inspiration Archives - Page 7 of 10

#FearlessWoman Feature | Ruby of Ruby Ella Photography + Brown Girl With A Camera

March 20, 2015 by Whitney 8 Comments

I met today’s #FearlessWoman back in college and to our surprise we reconnected, thanks to social media, a few months ago to work together on a project. Ruby Melton, the woman behind the lens, has quickly taken her love for photography and storytelling and created a business that’s thriving daily! Ruby’s images have been displayed on Travel Noire, Jetsether, and she’s been featured on Geotraveler’s Niche. Ruby has also founded Brown Girl with a Camera (#BGWAC) and Brown Guys with a Camera (#BGYWAC) in hopes to empower, “connect and celebrate both women and men of color photographers worldwide.”

From lifestyle, travel, head-shots, and more this Maryland native captures it all! Being able to tell a story through images is something I will forever be a fan of. Take a read below to find out even more about this Maryland based photographer and entrepreneur on a mission.

What’s a typical day for Ruby?

A typical day starts out around 7 a.m., as my boyfriend is getting ready for work my son is either up or close to it. Once he’s wide awake, I clean and feed him and we watch some of his favorite shows together. Since I work from home and have my son during the day, I have to be very organized if I am to accomplish anything. I refer to my journal to see what’s on the agenda for the week and for the day and start hammering out each task. My son usually takes a nap right before noon and that gives me free time to answer emails, update my blog and post to social media. Once he’s wake I’m back on mommy duty until my boyfriend gets home from work. I get a lot of work done late at night.

What inspired you to create Ruby Ella Photography & @browngirlwithacamera ?

Ruby Ella Photography was born out of a nickname my volleyball coach gave me in college. One day she just started calling me Rubella, which is short for Ruby + Cinderella, and it caught on. Fast forward to when I was deciding on a name for my photography business, I thought it would be cool to use the nickname my coach gave me but add the “y” back to my first name. Thus, Ruby Ella Photography was born. I’ve always loved taking pictures and documenting parts of my life always appealed to me – this was way before there was a thing called social media. I knew it was time to step out on faith and start my own business when I was working on my own thing more than working on what I was getting paid to do.

Trust and believe in yourself and what you are setting out to achieve. – @THE_BGWAC

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I created Brown Girl With A Camera within weeks of returning from a volunteer trip with Girls Going Global in Costa Rica. I accompanied the non-profit as a chaperon and photographer on their yearly trip. I’m a huge Instagram head and follow a lot of photography themed accounts. The more accounts I came across the more I saw the lack in diversity for those featured. I realized how cool would it be to create something just for women of color photographers. I wanted to give us a bigger voice, a space where we could be celebrated, inspired and uplifted. Since its inception we’ve hosted meet-ups in NYC, D.C., and Johannesburg, SA.

Who are your top 3 women inspirations, famous or non-famous, and why?

Serena Williams is the epitome of what driven looks like. She has all of the traits that I want to embody, like discipline, focus and a great work ethic. Coupled with her raw talent she is a force to be reckoned with.

Evita Robinson, creator of Nomadness Travel Tribe. She’s created an astounding travel community that truly embodies the word family. She’s the definition of the woman who didn’t take no for an answer. I had the opportunity to do a short film where I followed her around for a day as she and her team were putting on their 3rd Year Tribe Anniversary party in NYC. It was an amazing experience!

Danielle Finney is an amazing natural light photographer out of D.C. I came to know of her last year after I created #BGWAC and I’ve been a fan ever since. She is where I’d like to be in 3 to 5 years. Very business savvy and her brand has truly become a staple.

@THE_BGWAC is a space where women of color photographers can be celebrated, inspired and uplifted.

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One piece of advice you have for women entrepreneurs?

Trust and believe in yourself and what you are setting out to achieve. The journey will have highs and lows and on the lows and that’s when you have to remember the most why you’re doing it in the first place.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I would love to continue to make an impact as an advocate for women of color photographer’s through #BGWAC, expand to other platforms and collaborate with brands and organizations that are in line with our values. I have a huge heart for giving back and would like to help mentor the#BGWAC in the making. My goal is to be a go-to lifestyle and travel photographer and a public speaker, using my story to inspire women alike world wide.

Keep Up With Ruby

Website // BGWAC // BGYWAC // Twitter

#FearlessWoman Feature | Krystal of The Feisty House

March 17, 2015 by Whitney Leave a Comment

Today’s #FearlessWoman feature comes from the lifestyle blogger and budding entrepreneur, Krystal Scott. The author of The Feisty House lives with her husband and new baby girl Maya in New York. She’s been a virtual source of inspiration for me for a while now. Her lifestyle blog has several motivational posts, natural hair and makeup tips, thought provoking interviews and more.

Check out this Fearless Woman Feature with Krystal Scott, author of @thefeistyhouse. #FWIAM

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Krystal has a natural zest for life and it shows through her writing, photos, and how she lives day to day. Her entrepreneurial plans are inspiring and I can’t wait to see what’s next for her! Find out more about Krystal in her interview below.

What’s a typical day for Krystal?

My days are a bit insane! I’ve been trying to wake up earlier in the day (so I can exercise), but my average wake time is about 7:30 AM. Then I get ready for work, grab breakfast and pack a lunch. I try to be out the door by 9:00 AM. I arrive at work at 9:30 AM and I work nonstop until my lunch break. I use that time to check my blog emails, do a quick check-in on social media, etc. I schedule my blog posts, blog-related tweets and Facebook posts as well as my blog-related Instagrams because I don’t really have the time at work to do all of that.

I have been leaving work between 5:00 PM and 5:30 PM, which is great. I head home and spend some time alone before I start dinner and do some chores. After dinner I’m usually blogging and checking email, and I do that between8:00 PM and 11:00 PM. I try to write two posts within that time, but some nights I only get to the post for the next day! Blogging and having a full-time job definitely isn’t easy, and I’m constantly adjusting my schedule so that I can blog and also have time for friends and family.

What inspired you to create The Feisty House?

I started The Feisty House in graduate school when I was learning about how to take care of my naturally kinky hair. I’d been natural my entire life (never used chemical straighteners or even hair dye), but I quickly learned that I was doing everything the wrong way! I used The Feisty House to share what I was learning about my hair with other women. Fast forward five years, and The Feisty House is much bigger than natural hair!

The blog has involved into a space where I discuss and share inspirations related to lifestyle (personal style, home life, beauty) and entrepreneurship (including my DREAM JOB Interviews with Black female entrepreneurs and blogging tips).

Who are your top 3 women inspirations, famous or non-famous, and why?

I could say my aunt and grandmothers and be done so easily! These women work so much. They’ve worked hard my entire life. It’s been amazing to see with my own eyes what women can do for themselves when they put their minds to it.

I’m also inspired by Arianna Huffington (I’m reading On Becoming Fearless for the second time this year), and all the entrepreneurs I’ve interviewed for The Feisty House. It’s amazing to learn from women who have looked fear in the face and started their own businesses (and become successful!) in spite of being afraid.

“Share… You have no idea how your experience is going to affect someone.” ~ @TheFeistyHouse

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One piece of advice you have for women entrepreneurs?

Share your stories. Because you have no idea how your experience is going to affect someone else. You may be just what another woman needs in order to make the leap into entrepreneurship. Those stories are so valuable and such an important source of strength for me and other women who are considering working for themselves.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I’ll probably still be living in New York, but also living in either South Florida or Jamaica for half of the year. And I’ll be working for myself, FULL-TIME! The Lord has yet to reveal to me exactly what I’ll be doing, but I know I’m on the right track. I’m excited about the future!

Keep Up With Krystal

Blog // Instagram // Facebook // Twitter

Inspiration | #DEARME Advice to My Younger Self

March 11, 2015 by Whitney 2 Comments

Hey there! It’s been a while since I’ve penned inspirational content. I think because I’ve been doing a lot of self reflection for the past 3 months, I just wasn’t feeling as inspired as I use to. When I really think about it, in some way, I felt I was forcing myself to come up with inspiring content. It wasn’t as natural as it was before. I’m not one to “fake the funk” so taking a break from those kind of posts was necessary. You ever have those moments? If you’re like me, just know that it’s OK. We all go through our slumps. That’s life.

Thankfully, I was recently jolted by Shameless Maya to get back to my inspiring self. After watching her recent video I was inspired (haha) to create my own #DearMe video. Before I took the step to record mine, I saw the Good Morning America crew share their videos too! I took that as a sign to upload my story ASAP. Here’s my advice to my younger self.

So tell me, do you have any advice for your younger self? Let me know!

In honor of Women’s History Month, I thought it’d be a good way to inspire other women to think about what they’d say to their younger selves. I invite you to film and upload your #DearMe videos too! You can also share your thoughts below. As always, thanks for reading and watching. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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#FearlessWoman Feature | Cortnie of Love, Cortnie

March 10, 2015 by Whitney 12 Comments

I’m thrilled to announce the beginning of my #FearlessWoman series, in honor of Women’s History Month. I’m constantly inspired by those around me, especially strong and driven women. I’ve been blessed to meet and form pretty awesome relationships with several dynamic women who happen to be entrepreneurs as well. I think of these women as Fearless because with all they have going on in their day-to-day lives, they still manage to do so much. From working 9-5’s to running households and small businesses, raising children (and husbands, hehe), these women do it all and they do it with style.

Cortnie Hutchinson, a Columbia, MD native and now a Miami resident, definitely fits the #FearlessWoman criteria. I consider Cortnie a friend and I’ve been inspired by her drive and style since we met at the Starbucks in Columbia Mall, back in 2011. From the moment we met, I knew she was destined for greatness. Not only is Cortnie a stylish blogger, but also a driven small business owner. Her handbag line, Love, Cortnie is all kinds of fabulous! Read ahead to find out more about this #FearlessWoman making things happen.

1. What’s a typical day for Cortnie?

Oh boy. I wake up and wrap up any orders that are being shipped out that day. I take them to the post office and then proceed to run any other errands while I’m out. Which will basically include local fabric stores for basic supplies and possibly the grocery store. I get home and jump online for maybe an hour. Check emails and send out shipping notifications for the orders that shipped. I may do a post or 2 on social media while I’m at it. Once I’m done with that I may eat something. If I’m lucky. I’m getting better at it. Once all of that is out of the way I get to work. I’m working on new orders or maybe even a new design all together. This goes on for the majority of my day depending on how much I have to do. I usually stop in the evening around 8-ish. I’ll relax a bit, eat and watch tv. Then I’m back online. Possibly answering more emails, browsing some of my favorite sites or ordering more supplies. I’m never in bed before 12am.

2. What inspired you to create StyleLust Pages & Love, Cortnie?

My blog StyleLust Pages was originally supposed to be a way to document and share my styling escapades. It didn’t last long and quickly became a personal style blog. Love,Cortnie didn’t get its start until about 2 years later. I was in between jobs and found myself with extra time on my hands. I had always wanted to learn how to sew and it was the perfect time. I had my grandmother teach me. It was important to me that she did. She knows how to basically do anything. I’m playing around with some scrap fabric on her sewing machine in her kitchen and mentioned it would be cool to make a clutch. We ended up going to a local fabric store and grabbed some supplies and she came back and taught me.

I always had an idea of the clutch I wanted to own, but could never actually find them in stores. Clutches weren’t a big accessory at the time and the ones available were either too small, boring, all black, etc. So I figured I’d make the kind I was looking for. I asked my blog readers what they thought and encouraged me to do it. They played a big part in how and why I got started. I learned to sew, made my first clutch and then launched my first 3 styles in my Etsy shop about a week later. I’ve now done over 150 styles to date and have expanded into totes and bucket bags in the last few months.

3. Who are your top 3 women inspirations, famous or non-famous, and why?

My mom and my grandmother are amazing women. Amazing role models, generous and honest people. They’ve supported me since day one and I love them dearly. They occasionally play a role in new clutch designs too. Each have had bags named after them. I’ll also say Tory Burch is an inspiration. I remember reading an article about how she got her start. It also happened to be in her kitchen. I ripped that article out of the magazine and saved it. I still have it. It definitely serves as inspiration.

4. One piece of advice you have for women entrepreneurs?

Work hard, be determined, don’t settle and be consistent. If you love it you can make it your full-time job and never feel like you’re actually working. It’s an awesome feeling to be able to support yourself doing something you love and enjoy. Just go for it!

5. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

5 years from now I’d love to have expanded my brand even more. Each year I see growth and I want to keep growing. I’ve been able to manage doing everything on my own. In 5 years I’ll have a Love,Cortnie team, my pieces will be manufactured due to growth and I’ll be selling my products in large retail chains across the country and internationally.

Keep Up With Cortnie

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Lifestyle | Why Vision Boards Are Important

February 25, 2015 by Whitney 7 Comments

The wait is FINALLY over – today is the day I reveal my 2015 vision board! In the past I’ve shared some vision board tips, as well as my 2014 board. Last year’s board was extremely helpful in keeping me on track and on task. Thankfully, I was able to accomplish a huge amount of what I’d planned. I even accomplished some goals that I didn’t even include on my board. Literally watching my vision board “come to life” fueled the fire and I was determined to take my time in creating a very specific vision board for 2015.

2015 Vision Board

I’ve been asked several times why vision boards are important. We’ve all heard that seeing is believing, right? As a visual learner (my) vision boards serve as a daily and tangible check list. Seeing what I want to achieve through images and phrases has become vital for my success. I can talk about what I want to do and the plans I have all day, but without a physical reminder I’d be all over the place.

Vision boards are daily reminders to help keep you on track and on task.

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As I mentioned earlier, vision boards keep you on track and on task. These boards bring clarity to your vision. Writing your goals with pen and paper is a great start, but creating vision boards allow you to go deeper. Seeing your favorite quotes and powerful images on a regular basis get and keep you excited for what’s to come!

2014 Vision Board

Vision boards are also important because they reinforce your purpose. If you keep your board in a place where you look every day, you’ll have no problems remembering what you’re working towards. I still hang mine on the wall over my desk. I go in my office everyday so I’m forced to see it. This definitely helps reinforce and reaffirm my purpose daily.

Reinforce and reaffirm your purpose on a daily basis by creating a vision board.

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So tell me, what’s on your vision board for 2015? Why do you think vision boards are important? Let me know!

This year is moving right along and I hope you’ve all taken some time to think about your goals for the upcoming months. I’m very excited about my year and I hope my excitement has rubbed off on you. Stay focused, stay positive and remember that it’s never too late to start a vision board. Start today if you have to you! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

#WNJInspired | 5 Podcasts You Should Listen to

January 21, 2015 by Whitney 2 Comments

Remember my slight obsession with audiobooks? Well, I’m still slightly obsessed – nothing has changed there. However, I’m really getting into podcasts lately. They’re GREAT and there are so many to choose from. If you’re not 100% sure what a podcast is, it’s a pretty simple concept to digest. According Google, a podcast is a digital audio file made available on the Internet for downloading to a computer or portable media player, typically available as a series, new installments of which can be received by subscribers automatically. In laymen’s terms, it’s a topical series “talk show” that you can download on iTunes and listen to from your computer or smartphone. That said, here are 5 podcasts to listen to, like right now.

* See Also: 5 Motivating Podcasts

1. Myleik Teele – As the founder and CEO of curlBox, Myleik’s advice and inspiring words are nothing short of amazing. I started listening to her podcasts last September. I was searching for something motivational to listen to during my lunch break. Of course, I took to social media and found out about Myleik’s podcast on, #MyTaughtYou. I’m a fan of her no-nonsense business and life advice and I regularly check her Instagram hashtag #mytaughtyou for new books to read, places to travel and more.

2. Daily Hope – I ventured over to the religious & spiritual podcasts and found this amazing and uplifting source. I’ve been a fan of Rick Warren since his phenomenal book, Purpose Driven Life. That book literally began my “live on purpose” transformation and I’m sure this podcast will only enhance my spiritual wellness. Right now Warren is going through a series on transformation. Each episode is a 25 minute expert of his sermon, so it’s like being able to take church with you wherever you go.

5 podcasts you should be listening to right now. #wnjinspired

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3. The Potter’s Touch – Like Warren, T.D. Jakes shares excerpts of his sermons. His delivery is strong and powerful – there’s no way you can listen and not be blessed. Every time I listen to an episode I literally feel like I’m sitting right in front of him. I suggest this podcast (and Rick Warren’s) to those who may not have a church home, but still want to be fed the Word of God.

4. TED Radio Hour – If you’ve ever listened to or watched TED Talks then you have a pretty good idea of what this podcast is about. According to their website, the podcast is based on Talks given by riveting speakers on the world-renowned TED stage, each show is centered on a common theme and injects soundscapes and conversations that bring these ideas to life. Hosted by Guy Raz, some of the topics so far have included the power of branding, ways to find quiet in our busy lives, and much more.

5. Mattie & Chris – From the first episode I was hooked! It’s no secret that I’m a fan of Mattie James and her lifestyle blog, Mattieologie. She’s actually been featured on WNJ and her interview was pretty awesome, if I do say so myself. The husband and wife duo, Mattie & Chris, talk about everything from their charming life as parents, current events, relationships and more. I really enjoy hearing both a man and woman’s perspective on different topics.

So tell me, are you a fan of podcasts? If so, which ones are your favorites? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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#WNJInspired | 7 Vision Board Ideas to Make Your Vision Board Come to Life

December 16, 2014 by Whitney 12 Comments

I just started reading Sun Stand Still and the book talks about having audacious faith. The book couldn’t have been more on time because for the past few months, I’ve been praying and trying to figure out how in the world I’m going to achieve some (very) bold goals next year. I’m a firm believer in faith, but audacious faith is a whole other level. So while reading the book, I started my 2015 vision board. My goal is to make my vision board come to life and having audacious faith is the only way I’ll be able to do so. That said, let’s check out 7 Ways to Make Your Vision Board Come to Life!

1. BEGIN. So many people have asked “how to start a vision board”. It’s simple; just begin. Commit to making one and go for it!

2. Be Specific. In order to make your vision board really come to life, be specific with the words, phrases and pictures you decided to add. On my 2014 board I had a phrase that read, “work out at least 30 minutes 3 time a week”. That is very specific and although I didn’t live up to that as much as I would have liked, the specific phrase and goal was clear.

3. Keep Track of Your Progress. What I did this year was thumbtack my vision board ideas to a cork board. Every time I achieved a goal, I took whatever picture or word down that symbolized that goal and put it in a jar. At the end of this year, whatever is left on my board, I will re-evaluate and see if that goal fits into my 2015 plans. If so, I’ll figure out how to tweak it. In doing so, I hope it won’t be left hanging at the end of next year.

7 Ways to Make Your Vision Board Come to Life #wnjinspired

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4. Create a Board with Friends & Family. When creating a vision board, it’s fun to invite a few family members or friends to join you. You can share and verbalize your goals with the people you trust. In a way, sharing your goals out loud helps hold you accountable. When you tell someone your plans, they know and can remind you of your goals throughout the year.

5. Refer Back. Throughout the year, refer back to your board. What goals have you already achieved? What goals do you want to tweak or even add to your board? It’s OK to change your goals; just be sure they’re specific, sensible, and well thought out.

In order for your vision board to come to life, you have to SEE it on a daily basis.

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6. Make it Visible. Hang your vision board on a wall you walk by or look at everyday. In order for your vision board to come to life, you have to SEE it on a daily basis. Seeing the board will serve as daily motivation, as well as a daily reminder to get things done! I actually took a picture of my 2014 vision board and for a few weeks out of the year, that picture was my lock screen on my phone. It was constant reminder of my purpose and it really helped keep me on track.

7. Be Encouraged. Some days, weeks, or even months it may seem like your vision board just isn’t working. Don’t get discouraged. Achieving goals takes time, effort and persistence. Don’t give up; keep going and remember that tomorrow is another day to get it right! 😉

So tell me, have you started working on your 2015 vision board yet? If so, what are some of your goals for the new year? Let me know!

For more vision board ideas or ways to stay inspired, check out my tips on how to stay motivated. Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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LifeStyle Feature | Marie Young of GoodLooknOut

October 22, 2014 by Whitney 18 Comments

I’m really excited about today’s post because it’s another installment of my LifeStyle Features here on WNJ! I met this blogger at an event in D.C. 2 (or so) years ago. I remember thinking to myself, “she’s the cutest pregnant woman…ever!” I soon realized that her warm personality and sweet spirit matched her outer beauty.

Marie, creator of GoodLooknOut, is your “your (online) big sis who’s always lookin’ out”! GoodLooknOut is a site that keeps you up to date with the latest trends, introduces you to the hottest bloggers, and points you in the right direction for great meals, entertainment and so much more. Trust me when I say, it’s a site that you’ll want to bookmark, for sure. Enjoy Marie’s interview and don’t forget to stop by GoodLooknOut to experience all its greatness for yourself!

ABOUT YOU + YOUR STYLE

Where are you from and what’s your occupation?

I’m from Pasadena, California but I currently reside in Sacramento, California. I am a woman of many hats, however currently, I’m a self employed Digital Strategist for a few folks.

How do you define your personal style?

My personal style is eclectic + minimalist. I like balance in my wardrobe, so I may wear all black one day with a signature accessory piece to set my whole outfit off.

Name 5 must have wardrobe staples every woman should own?

– Black Strappy heels

– Daisy Dukes

– Black pants

– The cutest white tee

– Gold sandals

ABOUT GoodLooknOut

How long have you been a blogger?

For a little over three years and it’s been a very interesting ride too!

What inspired you to start GLO and what is your vision for GLO?

I was unemployed, bored and pregnant! I read a lot of blogs and decided, hey, I can do this. Never thought I’d go psycho crazy and fall in love with it! My vision for GLO is to create an online destination, for women to share, learn and most importantly be inspired into growth. You know, look out for one another!

What is the definition of a GLO girl?

GLO Girl is witty, caring with a intense desire to help a fellow sista out. Pretty simple!

What’s the best and toughest thing about being a blogger?

The best thing about blogging are the relationships you form with other bloggers from all over the world. I’ve made friends with people, I’d never come to know in my usual day-to-day routine. I can go to any city and always find something fun to get into because of the relationships I’ve formed with bloggers from all over.

The toughest thing about blogging is being able to stomach trolls and negative comments. As bloggers, you put yourself out there for the world to see and, unfortunately, not everyone will like what you put out there. Some bloggers don’t even dare to read the comments after pressing the publish button and I know exactly why. Getting over the hump of not caring what others say or think is easier said than done.

ABOUT YOUR LIFESTYLE

What makes you happy & what inspires you?

Growth inspires me and makes me happy! I love the feeling of mastering something or being able to take a lesson from an experience. The relationship I’ve formed with myself and my higher power really keeps me going too. I love the fact that through faith, I’ve been able to always see the glass half full and “go with it”, so to speak. I’m also inspired by people who speak life into themselves and into others. You know those people you meet who make you want to do better, challenge you and have the unique ability to make you feel uncomfortable. These are the people my mind has always been attracted to. I find them and then I do what I can to keep them around.

As a wife, mother, and entrepreneur, how do you find balance in your everyday life?

I actually try my hardest to follow this zen checklist I created a few weeks back. It took me until 29 years of age (omg did I just reveal that) to realize that life without a sense of balance is no life at all. I’ve tried hard to take hold of my life with proper time management, scheduling time to do absolutely nothing and ensuring that I’m spending time cultivating my creative needs. Don’t get me wrong, there are still those times where I absolutely FAIL and nothing gets done AT ALL!

What are 3 things you do daily to maintain a healthy lifestyle?

(1) I go to boot camp three times a week, (2) try to eat as many small meals as possible throughout the day and (3) drink an insane amount of water, sans any soda whatsoever. This is the only way, I feel, you will make it in this process, junk food infested world.

Any advice for someone who’s trying to find their passion and purpose in life?

Stay focused, stay committed and stay in your creative space as much as humanly possible. Things don’t always come together until that moment you’ve worked so hard that even you think you’re about to go insane. Then, BAM things will slowly start piecing themselves together!

Keep Up With Marie

Website // Facebook // Instagram // Twitter // Tumblr

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