Whitney, Author at Whitney Nic James

#WNJInspired | 10 Things I Wish I Knew 10 Years Ago

February 25, 2014 by Whitney 28 Comments

Lately I’ve had some really inspiring conversations with some pretty amazing people. Most of whom I speak to on a daily basis, but then others I rarely converse with (except via-social media). These conversations have inspired today’s post. Looking at the title, 10 things I wish I knew 10 years ago, I’m sure you can relate. We all have (at least) 10 things we wish we knew 10 years ago, right? I mean looking back to 10 years ago, I was a 17-year-old aspiring journalist who was out of this world excited about heading to college with my best friend on a soccer scholarship. I was carefree, exuberant, and thought I had all the answers – I was ready for the world! At 27, I do miss somethings about being 17 but for the most part, I wouldn’t want to go back and relive those days. I would however tell myself these 10 things…

1. Mommy & Dad are right. 99% of the time, they’re right. Just listen…and thank yourself later.

2. When people show you who they are, believe them. Maya Angelou said it best and boy is this true! Knowing this will save you a lot of time and energy.

3. Enjoy the moment. Life goes by way to fast. Take time to enjoy and cherish life’s simple moments because you can’t get them back.

10 things I wish I knew 10 years ago. #wnjinspired

Click To Tweet

4. You get what you pay for. Taking the easy or cheap road isn’t worth it. You’ll end up spending even more time and even more money fixing your mistake(s).

5. Try new things. Be open to new foods, travel destinations, experiences, etc. Don’t be so quick to write something off. Give it a try; you might like actually like it!

6. Say no. Sometimes you have to say no to certain things. Accept the fact that you can’t do everything you want. That’s life.

7. Don’t be afraid to fail. Failure is proof that you’re trying. You may fail before you succeed, but that’s not a reason to give up. Failure builds character.

Don’t set a deadline on figuring out who you are. It takes time – you’ll figure it out. #wnjinspired

Click To Tweet

8. Friends are there for a reason and a season. Understand that everyone who comes in your life isn’t meant to be there for a lifetime. There are a few friends who will be there ’til the end but meeting new people and finding new friends is natural. It means your evolving.

9. Appreciate good friends. Those few friends from #9 who you know will be there til’ the end, appreciate them. Life is short and a few good friends will help you through just about anything.

10. It’s never too late to become the person you were meant to be. Don’t set a deadline on figuring out who you are. It will take time, but don’t worry – you’ll figure it out.

So tell me, what do you know now that you wish you knew 10 years ago? Is there something on my list that you agree with? Let me know!

As always, thank you for reading and feel free to leave your comments below, or even tweet them to me! Until next time, be blessed & stay safe…XO!

Keep Up With Me

Instagram // Twitter // Facebook // Newsletter

#WNJBlogs | 10 Things I’ve Learned About Blogging

February 18, 2014 by Whitney 39 Comments

The other day, I looked back at my very 1st blog post from March 2011 and instantly realized that I’d grown so much as a blogger. I actually leave my old blog published because from time to time, I look back at where I started as motivation. Especially on days when I’m not feeling it. That said, I want to share 10 things I’ve learned about blogging. Maybe you’re thinking about blogging but unsure of “what it takes”. Or maybe you’re already a blogger and you find yourself at a fork in the road, unsure if you want to continue blogging or not. Whatever the case, I invite you to check out this post. In one way or another, I hope it helps. 🙂

1. Stay True – Regardless of what’s “popular” or “trendy”, blog about what you know and what you’re passionate about.

2. Be Consistent – You don’t have to blog every day but, have some kind of blogging schedule so your readers know when to expect your posts.

3. Connect – Do your best to respond to blog comments and questions. When a blogger responds to my comments, it shows me that she/he actually cares that I visited their site.

4. Network – Attend as many conferences, meetups, etc. that you can afford. This keeps you up-to-date on the latest blog trends and it keeps you motivated.

5. Be Nice – It’s a small world, but an even smaller blogging world. Word travels fast so, be careful how you “act” online and in person.

6. Plan Ahead – This is something I’ve gotten better at, but I’m still working on it. Planning your blog posts and social media posts saves so much time. Especially if you have a life outside of blogging.

10 things you should know about blogging.#wnjblogs

Click To Tweet

7. Work Together – Working with other bloggers is a great way to introduce yourself to a new audience. Find another blogger that shares your interests and figure out a way to team up!

8. Learn to DIY– When it comes to the blog itself, a lot of blog tweaks and changes can be done by you, the blogger. You don’t have to hire someone to do every little thing for you. If you’re investing in your blog, why not learn a thing or two about how to run a blog?

9. Trial & Error – Try posting at different times for a few weeks and pay attention to which time brings more traffic. You can also do this for your social media sites too!

10. Have Fun & Keep Going – For me, blogging is fun. I love to write, meet new people and connect with readers so it’s a perfect match! 😉 Also, don’t get discouraged because you “only have a little bit of followers”. Followers will come and even if they don’t, remember why you started in the 1st place.

So tell me, what are somethings you’ve learned about blogging? Let me know!

I hope you’ve found this post helpful. As always, thanks for reading! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe.

KEEP UP WITH ME

Instagram // Twitter // Snapchat // Facebook // Newsletter

WNJ Inspires – Love, Part I

January 28, 2014 by Whitney 10 Comments

Are you all ready for another inspirational blog post? I must say that these posts are some of my favorites. I love inspiring you, my readers, because in return you all inspire me by leaving such amazing and sweet comments. It’s such a blessing, and I’m so thankful….thank you all for inspiring me.

Today, I want to begin talking about love. I’d like to think of myself as a “lovey dovey” and happy person. I love to smile, I hug everyone I meet, I laugh (a lot) and I’m that cheesy friend who sends cards and letters for every small occasion. 🙂 I am the way I am because I was raised in a household filled with love. I never had to wonder if my parents or grandparents loved me – it was a given. To this day, I still say I love you whenever I hang up from talking to a family member.

LOVE Sweater: Lane Bryant// Cardigan: Lane Bryant// Slacks: Marshall’s// Shoes: Thrifted// Necklace: eBay// Watch: Charming Charlie

So what’s the big deal you ask? I think sometimes we get so caught up in life’s day-to-day routines that we forget how much an, “I love you” or even a smile can lift someone up. I’ve lost some pretty meaningful people in my life and boy, what I wouldn’t do just to be able to hug them and say I love you. Life is so short and the world can be such a cruel place. Letting those you love know that you love them imperative. Even if you’re upset with someone close to you, find a way to get over it and move on. It’s not worth it. Here are 3 easy ways to let your loved ones know you love and care about them.

1. Send an “I’m thinking about you” text to someone you haven’t heard form in a while

2. Set aside 5 to 10 minutes out of your (busy) day to call & check in on someone you love

3. Hug more

Do you tell your loved ones you love them? Is there someone you may want to reach out to and remind them how much you love them? If so, waste no time. Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…..XO!

P.S. Don’t forget to linkup your recent outfit post with my weekly Personal Style Linkup!

**Linkups: Style Sessions, WIW & Love Your Look **

#WNJInspired | Finding Your Groove in Life, Business and Marriage

January 20, 2014 by Whitney 23 Comments

Have you ever heard the phrase, “find your groove”? Well in today’s post, I want to talk about how I’m finding my groove in life, business and marriage. I’m nowhere close to figuring out this thing called life but then again, who is? I do however feel like I’m coming into my own as a young woman and I’m really excited about my growth. My day to day life involves a lot and I’m learning how to manage time, finances and relationships. So how have I found my groove? What’s the secret? No secret, just learning as I go. But there are a few things I can share.

Coat: Simply Be// Scarf: Gifted// Sequin Baseball Cap: Hat Store in the Mall// Leggings: Nordstom// Top: Lord & Taylor// Necklace: Thrifted in NY// Watch & Bracelets: Charming Charlie & Gifted// Sunnies: Purchased at a Vendor Fair//Flats: Mossimo (Thrifted)// Purse: Steve Madden, (Thrifted)

Finding My Groove in Life: I’ve found that daily morning prayer, writing to-do-lists, and having regular chats with my mother and other close friends has helped me find balance in life. As hectic as the work week can be, there’s nothing like taking a moment to yourself and saying a little prayer. You already know how I feel about to-do-lists from this post – they’re EVERYTHING! Lol…:-) Talking and venting to my mom and close friends gives me another perceptive on certain situations. It also brings us closer and gives us a chance to catch up. Even if it’s a Facebook or Google chat, a text or a phone call, having someone to talk to is necessary in order to find balance in life. The older I get, the more I realize that genuine connections and friendships are imperative for a healthy and balanced life.

Finding your groove in life is a constant struggle, but it IS possible. #wnjinspired

Click To Tweet

Finding My Groove in Business: As a small business owner and blogger, I’ve realized that reading and researching your craft is so important. You’d be surprised at how much you can learn by just doing a google search on “Blogging Tips”, “Small Business Startups”, etc. Being apart of a blogging group has helped me find my groove in business as well. As an active member of Bloggers Like Me, I’ve learned so much about SEO, Social Media Trends and more! I’ve also made connections (and unexpected bonds) with people who share the same interests as I do. If you’re serious about blogging or starting a business, start reading and find out what works for you. Once you get the hang of certain things, you too will find your groove – I’m sure of it.

**Check out this article for tips on startup business, this one if you want to know how to “properly” use Google+, and this article about the importance of promoting old blog posts. I found these (and so many more) very helpful!**

Finding My Groove in Marriage: In February, Darrius and I will be married for 9 months. In NO WAY am I a relationship expert, but I know what works for us. I’m finding that little things like planning meals, dates and couple activities has put us on the right track to having a strong(er) and healthy marriage. There are still days when I’m overwhelmed with work and blogging and I may not be able to cook a nice hot meal. But those are the days when he steps in. We have a cooking schedule that has been (kind of) working for us, as well as planned date nights. I mean heck, we plan everything else in our lives. Why not plan date nights? It gives us both something to look forward to and it holds us accountable. All these little things have played a huge part in helping me find my groove in marriage. There are several other things I could share but, I’ll save that for another post. 🙂

So tell me, have you found your groove in these areas? Are you still trying to find your groove in a certain area? Let me know!

Thanks in advance for sharing! Until tomorrow, be blessed…XO!

Keep Up With Me

Instagram // Twitter // Facebook // Newsletter

2014 – Getting in Spiritual Shape

January 6, 2014 by Whitney 36 Comments

Hello and Happy New Year to everyone! It’s SO good to be back to blogging after a few weeks of (necessary) rest and relaxation. I was able to regroup and refocus, as well as spent a lot of the time with family and a few friends. I also had time to work on my vision board – something I’d been dying to complete.

Sweater: Macy’s (Alfani)// Necklace & Heels: Thrifted // Faux Front Panel Leather Leggings: Macy’s(Style & Co.)// Clutch: Love, Cortnie Earrings: Bakers (Old)// Bracelet: Monet (Macy’s)

Without showing every single vision on my board, below is an image of my work in progress. I just put the final touches on this weekend. Simply put, I pray 2014 is a year of personal, spiritual and financial growth, as well as a year full of good health (for me and my family), traveling and networking. However, the most important goal is to be in better shape spiritually. I believe that if I focus on that, everything else will follow.

*In this post, I broke down my 5 more or less aspirations for the year*

I can happily say that my husband and I are on our way to becoming partners/members at a church we’ve been attending for almost a year now. While we have a home church, it’s important to us that we build our spiritual selves somewhere that shares our same beliefs, as well as provides a congregation with faces of all colors and all different backgrounds. That was one of my main goals and to be in the process of transition to our new church home excites me!

I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season and were able to catch up on some z’s, as well as think about your own personal growth. Until next time, be blessed and I’ll be back tomorrow…XO!

___

**Linkups: Mix it Monday’s, Monday Must Haves, Friday Fab Favorites, Monday Funday, Monday Mingle, Working Girl w/ Style, Get Your Pretty On, Monday Morning Gossip, What I’m Loving Friday’s & Friday’s Fave Favorites**

More & Less for 2014

December 20, 2013 by Whitney 29 Comments

TGIF!! 😀 The weekend is finally here and I am SO ready to do nothing, lol. Before heading off to enjoy the next few days, I had to end the week with my final post for 2013. While I have my personal goals written down and (some) displayed on a vision board, I wanted to share my 5 “more and less” New Year aspirations with you all.

More Faith – Having a positive outlook on life and a strong faith go hand in hand. I plan to continue building my faith, as well as my spiritual relationship, in 2014.
Less Stress – The late bills, “unlost” pounds, the guilt of missing out on an opportunity…all that will stay in 2013. I’m starting fresh with no stress.
More Passion – I’m sure of my passion and purpose and I plan to continue walking into my destiny as the New Year unfolds.
Less Fear – Going back to #1, I will have more Faith and less Fear. I will trust my instincts and go with my gut feelings. My intuition is maturing…I will embrace that.
More Love – Thanks to my 11-year-old sister, I have gained an even greater love for community service and volunteer work. In 2014, I will spread even more love and joy to others through volunteering and serving my community.

I hope you all have a wonderful and joyous holiday season, and a FABULOUS and prosperous New Year! I will be back to posting in January but in the meantime, feel free to keep up with me on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook. Be blessed and be safe….see ya in 2014! 🙂

____

*2013 Highlights*

____

*Linkups: Friday Fab Faves*

Preachers of LA – Why I’m a Fan of the Show

November 15, 2013 by Whitney 20 Comments

As we all know, reality TV is my “thing”. Being a very spiritual person as well, I was naturally excited and intrigued when I saw there was going to be a show focusing on preachers, Preachers of LA. I must admit I was a bit uneasy because I know many people already have preconceived thoughts about preachers and church. But after watching and really paying attention to the meat of the show, I was hooked. Ignoring the fancy cars, houses and wardrobes, the fact that the show focuses on more than just the Bible is something I think the world needs. If you take away the glitz and glam of the show, you’ll see that the pastors have a past, they’ve had (and are still dealing with) hardships and struggles and above all, their human.

One of the Pastors on the show, Jay Haizlip, is covered with tattoos yet comes across as a very down to earth person who’s main concern is saving souls. In this weeks episode, he sat down with a band member from the rock band Korn and their conversation was pretty insightful. Check out some of the points that stuck out to me.

1. “One thing I hate to see is Christians hating on other Christians…”

2.” Those people judging us need Jesus more than the drug addicts…”

3. “If you judge people by their looks you’ll miss who they are and what God wants to do in their lives…”

Gives you something to think about, right? My main point of today’s post is to say that if it takes a show like this to reach that one person who is lost and unsure of what or where to go next, it’s done it’s job. Sometimes it takes a show like this to get to through to people. I also think the show starts a necessary dialect about more than just religion – it opens up dialect about faith, spirituality and our beliefs.

Have you watched the show? What did you think? If you haven’t. I’ll say this – before you count the show completely out, or if you’ve already watched it and don’t like it, try watching it with a different perspective next time. If it’s not for you, so be it. Everything ain’t for everybody, right? 😉 Until next time, be blessed and TTYS!

« Previous Page