband bring so much joy and energy into my life. Whether it’s the laughter of my little ones or a heartfelt conversation with my husband, these moments recharge me on every level. Watching my kids grow, hearing their laughter, and seeing them thrive brings me life in ways that are hard to describe.
Music that Moves Me Music has always played a powerful role in my life. It’s been there for me in the hardest moments and lifted me in the best. Whether it’s a gospel song that strengthens my faith or an R&B track that stirs my soul, music gives me energy like nothing else.
Mindfulness and Self-Care Mindfulness has become such a big part of my life. Taking intentional pauses throughout the day, whether through deep breathing or using my favorite products like the KEYS SoulCare line, allows me to recenter and refocus. It’s these small moments of self-care that make all the difference when I’m feeling drained.
Helping Others The work I do as a coach and writer is deeply rewarding. Knowing that I am making a difference in someone else’s healing journey fuels me in ways that words can’t describe. Whether it’s through my book Highway to Healing, or through my coaching program, Showering Seeds of Growth, helping others thrive gives me a sense of purpose and energy.
Growth and Learning I’m energized by growth—my own and the growth I witness in others. Whether I’m expanding my own knowledge or watching others flourish, growth is a powerful source of energy for me. There’s something deeply motivating about knowing that every day is an opportunity to be better, to learn more, and to evolve into a stronger version of yourself.
At the end of the day, what gives me energy is the intentional focus on what matters most—faith, family, healing, and self-care. These are the things that refill my cup and remind me that I am equipped to handle whatever comes my way.
What fuels you? Have you taken the time to reflect on what truly gives you energy?
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
In one of my deepest moments of reflection during therapy, my therapist shared something that completely shifted my perspective: “You are not responsible for what happened to you, but you are responsible for how you move forward.”
At first, it felt overwhelming. For years, I had carried the weight of my past and held onto the pain of experiences I couldn’t control. But this advice was a breakthrough moment, offering me clarity in the chaos. It was a call to action, reminding me that I had the power to shape my future, even if I couldn’t rewrite the past.
What my therapist helped me understand was that accountability is not about blame; it’s about empowerment. I had the choice to take control of my healing, to set boundaries, to protect my peace, and to build a future on my own terms. It wasn’t an easy path—healing never is—but it was one that would be defined by my choices, not by the trauma that tried to define me.
This advice became the cornerstone of my journey. I started to ask myself: “What choices am I making today that are shaping my tomorrow?” With that question came a new level of self-awareness. I began setting boundaries that aligned with my values. I gave myself permission to let go of people and situations that no longer served me. And most importantly, I began to take responsibility for my own happiness and growth.
The beauty of this advice is that it applies to all aspects of life. It’s not about having everything figured out or waiting for the right time. It’s about taking small steps, making conscious decisions, and understanding that while we can’t control what happens to us, we do control how we respond.
Healing is a journey, and it’s a journey that requires intentionality and grace. But it starts with one crucial realization: the power is in your hands.
So, what’s the best piece of advice I ever received? To embrace accountability—for my healing, my future, and my happiness.
Music has always been a central part of my life, shaping my experiences and giving me a way to connect with my emotions and the world around me. While I’ve fallen in love with many songs and artists over the years, if I had to choose just one album that has stood the test of time for me, it would be Monica’s The Boy Is Mine.
Monica has been more than just a singer I admire—she’s been an inspiration, a source of strength, and the driving force behind my own passion for music. It was her voice, so rich and unique, that drew me in and made me realize that music was something I didn’t just want to listen to—I wanted to live it.
A Major Influence on My Love for Music
I can still remember listening to Monica’s music as a child and feeling a deep connection to her lyrics and the raw emotion in her voice. It was more than just entertainment; her songs spoke to me. Her ability to convey both strength and vulnerability in a single note left an imprint on my heart. Monica’s music showed me that singing wasn’t just about hitting the right notes—it was about telling a story, about expressing the truth of who you are.
Her songs, like “Angel of Mine” and “You Should’ve Known Better,” held such power that they quickly became soundtracks to important moments in my life. The very first talent show I ever participated in, I performed “You Should’ve Known Better.” That performance was a defining moment for me, marking the start of my own musical journey. Monica’s influence was clear—it was her music that gave me the courage to step on stage and share my voice with the world.
Why The Boy Is Mine Stands Out
Released in the late ’90s, The Boy Is Mine became an instant classic. From the title track, a fierce collaboration with Brandy, to deep emotional ballads like “For You I Will,” every song on that album felt like a story. Monica’s ability to weave together heartache, hope, and empowerment made this album something truly special.
For me, The Boy Is Mine was more than just an album—it was a soundtrack that shaped my younger years and fueled my dream to become a singer. Her voice, her lyrics, and her unapologetic delivery made me feel empowered as a young girl, especially as I navigated my own dreams and passions. Listening to Monica sing felt like having someone in my corner, pushing me to keep going, keep dreaming, and keep believing in my own voice.
A Lifelong Connection
Even now, Monica’s music continues to inspire me. Her ability to make every song feel so personal, so real, reminds me why I fell in love with music in the first place. I’ve grown since the first time I heard The Boy Is Mine, but my connection to that album—and to Monica—has never faded. It’s a reminder of where I started and why I continue to hold on to music as a source of inspiration and empowerment.
The way Monica’s voice fills a room, the way her lyrics tell a story—she’s been a force for me throughout my life. She showed me that music could be a powerful tool for expressing the deepest parts of ourselves.
So, if you ask me what my all-time favorite album is, I’ll always say Monica’s The Boy Is Mine—because it’s not just an album to me. It’s a symbol of the beginning of my journey, both as a lover of music and as someone who dared to dream big.
Stay well until next time.
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