“Leadership is not about being perfect. It's about being predictable in the best possible way. It's knowing that how we lead becomes part of someone else's story. And that's a responsibility we should never take lightly.”

Five years ago, I was introduced to the ATHENA Principles of Enlightened Leadership—and they changed everything. These eight simple, yet powerful tenets have guided my journey as a facilitator, coach, and leader. In this post, I share how the principles continue to shape my life and leadership, and why I’m honored to be the keynote speaker at the Livingston ATHENA Chapter Launch on July 31.

"On the hard days, I don’t push—I pause. I ask myself what I really need, not what the world expects of me. Because joy doesn’t come from comparison; it comes from connection—within ourselves, with nature, and with the quiet moments that remind us we’re enough, just as we are."

Mastering difficult conversations isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing up with honesty, empathy, and courage. True leadership begins when we listen not just to respond, but to truly understand.

The most impactful leaders today aren’t just smart—they’re emotionally intelligent. From clear communication to purpose-driven decision-making, discover how emotionally intelligent leaders lead with trust, clarity, and empathy.

The skills once called “soft” are now the ones making the biggest impact.

From emotional intelligence and clear communication to empathy and adaptability, these human-centered skills are redefining leadership, connection, and success. At Integrare Collaborative, we help you turn these power skills into your personal and professional edge. Because when you lead with confidence, presence, and heart—everything changes.

So, here's the truth: life is happening now. We don't get to press pause. And while we don't control the course—how steep and winding—it is still ours to run. Loudly. Proudly. In costume, even.

There's an extraordinary kind of empowerment that comes when we blend wisdom and whimsy, find meaning in the mundane, chase joy, and embrace every part of ourselves—the silly, the strong, the soulful.

 The next time life presents you with a metaphorical 5K—show up. Wear the costume. Thank your cheerleaders. And run with your whole heart.

Because this moment? It matters.

And you—as you are—are more than enough to meet it.

This isn't about perfection—it's about commitment. Every evening, I can choose how I'll show up tomorrow. These small habits reinforce a deeper truth: I am worth the effort. My goals, my peace, my energy—they all matter.

At the beginning of this year, I made a commitment to prioritize my mental and physical health and wellness—not as a resolution but as a personal revolution.

This trip wasn’t just about travel—it was about presence, connection, and clarity. As we spent time with our kids, my parents, and each other, I was reminded how fleeting life can be and how essential it is to invest in the people who matter most. Finishing The 5 Types of Wealth on the drive helped me see this time together not as a break from life, but as a vital part of building a life rooted in love, intention, and true wealth.

Presence is powerful. It reassures, heals, and strengthens bonds. When we give someone our full attention—eye contact, active listening, engaged body language—we communicate: “You matter. You are valued. I see you.”

It's easy to assume the worst about people. A short text feels dismissive. A driver cuts you off, and you instantly label them inconsiderate. Someone disagrees with you, and suddenly, they become the enemy. But what if we chose to see things differently?

Leaders with strong executive presence don't have to dominate a room; they inspire confidence by simply showing up with authenticity and intentionality. It's in the way they make eye contact, actively listen, and hold space for others without needing to be the loudest voice in the room.

Boundaries are essential because they allow you to focus on what truly matters to you and set the rules of engagement for the people you choose to interact with. They aren't about punishing others but, instead, provide clarity that allows relationships to thrive authentically. When you set healthy boundaries, you're essentially saying, "This is how we can connect in a way that respects both of us."

With the new year comes new goals and hobbies. I’ve embarked on a quest to master the art of omelette making. There’s something deeply satisfying about attempting to perfect a seemingly simple dish, and I’m enjoying the process (and the taste-testing).

Not every plan turns out the way we expect—especially when it comes to gardening. After a season plagued by deer, rabbits, and weather that didn’t cooperate, I realized I wasn’t going to grow the bountiful harvest I had planned. But instead of giving up, I shifted my focus, supporting local farmers while still meeting my goal of preserving food for my family. This season taught me valuable lessons in resilience and adaptability, reminding me that when life doesn’t go your way, there’s always another way forward.

Imagine being a teen mom, juggling work, college, and raising a child—talk about a crash course in life! As if that wasn't enough, I had to navigate all of it as a Black woman in spaces that didn't always make me feel welcome. The pressure to fit into someone else's idea of who I should be was sometimes overwhelming.

Dining etiquette can transform a simple meal into a memorable experience. My latest blog explores how a few basic rules can alleviate anxiety and enhance your dining experience, focusing on the essence of dining—connecting with others. Learn practical tips like the BMW method to navigate place settings and the "outside-in" rule for utensils. Discover how following the host's lead can set the meal's pace, and remember, dining is about respect and connection. Empower yourself with these insights and make your next dining experience truly spectacular.

Join me on a tantalizing quest through Key West, Florida, as I search for the ultimate Key Lime Pie. Discover the highs and lows of my delightful dessert adventure, from festive presentations to unique flavors and textures. Dive into the blog to see which pie takes the crown and get inspired to embark on your own sweet journey in the Key Lime Pie capital of the world!

Discover my recent adventures in Arizona, Key West, and Mackinac Island. It's been an exciting journey from hiking and parasailing to indulging in Key Lime Pie! As summer begins, I'm focusing on my garden, canning season, and new episodes of my podcast, WildHER Wisdom. Stay tuned for more updates and travel stories!