What is the best piece of career advice you have ever received?

To not underestimate myself —my intelligence, writing skills, relationship-building skills, and overall value. I think I often undervalue myself and therefore do not fight for myself regarding raises and promotions and I need to remember every day that I am a valuable asset to my employer.

What other women do you admire, and anything you want to share about them?

I admire my dear friend, Betsy, for the way she sets boundaries, practices self-care and relies on other people she respects to run things by before making impulsive decisions. She has taught me so many important life skills and is someone who is able to point out my character defects and I actually listen and do not freak out. She is one in a million. 

Also, my friend and pastor, Brandi, because she is level-headed, wise, kind, practices good self-care, is balanced and incredibly thoughtful (not just to people–thoughtful about all things). She walks the walk. When I first met her I was really lacking balance, boundaries and healthy emotional skills and I gravitated to her–I would have seriously followed her around all day if I could have. She also has always extended grace and love to me. 

I want to say that I admire so many women, but for this blog just chose two that stand out in my mind.

What app can’t you live without?

Facebook. It is where I get my news, read interesting articles, find out what is going on in my community, keep up with friends from all chapters in my life thus far and overshare 🙂

What is your favorite podcast and or book?

Oprah’s Super Soul. I am currently enjoying her series from her “Oprah’s 2020 Vision Tour”. Book, I read so many so this is too hard to answer, but feel free to follow me on Good Reads. I get a lot of great picks from Reese Witherspoon, Jenna Bush and of course my awesome book club, The Nightingale’s.

What piece of advice would you share with other women?

Embrace your brokenness, don’t be afraid to be vulnerable, feel your feelings, share without being concerned about what others think and remember that you are unique and that there is only one you and people appreciate authenticity. Live a life of faith over fear, say I love you, cry when you feel moved, hug your loved ones, send cards, trust people and do not be afraid to wear a bikini if you feel like it (even if you are 45, have cellulite and not even close to rock hard abs:) Oh and don’t miss out on ice cream, time with friends and having fun, because life is way too short. Work/life balance is key. I love my job, but I also love my life outside of work–my family, friends, hobbies, volunteer commitments, paddle boarding, travel, etc. #YOLO

What are you most grateful for?

My sobriety. I got sober 6/29/11 and it is the greatest gift I have ever been given. If it were not for my sobriety I would not have the people in my life today, my job at Shatterproof, my full life, the respect and trust of people in my circle and most of all my relationship with God. Without Him none of this would be possible. I cannot imagine going through life without God. I find so much comfort and support from my relationship with Him and the relationships I have with other believers. I am incredibly grateful for the women in my life today and my family and how supportive they are of my journey.  I am also super grateful for my two nephews (ages 8 & 4). I do not have my own children and I delight in watching them grow up and being part of their lives. Tough question, as I live my life with an attitude of gratitude.

Is there anything else you want to share with my readers?

That we are all survivors and life certainly does not go how we planned it to go, but it is a wild ride if you keep rooted in faith over fear, take time to be quiet, enjoy nature and fill your life with people you love deeply.