WNJ Inspires Archives - Page 2 of 3

28 Life Lessons…

August 11, 2014 by Whitney 12 Comments

Happy Monday! As I celebrate my 28th birthday today, I want to share 28 life lessons I’m taking with me into my new year. 27 was a year of lessons, preparation and growth. It was one of my most challenging years for many reasons, but it was a great one nonetheless. This year I will have less stress, more peace, less worry and more faith. Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

1. Gods love is real

2. Prayer works

3. Your word is your bond

4. Family is everything

5. Trust your intuition

6. There’s a season & a reason for everything

7. Life goes on

8. Be nice to yourself & others

9. Saying “no” is sometimes necessary

10. Smile

11. Do what makes you happy

12. Be yourself

13. Take chances

14. Make mistakes

15. Learn from your mistakes

16. Work hard, play hard

17. Be genuine

18. Treat yourself

19. Don’t be selfish with your gifts

20. When God says move, MOVE

21. Stay true to who you are

22. Stand up for what you believe in

23. You’re not designed for everyone to like you

24. Love your decisions

25. Surround yourself with those who make you better

26. Try new things

27. Enjoy the moments

28. Live the life you love {borrowing this from Mattie 😉 }

WNJ Inspires – What’s on my Bucket List, Part II

August 5, 2014 by Whitney 19 Comments

Last week I shared 10 bucket list ideas from my 28 Things to Do While 28 list. I was so happy to see those 10 ideas spark an interest with some of you. A few people even reached out letting me know they were inspired to start their own bucket lists! 🙂 So today, I’m sharing the rest of my bucket list ideas. Here we go!

11. Complete the Bible in 1 year (starting on Aug. 11th)

12. Complete another Thrift With Nic! Tour

13. Learn how to sew (at least the basics)

14. Pay for a strangers meal

15. Cook a BIG meal for a special occasion or holiday

16. Try eyebrow threading (OUCH) (DONE)

17. Change my hair color for a day (wearing a wig counts 😉 )

18. Meet a celebrity (DONE – Will Meet Several at The Merge Conference in Aug. 2015)

19. Take a pole dancing class (heeeeyyy 😉 ) (DONE)

20. Own a pet (a fish counts, lol)

21. Start a YouTube page (DONE)

22. Attend Blogalicious (DONE – Will Attend Sept. 2015)

24. Get a facial (DONE)

25. Attend a wine tasting event/or class

26. Apply/Pitch to speak at an event/or school (DONE)

27. Invest in a new camera and computer (NEW COMPUTER, DONE)

28. Invest in one luxury purchase (handbag, shoes, jewelry, etc.)

So what do you think about these 10 bucket list ideas? Still pretty reasonable, right?

As always, thanks for reading! I hope I’ve inspired even more of you to create a bucket list of your own. As I said in last weeks post, life is way too short not to enjoy it. Until tomorrow, be blessed and be safe…XO!

P.S. Don’t forget to link up your recent OOTD over on my Personal Style Linkup!

Spiritual Wellness | 7 Ways to Detox Your Life

July 29, 2014 by Whitney 9 Comments

I’m a firm believer that every now and then, detoxing your life (in some way) is necessary. It’s no surprise this topic has been on my mind for a while. Every year around this time, I find myself reflecting a bit more and focusing on positive change. As I approach 28, my goal is to continue living a happy and healthy life, as well as (gradually) adopting a more simple lifestyle. Detoxing your life is a sure way to ensure such lifestyle. Check out 7 easy ways to detox your life.

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1. Pray. Before I make any changes in my life, I pray about it. Praying for guidance and clarity while detoxing your life will help keep you on the right track during this process.

2. Clear out clutter. This is something I’m in the process of doing. From your closet to the kitchen cabinets to your garage – whatever you’re not using, throw it out! If it’s old clothes, donate them to the Goodwill or Salvation Army. If it’s canned food, donate to a food pantry. Junk in the garage? Call a junk trunk to come haul it out. Clear out the clutter and prepare for a fresh start.

3. Edit Your Surroundings – Sometimes the reason we’re stuck in neutral or even reverse is due to the company we keep. When you succeed, not everyone is happy about that. Be careful of the company you keep and be careful who you share things with. I’m a firm believer in energy and some people know how to suck all the good energy out of you. You do not need people like that rallying behind you. Pray for positive people to enter into your life and embrace their positive energy. Their way of thinking or habits may be a good influence on you.

7 Ways to Detox Your Life #selfcare

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5. Unplug. Not having your cell phone within arms reach may cause some to go into a state of shock, I get it. But I believe it’s a necessary step if you’re trying to detox your life. Whatever picture you want to like, upload or retweet will be there tomorrow. Just take a break from the phone and social media for a while and enjoy your surroundings. Become more present and connected with the people around you like your spouse, family, and friends.

6. Keep it to yourself. What did we do before social media sharing? We kept things to ourselves and enjoyed life’s moments with those who were there with us. If you really want to share certain moments, like vacations and special date nights, snap a pic and share it later. While you’re in the moment, be in that moment. Enjoy yourself and the people around you.

7. Move your body. Become more active by taking a walk, a jog, signing up for a yoga class…just something that gets you up and moving! Moving and doing certain activities gives you energy and makes you feel alive.

So tell me, what are some ways you detox your life? Let me know!

As always, thanks for reading. Your comments and feedback are awesome, so be sure to share your detox tips with me! 🙂 Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe!

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WNJ Inspires – What’s on My Bucket List, Part I

July 15, 2014 by Whitney 24 Comments

Every year around this time, I start thinking about my birthday. Born on August 11th, I’m said to be outgoing, self-assured and have a tremendous zest for life. All those are traits of a Leo and I suppose I agree with them. 😉 Well today I want to share 10 Bucket List Items with you – I guess that zest for life thing is kicking in, right?

My 28th year will be amazing. I’ve worked really hard this year and I’ve achieved many goals earlier than expected which is indeed a blessing. While I’m extremely grateful and thankful for everything I’ve accomplished, I’ve missed being spontaneous and trying new things. Sometimes we get so caught up in making a living that we forget to make a life. I read and posted that quote the other day on Instagram and realized that in my 28th year, my main goal is to enjoy life to the fullest. That’s why some of the things on my list are fun and silly, while others are more “serious” – it’s a good balance. 😉 OK, enough chit chat…let’s take a peek at some of these bucket list items, shall we….

1. Go to a concert (with one of my favorite artists) and sit front row.

2. Go zip lining. (this will help me overcome my slight fear of heights)

3. Train for (and run) a 5K.

4. Complete a few DIY projects.

5. Go to Essence Music Fest.

6. Go to a shooting range.

7. Get a bikini wax. (DONE)

8. Plan a spontaneous trip and just…GO!

9. Go on a tour of the White House. (SCHEDULED)

10. Complete the Daily Bread online bible course.

So tell me, what do you think of these bucket list items? Pretty reasonable, huh? What about you – what are some things on your birthday bucket list? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and I hope you’ve been inspired to think about more ways you can enjoy and live life to the fullest! Until tomorrow, be blessed and be safe…XO!

P.S. Don’t forget to link up your recent OOTD over on my Personal Style Linkup!

#WNJInspired | 7 Tips on Pursuing Your Passion

May 20, 2014 by Whitney 20 Comments

Ever since I was a child, I had a passion for writing. I wrote my 1st short story in 4th grade and having my teacher bind and publish it for the whole school to read was a MAJOR moment in my 4th grade life, lol. I also remember “playing store” with my cousins and friends when I was little. I’d have them act as customers while I rang up their items. The items in this case were Bibles, Encyclopedia’s, pens and whatever else happened to be in my grandfathers office/library. Fast forward years later and I’m still pretty much doing the same things; writing and “playing store”. Granted, the writing and store playing is now on a different level. But I have yet to stray from what intrigued and inspired me as a child. This leads me to sharing my 7 tips on pursuing your passion.

Blouse: Jones New York, Thrifted // Denim Pants: Style & Co.

7 Tips on Pursuing Your Passion

1. Think about what you enjoyed doing as a child. Did you enjoy writing poems? What about telling jokes? Maybe you enjoyed knitting and making crafts with your grandmother. Think about those things to get your mind going in the right direction. Think about how you felt doing those activities. If it made you happy or brought you joy, that’s a good place to start.

2. Write/create an action plan. Get a journal, notepad or notebook and write! Write down your goals, plans, dreams, things that inspire you, etc. Create a plan for yourself and figure out how you’re going to pursue your passion. Are you going to open an online store to sell your homemade items? Write it down. Also, list your short term and long term goals.

3. Keep your day job. It may sound obvious but, don’t quit your day job to pursue your passion if you cannot afford it. Let’s be honest, not many of us have the luxury of working on our passion full-time. But that doesn’t mean it will never happen. Keep working and doing your best where you are, while working towards making your passion a full-time job.

Do your best where you are while working to make your passion a full-time job. #wnjinspired

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Shoes: Lane Bryant // Purse: Thrifted

4. Research. Find articles, blog posts and anything else that has to do with your passion. Become an expert at whatever it is you want to pursue. If you can’t afford to subscribe to magazines, head to the library. They have a ton of magazines and while some may be outdated, they still have useful information on a plethora of topics. Also, sign up form FREE seminars and participate in twitter chats and Google Hangouts that pertain to your passion.

5. Find a mentor. If you admire someone, reach out to them. Let them know you notice what they’re doing and don’t be afraid to tell them how they’ve inspired you. Build a relationship with that person and be sure to stay in contact through emailing, text messaging, phone conversations, etc. NOTE: Be genuine and speak from your heart. People can sense insincerity and people can spot a suck-up a mile away.

6. Network. Going back to #4, research and find out about networking opportunities in your area. Being around like-minded creatives feeds your passion. This is crucial in pursing your passion. Check out this post for more reasons why networking is important.

7. Don’t give up. Finding and realizing your passion can be exhilarating and tough at the same time. There will be times when you can’t give your all to your passion because of prior obligations. And you may run into people who doubt your passion. Do not let that stop you. Keep going, keep thriving, and remember how great your passion makes you feel.

Go for it! Here are 7 quick and easy tips on pursuing your passion. #wnjinspired

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So tell me, how are you pursuing your passion? Is there something holding you back? Let me know!

Let’s keep the conversation going and let’s inspire and motivate one another! If you have any topics or questions you want me to discuss here on WNJ, feel free to contact me! I’d love to get your feedback/or questions! As always, thanks for reading and until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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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

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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!

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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!

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**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**

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