Whitney Nic James

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Social Media | 5 Ways to Increase Your Visibility on Instagram

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Despite the janky algorithm, Instagram is still my favorite social media site. Many of my fellow creatives and entrepreneurs have complained about the lack of engagement on their posts, as well as the random drop in their following. Trust me, I see it and I’ve been affected. My following seems to be at a standstill, and my feed seems to be stuck on only sharing the same 6-7 posts, from the same people.
The algorithm is jacked up, but there’s still hope for Instagram. #wnjsocial

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I get it, trust me I do. However, I still enjoy scrolling and double tapping through my favorite feeds, and I’m quickly becoming a huge fan of Instastories. I believe the Instastories feature has revived Instagram. While the new feature has allowed me to engage with my audience more, there are a few things I’ve noticed that have helped increase my visibility. Continue reading to find out 5 ways you can increase your visibility on Instagram (at the moment). I would say in 2018, but we all know there’s a strong possibility things may change. But for now, the tips below will definitely help.

  1. Be honest and transparent with your audience
    • think of Instagram as a way to visually tell a story
    • make sure your story is relatable, authentic, and true to you/or your brand
  2. Engage with your audience
    • ask a question at the end of certain posts to spark a conversation (be sure to respond back)
    • make your caption a “short story” to increase the chances of receiving genuine feedback
  3. Engage with fellow creatives within your niche
    • genuinely comment on their posts (and they just might follow you back)
    • respond to their questions
    • share and tag their Instagram handles with your audience
  4. Tag the brands of the products you post
    • shout out your favorite brands when posting about them (you never know who’s watching or reading)
    • ask your audience their thoughts on the products you share (be sure to respond back)
    • ask your audience to share some of their favorite products from that particular brand
  5. Get familiar with the Instastories feature
    • ask poll questions to get your audience involved
    • share bits and pieces of your everyday life
    • share behind the scenes of your brand/or job
    • go Live by yourself or with someone else
    • tag bands when sharing products

As far as the aesthetics of your Instagram feed, I’m a big fan of theme based feeds. I find these accounts more visually appealing. As a content creator who has their own Instagram theme, I will say this makes coming up with content less stressful. Not only do you have an idea of what to post next, but you’re audience also knows what to look forward to. I call my Instagram theme IPL: Inspiration (quote or scripture), Personal Style (outfit post), and Lifestyle (food, family, products, etc.).

Think of Instagram as a way to visually tell a story that is relatable and authentic. #wnjsocial

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So tell me, what do you think about Instagram? Do you find any of these tips helpful? Let me know! 

I plan to share more social media content in 2018, so feel free to let me know what you’d like to read about! As always, thanks for reading and commenting and until next time, be blessed and stay safe.

Love & light…xo!

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Auto Review | 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander AWC

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The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander was an excellent companion during my winter break! I was able to maneuver through the snow-covered streets with confidence and ease, thanks to the Super All-Wheel Controls. This advanced technology gives you maximum traction and makes driving around under various weather conditions much easier. The vehicle also has 4 diver modes including Normal, Snow, Lock and AWC ECO Mode. I found these modes especially handy while traveling approximate 50-55 minutes to visit family during the holidays.

Related: 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Auto Review

The Labrador Black Metallic 4-door SUV was a nice ride, but I didn’t feel much difference between the 2018 and the 2017 model while driving. When it came to the physical and safety features, however, there were a few differences:

  • 7-inch display touchscreen has replaced the 6.1-inch display
  • Blind Spot Warning with Rear Cross Traffic Alert 
  • Chrome Grille Accents
  • Lane Change Assist
Read about the differences between the (@mitsucars) 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander and the 2017 model.

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During my winter break, I also took the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander for a spin to Downtown Baltimore. My parents gifted Darrius and I tickets to a comedy show for Christmas, so I thought the ride Downtown would be the perfect time to test out the backseat’s comfortability. With my parents seated in the 2nd row, they were able to comfortably withstand a 30-minute ride.

Although the 2nd row is said to fit 3 people, I think if another full-size adult was riding with my parents they would NOT be too comfy. It would be a snug fit, to say the least. Same goes for the 3rd-row; a snug, and even tight fit, for sure! For even more exterior and interior specifics, as well as more safety features and the price, check out the information below.

Exterior

  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System
  • Tires – Front Performance
  • Tires – Rear Performance
  • Compact Spare Tire
  • Power Windows
  • Privacy Glass

Interior

  • Heated Front Seats & Steering Wheel
  • 50/50 Flat Fold Down 3rd Row Seats
  • Keyless Entry & Keyless Start
  • Steering Wheel Controls
  • Remote Trunk Release
  • Back-Up Camera
  • 6 Speakers

Saftey & Security Features

  • Lane Departure Warning (Optional)
  • Driver & Passenger Air Bag
  • Front & Rear Head Air Bag
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Child Safety Locks
  • Cross-Traffic Alert
  • Front Side Air Bag

Total MSRP: $32,060

*a little over $300 less than the 2017 model*

*MSRP (Manufactured Suggested Retail Price)*

Fuel Economy: 26 MPG & 3.8 Gallons per 100 Miles

*same MPG & gallons per mile with the 2017 model*

Check out the (@mitsucars) 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.4 AWC Auto Review! #DriveMitsubishi

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So tell me, what do you think about the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and commenting and until next time, be blessed and stay safe.

Love & light…xo!

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Lifestyle | How to Choose a Word of the Year

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In my last post, I revealed my 2018 Word of the Year (WOTY). Although I’ve been coming up with a WOTY since 2016, this year I was prompted by my Lara Casey Goal Planner to add an anchor scripture to go along with my word. One I figured out my word, coming up with a scripture was relatively easy because I knew exactly what kind of scriptures I should search for.

But, back to my WOTY post… I received several messages, asking how come up with a WOTY. Not knowing where to start is totally understandable. I was in the same position a few years ago. Excited and ready to choose a word for the New Year, I had no clue how to pick just ONE word. So, if you haven’t decided on your 2018 word, below are a few tips to help get you started!

RELATED: 5 REASONS WHY YOUR VISION BOARD WON’T WORK

How to Choose a Word of the Year

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Your WOTY should:

  1. Be aligned with your yearly goals
    • list a few yearly goals and start thinking of words that are aligned with those goals
    • refer to your vision board for inspiration as well
  2. Help guide the work you do
    • think of words that correlate with your daily work and lifestyle
  3. Inspire you Daily
    • every time you see and speak your WOTY it should ignite some excitement, joy, or another positive emotion

When choosing your WOTY ask yourself:

  1. Can this word apply to more than one area of my life?
    • think about words that can be used in at least 3 area of your life
    • Example: WOTY – Revive // Areas of my life I want to REVIVE: (1) faith, (2) finances, and (3) marriage
  2. What do I want more AND less of in my life?
    • write down what want more AND less of in your life this year (BE HONEST WITH YOURSELF)
    • look back at your list and figure out what words can help you achieve those things

how to choose a word of the year (1)

I hope this post is helpful, and I hope it encourages you to come up with your 2018 WOTY. If you do, be sure to let me know which word you chose below! Thanks for reading and commenting and until next time, be blessed and stay safe.

Love & light…xo!

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Life Update + My Word for 2018

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HAPPY NEW YEAR!

I know, I know. It’s been a while. 4 months tomorrow to be exact. My last post was about preparing for a new season, and it’s ironic because looking back I realize that after publishing that post I was about to enter into a new season myself. It was a season that would require my full attention, meaning I would have to step away from one thing to focus on another. So, I decided to push pause on creating new content for WNJ in order to nurture my other brand, Fearless Woman I am. I struggled with this decision for weeks but in the end, I knew it was best. Here’s what I accomplished as a result:

  • Successfully Executed FWIAM’s 1st Vision Board Event 
    • Held in Columbia, Maryland
  • Created & Showcased 2 FWIAM Products
    •  Pillow & T-Shirt
  • Hosted our 2nd Annual Blessing Bag Drive for Generosity:Global
    • Collected & Made 75+ Blessing Bags for the Homeless in my hometown, Baltimore City

Accomplishing these goals gave me a sense of pride. Yes, pride. I am not ashamed to say that I am proud of myself! For almost 2 years, I was unsure about how to grow FWIAM. There were times when I had absolutely no clue what to do next, but despite the uncertainty giving up was never an option. I prayed for clarity and direction, and once I (finally) sat still long enough to hear what God was telling me, I knew it was GO TIME! I stepped aside and allowed Him to order my steps. There was no way I could have executed my vision trying to juggle both brands. Not the way I was doing it anyway. So, in the end, I am thankful for the unplanned, yet very necessary pause I took with blogging.

Learning to step aside and let God take control is tough, but it’s always worth it in the end.

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Propelling FWIAM wasn’t the only thing I did during my 4-month hiatus. I was knee-deep in my 1st 6-week fitness boot camp with my husband. This boot camp was also unexpected. Darrius was all signed up and ready to go, and I was planning on being his biggest cheerleader. Afterall, I was already walking a mile every other morning, and getting a lot better with my food choices. I was good, so I figured this boot camp would be great for him. He needed to catch up with me!

Well, fast forward a few days and I’m walking into the gym on Day 1 of the 6-week boot camp with him. Not what you expected, huh? Me either! But after hearing more about the process and reading some of the literature Darrius brought home, boot camp didn’t seem that bad. So I joined him. As time went on, I realized that he needed me to keep him on track with the clean eating and I needed him to help keep me on track with the consistent workouts. After losing several pounds and more inches in 6 weeks than I thought possible, Darrius and I actually joined the gym and have made the decision to make this lifestyle change, together.

* Praise Report: After the 6 weeks, Darrius went from diabetic to pre-diabetic and I have been fibroid free since August! 

I was thoroughly enjoying my life during those 4 months! FWIAM was flourishing, Darrius and I were getting healthier, we were spending a lot of time volunteering, as well as enjoying moments with our family and friends. Things were flowing effortlessly, and I felt like I was at my best; spiritually, mentally and physically. There were a few bumps in the road, but nothing too major. That was until a few days after Thanksgiving…

My brother-in-law, Hakim, unexpectedly passed away right after the holiday. Darrius and I were in Delaware with the family, laughing and having THE BEST time during Thanksgiving weekend, so to get this news after just seeing our brother days earlier was devastating, to say the least. My priority since that day has been making sure that my husband is OK, both mentally and spiritually. Yes, he and our marriage are always a top priority, but in this instance, it’s a little different.

Needless to say, this tragic incident has left both me and Darrius feeling out of it. I’ve noticed that some of our routines have been disrupted, and rightly so. The grieving and healing process takes time. However, around the Christmas holiday, I was thinking about the upcoming year and how I wanted things to get back on track. I don’t think, after such a huge loss, things will ever be “normal” again, but creating a new normal is definitely doable. Which leads me to my word of the year which is, REVIVE.

Revive: to give new strength or energy to

My goal in 2018 is to give new strength and energy to: 

  • My Faith
    • complete the Bible in one year (via the YouVersion App)
    • invite at least 1 person (or couple) to church once a quarter
    • become a partner at Bridgeway
  • My Health & Wellness
    • resume training at our gym at least 3 days a week
    • continue clean eating & increasing water intake
    • begin swimming again
  • My Marriage 
    • more date nights
    • more trips & events
    • more “phone-free” evenings
  • My Finances 
    • continue growing business
    • create new streams of income
    • TITHE + SAVE
  • Certain Relationships
    • make more memories with family
    • strengthen current friendships
    • cultivate new relationships

My reference scripture for my word of the year is:

“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” ~ Isaiah 43:19

So tell me, what is your word of the year and why? Let me know below! 

I know this post was a long one, but I really wanted to share what’s been going on in my world for the past 4 months. I’ve missed creating new content and engaging with you, so get ready for the revival of WNJ. 2018 is going to be AMAZING. I can feel it, and I hope you’re ready because I’m taking you along for the ride! Thanks, as always, for reading and commenting and until next time, be blessed and stay safe.

Love & light…xo!

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Spiritual Wellness | Forgiveness + Grace

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We often think of forgiveness as something we extend to other people, but how often do we forgive ourselves? How often do we extend ourselves the grace we so generously extend to others? Not sure about you, but forgiving and extending myself some grace is something I constantly work on.

At the top of 2017, I made a few declarations. I declared that I would (1) lose a certain amount of weight, (2) gain a certain amount of followers, (3) spend time nurturing old friendships, and possibly, foster new ones, and (4) save a certain amount of money. I am pleased to have made improvements in some areas, but not all. The “not all” part really irritates me. I have been tirelessly working to achieve certain goals, and to know that I have fallen short in some areas does not sit well with me.

Related: 7 Practical Ways to Deal with Stress

Nordstrom Rack Gold Dress

Dress: Want & Need, Nordstrom Rack (Another Option) // Flats: Melissa, Nordstrom Rack (Same Designer, Another Option)

Thankfully, my attitude has changed. Granted I have not met certain goals, but I have decided to extend myself some grace. I have also forgiven myself for making a few missteps along the way. Not losing those pounds, saving that amount of money, or spending time with a few friends is not the end of the world. While my intentions were good, and my heart was in the right place, things happen. Life happens, and that is OK. Thankfully, God has granted me a 2nd (3rd and 4th) chance to “get it right”.  Now, it is up to me to get back on track.

Don’t forget to extend yourself the same grace and forgiveness that you extend to others.

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Related: 11 Things You Should Do Every Day

Through personal Bible study, and talking to my husband (and certain family members), I have realized that being so hard on myself is not healthy. Feeling guilty or disappointed is natural, but you should not let those feelings fester. Settling into unhappiness and disappointment can quickly lead to depression. That is a road no one wants to go down. Instead, be patient with yourself, forgive yourself, and extend yourself a little grace. Afteall, if God can forgive you, and if He can constantly extend grace and mercy towards you, daily, why can’t you do the same for yourself?

Be kind to yourself, forgive yourself, and be patient with yourself.

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Nordstrom Rack Gold Dress

Nordstrom Rack Gold Dress

Bracelets: Monet, Macy’s (Another Option)

Forgiveness and Extending Grace
So tell me, have you been too hard on yourself lately? What do you need to forgive yourself for? Let me know!

As always, thanks for reading and commenting. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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* Linkups: Visible Monday, Style Me Wednesday, Fabulous Friday * 

Auto Review | 2017 Genesis G80

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I attended the Washington Auto Show back in January and as you can imagine, I saw and sat inside of several large, mid-size, small and luxury cars. However, the car that stuck out to me the most was the Genesis. After sitting inside of and learning more about the Genesis G80 and the Genesis G90, I was in awe of one of the newest luxury vehicles on the market. I secretly wished that one day I’d be able to test drive one of the cars and to my surprise, my wish came true!  A few weeks back, I test drove the 2017 Genesis G80 for a week. The experience was nothing short of amazing.

2017 Genesis G80

At first glance, the Himalayan Gray 4-door 5 passenger luxury mid-size vehicle was absolutely stunning. Sleek and polished in design, I was already sold! Once inside the swooning continued. To say the interior is spacious would be an understatement. There is plenty of legroom for the driver, front seat passenger, and backseat passengers. The plush flooring, full-grain leather seats, and chic technology settings were extremely impressive. Below are several other key features.

Key Features

– 9.2-inch HD Touchscreen Display with Split Screen (ability to check navigation & audio at the same time)

– Integrated Memory System for Driver Seat, Exterior Mirrors, Steering Wheel, etc.

– AM/FM/SiriusXM Radio, HD Radio™, Bluetooth® Connection & Calling

– 9 Airbag System (dual front, front & rear sides, driver’s knee & curtain)

– Panoramic Sunroof & Power Sunshades for Back Seat

– Full-Grain Seats with 3 Levels of Heating & Cooling

– Lane Keep Assist (detects lane departure)

– Automatic Emergency Braking

– Apple CarPlay & Android Auto

– Hands-free Smart Trunk

– Automatic High Beams

– Blind Spot Detection

* Price Starts at $54,550

While driving the Genesis G80 back and for to work, as well as back and forth to Dover, Delaware, I felt extremely secure. The lane departure and blind spot features made me feel even safer. I was also impressed with the traffic alerts and navigation system. Not once did I have an issue with directions while driving. When my husband wasn’t being lulled to sleep by the smooth ride, he and I enjoyed the crisp surround-sound system. We even got a chance to test the panoramic sunroof, thanks to good weather.

The 2017 Genesis G80 is a mid-size luxury car that’s incredibly sleek in design. (@GenesisUSA )

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So tell me, what do you think about the 2017 Genesis G80? Does it look like a vehicle you would drive?  Let me know!

If you ever get a chance to test drive the Genesis G80, do so. Especially if you’re in the market for a luxury mid-size vehicle. This one will wow you, I’m sure of it! Thanks for reading and until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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* Drive Shop USA provided me with this vehicle to test drive. All opinions are my own. *

Auto Review | 2017 Mazda CX-9 Car Review + a Life Update

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Hello and Happy April! You’re probably wondering where I’ve been, right? Let’s just say the month of March was C R A Z Y. No complaints at all, but sometimes life happens, priorities shift and you have to go with it. However, despite the crazy month, I was able to skip town and travel to Atlanta, Georgia for a few days. I planned this trip back in December as a surprise for my husband’s 30th birthday.

A lover of African American History & Culture, especially Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., I knew he would be thrilled to visit The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site. My husband is also a Coke drinker, so visiting the World of Coca-Cola was the icing on the cake! Thanks to Mazda, I was able to chauffeur the birthday boy around all weekend in the 2017 Mazda CX-9. Take a look!

Mazda CX-9 Car Review

2017 Mazda CX-9

Related: 2017 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD Review

The 4-door Mazda CX-9 provided a smooth ride while driving in and around the city each day. Although the body of the car is a bit large, the backup camera made maneuvering in and out of parking spaces a breeze. Just like the Mazda CX-3, I felt very safe while driving the CX-9. I was also in control of the steering wheel. I’m not a fan of driving lightweight vehicles; the heavier and sturdier the car the better.  Below are a few other Mazda CX-9 key features:

Key Features:

– Bluetooth, AUX and USB Inputs (4)

– Heated Front Seats & Power Moonroof

– Wheel with Audio & Cruise Controls

– 8” Color Display with Rear Camera

– Auto On/Off LED Headlights

– Leather Trimmed Upholstery

– Push Button Engine Start

– Blind Spot Monitoring

– 7 passenger seating

Price: $41,810 (with additional features) 

Fuel Economy: 24 MPG

Check out this 2017 Mazda CX-9 auto review! #wnjdrives

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So tell me, what do you think about the 2017 Mazda CX-9? Would a car like this fit your lifestyle? Let me know! 

As always, thanks for reading. I’ll be back to posting more frequently very soon, but in the meantime, I encourage you to sign up for my weekly newsletter, The WNJ Insider. You can look forward to the latest edition every Friday at 12 noon. If you want to be inspired and if you want to keep up with me, become an Insider!  Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Auto Review | 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander

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I’ve been asked a few times why I post car reviews and how it correlates with the WNJ brand. It’s really quite simple. Driving is something I do every day and as a Lifestyle Content Creator, my purpose is to share certain lifestyle experiences in hopes to inspire you in some way. Many of you, myself included, are or will be in the market for a new car in the near future. If I can make your car buying decision a little easier, why not? That said, let’s get into my latest car review!

Related: 2017 Washington Auto Show Recap

A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of test driving my first loaner of the year! The 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander was my companion for 7 days. Thanks to the fold down back seat(s) and a spacious trunk, the Outlander was extremely helpful during grocery store and Target runs. During the week I drove the car to and from Baltimore and D.C. and to my surprise, I didn’t have to fill the gas the entire time I had to the loaner.

2017 Mitsubishi Outlander

2017 Mitsubishi Outlander

This 4-door SUV comfortably seats 7-passenger and the Quartz Brown/Black color was very attractive. The SUV also has Government 5-Star Safety Ratings. Knowing that the Outlander is a safe and secure vehicle made my rides even more comfortable. For more specific information take a look at my list of pros and cons, as well as the price, below.

Price: $32,390.00 (with additional features) 

Fuel Economy: 26 MPG and 3.8 Gallons per 100 Miles

Pros

  • Handsfree Link System with Bluetooth Technology
  • One-touch Start/Stop (OSS) Engine Switch
  • 3rd Row Cupholder & Storage Space
  • Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • 7-Passenger Seating
  • Rear-view Camera

Cons

  • 2nd Row Seats Don’t Go All the Way Down
  • 60/40 Split Fold Down in 2nd Row
  • Leather Seats

2017 Mitsubishi Outlander

2017 Mitsubishi Outlander

So tell me, what do you think about the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander? Let me know!

Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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