HELLO SEPTEMBER!

Hello Gorgeous,

Summer is coming to an end. I must admit that it feels good to be ushering in a new season. Fall is my favorite season. I love fall fashion. Blazers, scarfs, gloves, boots oh my. I feel like it's a time when I can indulge in both my feminine side yet add a bit of mystery with masculine touches such as leather, hats, and very structured pieces... I can't wait to pick the perfect fall scent. I have something in mind and am looking forward to trying the scent on for size. It has to be a sexy mix of power and grace. 
What excites me most about fall is its comfortable warmth. I'm looking forward to many pumpkin spice lattes, and the chance to dig in and write with no distractions. With that being said here are the top 7 things I want to accomplish for the month of September.

1. 

DEVOTE SCHEDULED TIME TO MY DREAMS

I want to go pro with my blog meaning, I want to write trans formative pieces that inspire change, thought, and conversation.....

2. 

TAKE A LEAP OF FAITH

I often pray for and wait...I will now pray and work to that God can guide my steps with his own eye

3. 

BE FIRST

I have always been the one to make the sacrifice often times leaving myself empty. This month I commit to being selfish with myself, falling in love with me, and enjoy all the little things that make me  Shameka...

4. 

Go on a date

Take myself on a date...get all dolled up, go to my favorite spot and spend a little QT with me!

5. 

START A HEALTHY, SEXY HAIR JOURNEY

I am craving a wavy bob!

6. 

CREATE A FUN FITNESS ROUTINE

I must admit I have neglected my body, gained more than a few pounds and starting to feel the stress of the extra weight on my body, it's time to get my body back into shape.

7. 

SET THE STANDARD...QUALITY OVER QUANTITY

Instead of having many things I want to surround myself with the things that I really love, and I'm starting with my wardrobe!

What are you looking forward to accomplishing before the leaves start hitting the ground? Connect with me on Instagram and Twitter @shemogullifestyle, let me know what your working toward this month.

With Love,

Shameka

Why Not Have A Miami Night....?

“I've apparently been the victim of growing up, which apparently happens to all of us at one point or another. It's been going on for quite some time now, without me knowing it. I've found that growing up can mean a lot of things. For me, it doesn't mean I should become somebody completely new and stop loving the things I used to love. It means I've just added more things to my list. Like for example, I'm still beyond obsessed with the winter season and I still start putting up strings of lights in September. I still love sparkles and grocery shopping and really old cats that are only nice to you half the time. I still love writing in my journal and wearing dresses all the time and staring at chandeliers. But some new things I've fallen in love with -- mismatched everything. Mismatched chairs, mismatched colors, mismatched personalities. I love spraying perfumes I used to wear when I was in high school. It brings me back to the days of trying to get a close parking spot at school, trying to get noticed by soccer players, and trying to figure out how to avoid doing or saying anything uncool, and wishing every minute of every day that one day maybe I'd get a chance to win a Grammy. Or something crazy and out of reach like that. ;) I love old buildings with the paint chipping off the walls and my dad's stories about college. I love the freedom of living alone, but I also love things that make me feel seven again. Back then naivety was the norm and skepticism was a foreign language, and I just think every once in a while you need fries and a chocolate milkshake and your mom. I love picking up a cookbook and closing my eyes and opening it to a random page, then attempting to make that recipe. I've loved my fans from the very first day, but they've said things and done things recently that make me feel like they're my friends -- more now than ever before. I'll never go a day without thinking about our memories together.” 

-Taylor Swift





Hey Gorgeous...,

I remember it like it was last night.  I can smell the salt water, feel the breeze on my skin. I can see the crowded room and hear T-Pain and Little Joc's  song Let Me Buy You A Drink transition  into Kiesha Cole and Diddy's Last Night. I tasted the Wet Willies Hurricane on my lips. I had plans to dance until the sun came up... I will remember that scene from my Miami night forever. That wasn't the only Miami night I have had, but it is the most special to me. Why? I shared it with people I had spent the last four years of my life with  wading through the waters of college life. That last Miami night marked the beginning of your grown up life. After that night we would all be going our separate ways. We would no longer have each other to lean on as we had before. Our Miami night resembled our college life. It was filled with laugher, astonishment, struggle, chaos, and true friendship. If it had been any other group of people I do not think I would have remembered that night as much....

I have always believed that one of the gifts of the old is there stories, there memories. I remember being a little girl and listening to all the stories my grandparents told me about my aunt, uncle, and my father. The memories they made were something I hold dear to my heart because they allowed me to have a little piece of the man I never got to know.  As I get older I realize the importance of making memories, and having experiences that you take with you forever. I look forward to the day when I can sit with my daughter and tell her everything that I learned along the way, first to prepare her, and second to pipe her curiosity of the world so that she forges a path that is greater than me.  From my Miami Nights memory,  I will encourage my daughter to cherish her relationships and the time she gets to have with those people because it doesn't last forever. One day your having the time of your life with the people that make life joyous and the next you could be pulling yourself up by your bootstraps! What memories are you going to share with your children? Better yet what memories are you going to make with your children?

Make a memory this week by doing something different, out of the ordinary. Share some of your memories this week with SheMogul Lifestyle on Instagram or twitter @shemogullifestyle.

Memories are lessons in disguise if you take the  time to see them for what they are!

Shameka

Why Not Take Charge Of Your Day? 10 Ways To Put Order In Your Days.

I have aways been a planner, and a list taker. I think I have over 5 different lists going at a time. They all  help me to get all the things that are swimming around in my head a place to live so I will not forget about them. Lately I have been more and more interested not only in managing time but managing my day, which means not just doing the things that I have to do but also doing the things I love to do. By, studying how successful people manage their day I realize that their are three to four parts to a day.  We know three of them very well. The first is work time, time spent actually working on a project or assignment, the second is connection. This is the time when you take meetings, or enter act with peers. The third time is family time. Time spent with loved ones. The fourth component is time spent self improvement. The most successful people spend time working to become more of who they were meant to be before they plug into the world each day. They spend their morning setting themselves up for success by working on their mind, their body, heart, or soul. Some even choose a few specific that help them achieve order and create a morning routine or ritual.... Ideally I'd love to pray, mediate, and plan, thats my morning focus for August.

Here are 10 things to implement into your morning or day to help you walk into success.

 PLAN.

 I have a planner that I use daily to keep track of everything I want to do each day. It allows me to track my schedule and my todo list at the same time. I love the old school way of pen on paper, but if you are more technologically inclined find the perfect app to help you keep track of the stuff that needs to get done. If a planner is not what you want try a simple todo list.

READ. Blank .period.

Take time each day to read something. I find that reading does 2 things for me. The first is works my thought process and seconds expands my mind. In my opinion if your are not reading then you are not growing.

WRITE OUT YOUR GOALS

Write your goals each day! Writing your goals each day keeps them fresh in your mind. It also helps you to plan how your going to work toward your goals .

START THE NIGHT BEFORE...

 Start the night before. Before bed review your day, identify what worked and what didn't. Find ways to avoid your obstacles, and maximize what did work so that your day can be better tomorrow.

MOVE YOUR BODY

Exercise. Exercise always clears my mind. Wake up 30 minutes earlier to move your body for a little.  Keep it simple by finding a quick workout to do as soon as your feet hit the floor

PRAY! MEDITATE! COMMAND!

 Command your morning. I have heard several times that your life follows in the direction of your words,  so take the time to speak good things into your day. For example, before I go to work I always say " This is going to be a good night," and I believe that no matter what happens. When I start to let doubt creep into my mind my work night goes sour.

EAT WELL.

 Fuel your body. Giving your body the right food to work properly will allow you to work longer, and improve concentration and focus so that you can get more done. When I do not eat properly I find that I am sluggish, tired, and irritable, and frankly I could care less about working.

KEEP TRACK OF YOUR MONEY.

 Check your account, knowing where you stand financially keeps your from spending mindlessly, and keeps you on track to reaching your financial goals.

ENJOY EACH DAY!

 Give yourself something to look forward to, instead of planning all of the fun/ or the not so fun things on the weekend spread them throughout the week so you will  have something to look forward to during the week, and to keep yourself from being overwhelmed with errands on the the weekend.

IDENTIFY YOUR WINS.

Prioritize by identify your wins for the day.  After I think about everything I want to get done per day I identify 3 to 4 things that are top priority. These three things will allow me to feel successful, and keep me from overwhelming myself with things that I want to get done.


I challenge you to pick three things to focus on today or to choose a couple of the ten ways  and incorporate them into your morning for entire month of August! Check in @SheMogul on Instagram and let me know how it's going.

Take charge of your day,

Shameka

Why Not Seek Clarity +1...

Do Not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with Good.

Romans 12:21

Hello Gorgeous,

Recently I have been hearing that what you consistently focus on is drawn to you. I have read the Secret and all that jazz and understand the law of attraction, but for me the secret was to complex of an idea to apply to my life everyday. I would have to visualize, feel, and act. It  just seemed a little far fetched, or maybe I just had so much that I wanted to attract into my life that it became over whelming.  Well, one Sunday while catching segments of  Super Soul Sunday I caught a segment of Oprah talking to Russell Simmons about meditation. Russell discussed how meditation has increased his the clarity and focus. He told Oprah that he made it a habit to meditate and do yoga each day. No matter what happened in his busy entrepreneurial life he shut every thing down each day to seek clarity and focus through meditation. During these times he say's that he can clearly see possibilities, opportunities, solutions, and new ventures.

Have You Ever Stopped and Searched for Peace, Clarity, or Calm?

Days get busy, hectic, chaotic. Decisions need to be made, plans implemented, deadlines meet. Babies need to be feed, school work done, significant others cared for, and friends encouraged  Each day our brains are going miles a minute. Thousands of choices are made instantly and yet you wonder where you are going to that last ounce of oomph to burn the midnight oil to see your dreams come true. It lies in the quiet moments you give your brain to sift through the chatter and help you identify those pressing things that will lead to your to your purpose. 

Make it a Habit

In stead of choosing to be consumed by stress, confusion, frustration, busyness, pain, anger or any other negative emotion choose to focus on what you want. Be consumed instead by Good.

1. Find your own personal way to seek good...pray, write, unplug, read inspirational text, meditate   or listen to your favorite song. I find it helpful to do a a little of each.

2. Schedule your clarity time, set your alarm and dig in. Start with 5-10 minutes, increase the time as you become more comfortable with your new habit.

3. Let nothing come in between you and your need to be consumed by good.

Here is a great how-to video by Gabrielle Bernstein on mediation. 

Try being consumed by good today, comment and let me know how it works for you! Share with a friend, follow, or just comeback back for another good read. Let me know if this was helpful to you!

Love,

Shameka

Dear July, I want to Thrive

Hello Gorgoeus,

We have made it past the first six months of the year. I must say that I started off the year excited about the possibilities, I wrote my goals and dedicated myself to achieving them. Yet, here I am almost seven months later asking myself what happened to the time, better yet what happened to my goals.

Thinking back to the beginning of the year I must say that disciplined has escaped me. Instead of focusing on the things I want I focused on the things I did not want such as lack and scarcity. I spent the first half of the year afraid I would not have enough, that I wasn't good enough, that I did not have enough experience, I wasn't pretty enough, or thin enough....enough, enough, enough.  I have been a little obsessed to say the least.

I'm tired of not being enough! Yes I said it! So what now?


Instead of focusing on all the things that are wrong, I plan to focus on all the things that are right, and work on the things that I want to change.
 My goal is to thrive:
My Objective for July are:

1. I want to put more time into my business
2. Connect with people in my industry
3. Create a Thrive Session
4. Relax
5. Give More
6. Be more of me
7. Start my journey to financial freedom/ and wealth building

Shameka

Cheers to the Weekend: Weekend Inspiration

 
Long weekends are my favorites they are the times when I get to indulge in the things that I truly love, and if I am super lucky I get to spend it with people I truly love. Summer weekends seem to be the most exciting, they hold an tingle of adventurous excitement. You never know what stories you will be able to tell come Monday morning.I plan to take full advantage of my early mornings and late night this weekend by pampering my body and relaxing my mind. Here are a few things I plan to do this weekend....

1.

 

Indulge in an endless blue manicure

For the perfect blue try Sinful colors in Endless Blue $2.00 at Walmart

 

2.

 

Find the perfect bouquet of pink ponies

Any suggestions??

 

3.

 

Devour the stack of magazine piled on my desk, in my bed and who knows where else.

I'm inspired by the July Essence Cover, mark your calenders for the movie Think Like A Man 2 in movies June 20th

 

4.

 

Light my Tokyo Petals Candle and catch up on YouTube Videos

Tokyo Petals from Bath & Body works on sale, a nice soft floral scent

5.

 

Write a friend a note

I am loving my Hello note cards found at Target for $1.00

Leave a comment  or snap a pic and share your tips and tricks for a great weekend, how you plan to recharge, or if you spot the perfect bouquet of pink ponies...use hash tag #SheMogul for your pics!!!

With Love,
Shameka

Cheers to the Summer: 10 WAYS TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF SUMMER!

If a June night could talk, it would probably boast it invented romance.

Bern Williams

Summer is on our heels, and to be honest I am not fond of the heat. I am more of a fall kinda girl. Yet, there is still much to be said about sweltering summer days, and feel good summer nights. I have spent the last couple of summers wishing it away. Not this summer. I plan to savor the cool nights, out door events, weekend getaways, and seasonal treats. Here are some simple ways I plan to make the days count. Summer just seems so simple.

1. Relax with late afternoon walks at the park.

2.Use the long days for early morning thrive sessions ( work+ prayer/ mediation+ reading) and  late dinners with friends.

3. Avoid the heat by enjoying lazy afternoons with a great read.

4. Summer is the best time to eat clean, take advantage by whipping up your favorite salad.

5. Give your feet a break; and show them off with a cute pair of sandals and an amazing pedicure.

6. For summer big hair; don't care is always the rule of thumb.

7. Pressed Coffee??? Why? I'm not sure, try it anyway.

8. Weekend Getaways alone; getting way with friends is always nice, but there is something about taking a solo vacation that recharges you in a way like no other.

9. Summer is the perfect time to let your skin breathe, opt out of wearing heavy foundation. Choose a fresh face instead.

10. Beach Days with friends, the family, babies, or alone; spending time at the beach is what summer is about. Don't let the summer pass you by without enjoying an afternoon or two watching the waves.
What are some things that you enjoy about summer? What makes summer so great? Leave a comment, I'm always looking for some great things to try.

Hello Summer; its nice to see you again,

Shameka

WHY NOT BRING IN THE NEW YEAR WITH A PLAN....?

Hello Gorgeous,

I am so excited for the New Year. 2014, I'm ready. Are you?
I wanted to take full advantage of the new year so I spent the last two weeks of 2013, and the first week of the new year creating a vision for my life and fleshing out my goals. One thing I learned from my MBA classes is that every successful business has a vision and a daily mission that guides them toward that vision.

For the past three years I made the standard vision board. I glued pictures of things that I wanted to accomplish with in the year, and I placed the board somewhere I would see it each day. I saw some results, yet I realized that I just expected everything to just to happen. I wanted things to fall into my lap. I wanted to conquer my new city, yet I stayed in my comfort zone , I wanted to become a runner yet I never ran. I wanted to fall in love yet I never gave anyone a chance to get close to me. Those things never happened. As I reflected on the past year I realized that those things that I put the effort into actually happened. I spent months looking for an apartment, and moved into my perfect place last summer. I wanted to change my style so I cut my tightly coiled hair into a Mohawk and I loved it. I wanted to visit my family three times within the year. I made it twice. I know there is something to this vision board thing so this year I did a  little bit more. I created a 3 to 5 year vision, broke my visions down into goals, and used my calendar to insert the goals into 3 month periods. I want 2014 to be a year of change.

Here's how I did it...

1.) Reflection: I thought about what worked and what did not work last year. I realized that I did not want to make random goals each year, and a new vision board. I decided that I wanted to work toward something.

2.) Clarified My Vision: I thought about the life I wanted in 3 to 5 years. The woman I wanted to be, the career I wanted to have, my relationships, finances, relationship with  GOD, and the things I wanted to experience. This time I really composed a vision board filled with broad reaching goals.

3.) Broke My Vision Into Goals: I took my big vision and broke them down into categories ( spiritual, beauty, fitness, finance, career, etc.). I placed goals in each category that would help me get to my vision.

4.). I gave myself a deadline: The first 90 days of 2014 to accomplish those goals, after the first 90 days I'll reflect and write new ones to get me through the 2nd quarter of the year.

5.) Scheduled: Each day/week I scheduled in time to work on my goals

6.) Tracked: Brought a calendar to visually track my progress....


Create a Vision, design goals and go for it...

Love,
Sham

Why Not: Sow Good Seeds....+ 1

The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.

2 Corinthians 9:6

 

 

Hello Gorgeous,

 

It feels so good to write again. I have been working so hard for the last couple of months; focused on school,  a new job, and figuring out life in a new city. I finally feel like life is calming down and I can share some wisdom  that I have picked up along the way.

 

A few months ago one of my very close friends shared with me a lesson he was learning in his life about planting seeds...

 

One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want. Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.

proverbs 11:24-25

 

Most of my life I have thought of reaping what I sow only when I give off negativity. If you give negativity you will get negativity. As I got older I began to see the concept in a new light. If I give positivity I should receive the same thing. This concept of  reaping what I sow was  taken further for me with a little wisdom from my friend I'll call him Dr. Wisdom. He gave me this thought:

 

" Be careful where you plant your seeds, plant them where they will grow"

 

After months of rolling this thought in my mind I finally have been able to receive what he was telling me. I should be intentional about my actions, they should lead to my goals. Not only should I plant good seeds I need to plant good seeds in fertile ground. I need to plant seed that will grow and reap an abundant harvest. I have begun to investigate my life and  have realized that my actions or my seeds are invested in ..sleeping, working, and watching television. Now what does that reap ladies....a mediocre life. My goal is to have an extraordinary life therefore I need to plant extraordinary seeds.

 

 

Here's the plan!

 

1. Spend focused time working on my goals

2. Become the master of my time.

3. Let go of the things that are time wasters.

What types of seeds are you planting? Let's work together to plant the seeds that will grow your dreams.

 

 

 

 

What do you think about joining a book club?

I want to start a book club that will bring women together to discuss titles that inspire, empower, and encourage life long learning. What do you think? Would you join? What are good titles to start with?



 

 

 

Ciao Bella,

 

Shameka

 



 



 

Inspired: A Couple of Forevers

 

 

 

I stopped writing, I was not sure if posting on SheMogul was something that was leading me to my purpose. I also did not know if I really enjoyed it anymore. While searching the web looking for some style inspiration for a new hair cut I ran across an article Curly Nikki wrote about Chrisette Michelle's recent weight loss, new hair cut, and why she became a vegan. After reading that article I stocked Chrisette Michelle on Google reading anything and everything about her life change and new upcoming album. I was inspired. She made me want something different. I wanted to strive for something better for myself. It inspired me to write again, to share again, and it reminded me of the reason I started SheMogul. My goal is to inspire you all to dream bigger and take the steps to make those dreams a reality.

 

I am excited to be writing and creating pieces that inspire and inform you. I am also excited to challenge myself into creating a better experience for you here on SheMogul.

 

 

If you have not already, check out Chrisette Michelle's A Couple of Forever's!. I am in love with this song. It makes me believe in love again.

 

 

Tell me what you think of A Couple of Forever's new track?

Natural Hair: Whats more important length or style?

 

 

 

I have been natural for two years, like many others in the natural community I have been focused on growing healthy tresses that when straightened reach down to my butt. Lol. I know! Well two years in and I am drowning in hair. The longer my hair gets the more I hate it. Why you ask. First, it takes for ever to do . To wash, condition, and twist takes at least 3 hours. I really do not have the time for that. This translates into me not washing my hair as often as I should because I do not want to deal with it. It also translates into me throwing it in a high puff most days to keep it somewhat tamed. Finally, I'm really tired of twist outs, braid outs, puffs, and the like. I don't feel fierce with a head full of hair, I feel like a little girl with a hiding behind her hair. Am I sacrificing style for length? What do you think ladies; is length more important than style?

 

  

Leave a comment and let me know what you think about continuing to rock a TWA opposite to the big curly fro...... Those of you who have make the second big chop weigh in!

 

*photos from Pinterest

 

Shameka



Why Not Reinvent Yourself....?

Hi Gorgeous,

Spring is fast approaching. Time for new and fresh things to emerge, and old things to die away.  Those old things that are holding you down or back should be laid to rest so the new and improved you can emerge.

Spring is a time of plans and projects

Leo Tolstoy

 

 

 

It is the perfect time to take those things that you can not stand about yourself and turn them into things you love. REINVENT yourself woman. I give you permission to become the GORGEOUS, SEXY, BOLD,CHIC, SMART woman that your desire to be. It starts with recognizing that their is something that you want to change, and simply taking the steps to make it happen. Don't spend another day secretly being jealous of the diva in the cubicle next to yours because she has great style,  and a killer hair cut. Or have a girl crush on the woman who owns the coffee shop that you frequent in the mornings because she had the confidence  to leave the corporate world and do something she loves. Do the work and I promise you, you will be the girl with the fly boutique on the corner with the amazing style and confidence to boot.

 

Here are some ways to get started:

 

 

1. Take note of the things that you would like to change this spring. Make a list. After you make the list write down one or two action steps that could lead to change.

 

Ex. I hate my hair!!!!!

 

1. Look up some styles online that I would like to have

 

2. Go to a salon and get a consultation on what would work best for my face shape and my life style.

 

 

2. Change your attitude. To make this change you need confidence. You need to make up in your mind that no matter what happens you are going to stay on the journey to make you a better you no matter what or who stands in your way. Remember people start acting funny when you start to change.

 

3. Gather a support team. Pick people that love you and want the best for you. Gather your ride or die homies and go for it. These will be the people who give you that extra little bit of something to ask your cute next door neighbor out for drinks, or tag along with you at a speed dating event, or even stand next to you as your give your life to Christ.

 

4. Research. You know what you want to change, you have made up your mind and you have your support team. Now what? Research. Talk to the lady who owns the coffee shop or the girl in the next cubicle, find out more about them. Connect. Ask them how they developed the style or the confidence. I'm sure they can give you all the tips and tricks to get you started. And if that doesn't work their  is always Google and one of my favorites YouTube ( you can find a tutorial on almost anything.)

 

5. Take Action. You have everything lined up, now its time to get to work. Not tomorrow now. Take that flying leap and don't turn back. When I went natural I knew that I would have to make a drastic change to stick to it, so I chopped my hair off to maybe and inch and a half. I'm not going to lie I was a little terrified, but I knew that to make the change I wanted I need to just do it. And I did. And I don't regret it.

 

 

*Photos taken from Pinterest

 

What changes are you making this spring? Share!

 

Good Luck On The Journey To A Fiercer You,

 

Shameka





Feburary Favorites

Hi Gorgeous;

I can't believe February is almost over. It seems like the month has just started. It has been a world wind month for me. I started a new job so I have been trying to get my schedule together. I have yet to master the right schedule that allows me to get the most out of my day and  week, but I'm still at it. With that being said my favorite things this month help me wind down after a long day of work, get me ready for a restful night of sleep or help me recharge.


I love Vanilla Cream candles. I burn them at night just before bed. They always make me feel comforted and at home. I usually pick up my favorite one at Walmart for around $5. They also last a while. I have been burning my candle each night while I get ready for bed. It sets the mood for sleep.



I found this body wash at Bath and Body Works during the after Christmas Sale. The were on sale for $5, so I decided to try a bottle. I originally went in to get their Vanilla and Lavendar Sleep bath foam, guys that stuff is amazing. Since the detox was on sale a picked up a bottle and fell in love. When I shower with this I feel warm, clean, and like my body is ready for sleep. So after I used up my first bottle I went back to the store and got a couple more bottles. I believe this was a limited edition product. After I run out I will definitely be going back to my beloved Vanilla and Lavendar bath foam. I recommend this product for those of you who have a hard time fall asleep at night. It really helps you leave the dirt of the day in the show.


This Dr. Teal's I picked up from Walmart for around $5 bucks. This product is a life saver on those days when I feel like I just do not have it in me to go anymore, those days when I am stressed, my body is achy and sore, and I just need to escape. I soak in this for about 20 minutes and am ready for bed, homework or just relaxing. Its a product every girl should have around for those tuff days.

 

 



How do you recharge after a long day? Share your tips and tricks!

 

Shameka

5 Things to Think About Before Going Natural

 

 

Hi Gorgeous,  

 

With my two year natural-versary  coming up I have been thinking about what's next for my natural hair. I have been toying with the idea of chopping of my curls to rock a fierce TWA for the warm months;  yet I love my curls, coils and kinks and want to continue to let my fro do what it wants.

 

 

 

So as I sail toward my two years and have embraced all the joys and challenges of natural hair I have a few words of wisdom for those of you who are thinking about making the big chop or are embracing their new kinky texture.

 

1. Before you make that chop sit down and figure out why you want to go natural. If you do it because everyone else is doing it than your not going to last for long. Getting to know your new hair is a challenge that has to be embraced before the first snip of the scissors.

 

2. Have definite goals for your hair. After you figure out why you want go on this journey identify a goal for your hair. Some goals that loads of naturals have is for their hair to be healthy, some women want to grow their hair to a certain length. Click the link to check out an article about successfully setting goals for your natural hair.
 

 http://www.curlynikki.com/2012/09/how-to-set-successful-hair-goals.html
 

3. Understand that people are not going to understand your choice, and be okay with that. When I first went natural people thought I was crazy. I had some really harsh things said to me especially from my family. If I was not confident in my choice I would have went back to my relaxed tresses.

 

" What are you trying to bring black back?" -said to me by my brother

 

4. Find some resources, a natural hair guru will help you learn how to take care of your coils. When I first went natural I went to youtube to find out what products to use and styles to do on my hair.

 

Here is one of my favorite natural hair you-tubers CharJay. Check out her Channel.

 

 

For those of you who do not like watching videos then check out a natural hair blog like curlynikki.com

 

5. Accept that your hair and your journey will not be like anyone else's, so be prepared to search for tricks, and tips that work for you, your hair, and your schedule.

 

Being Natural Ain't Easy, But It's Worth It!

 

 

All you naturals, why did you go natural? Share your journey....

 

Shameka

 

 







Beyonce's Life Is But A Dream + My Thoughts

Hi Gorgeous!

There is a lot of buzz going on about Beyoncé's Life Is But  A Dream Documentary. I have read reviews where women said they were so inspired, and saw Beyoncé in a different light. Others felt as if Baddiebey was still hiding something. Me, I was indifferent. So I watched unbiased two days after the infamous documentary aired on HBO.

What I learned from the documentary are things that I had already known. Her work ethic is beyond amazing, and she is a great entertainer. I think everyone knows that. I was interested to know more about how she dealt with her miscarriage besides writing a song, how does she manage a tough schedule, does she cook? Is she a real woman?

What I learned is that Beyoncé will never show the world who she really is. Why? I do not know. So all of you Beyoncé fans who are waiting for the crack in her armor keep waiting Lady Bey will always be perfect to the world.

 The fact that millions of women are inspired by smoke and mirrors says a lot about the lack of real role models in the media, women who have made it to the top and still hold down their families. Who can run a business from 8 to 5 in six inch stilettos and dash to the little league game wearing chucks.  Beyoncé's platform is about inspiring and encouraging women yet the majority of her music is sexually charged and all about sexual power. Now I'm not saying anything is wrong with being sexy, and all that jazz I'm just saying there is more to a woman. I believe that people are still waiting to see those other sides of Beyoncé. We have seen her sing and dance; we have seen her hold Blue Ivey and smile at Jay. What's new? It's time for Baddiebey to really be a woman who inspires and encourages women by not being perfect by being Beyoncé. I'm just saying.

 

What did you think of Life Is But A Dream?

Shameka

Happy Valentines Day + Give Away

Hi Gorgeous,

I must admit that Valentines Day snuck up on me this year. In past years I have dreaded the day. Thinking about all the things I would be missing out on. Not this year. My focus has not really been centered on the down side of being single. Recently my focused has been on becoming a better woman.With that being said I have some plans for self love.

I will be starting the morning off with a great workout. Followed by a pedicure. Then off to work I go. After work I plan to take a very relaxing bath, followed by a Netflix date( finishing up the 5th season of Gossip Girl) while munching on some chocolate covered strawberries. Yum!

What are your plans for the day of LOVE, single or not?

GIVE AWAY!!!!!!

Soft Kissable Lips created using Maybelline's Baby Lips in Pink Punch

If you have a hot date, don't forget to make sure your lips are kissably soft. The recent wave of tinted lip balms that have hit the selves have caught my eye, and I just had to try one, or maybe three.

So I'm going to show you some love. I'm giving away 2 Maybelline Baby Lips Tinted lip balms. I have been layering this smooth balm under my lipstick or lipgloss. I also wear it alone. It gives me sheer color and moisturized kissable lips. You will love it! I promise. Follow the instructions to win.

1. Leave a comment on the blog about you will be showing love on Valentines day.
2.Follow SheMogul on Instagram
3.Like the  SheMogul facebook page

Two blessed winners will be announced 2/22 on the SheMogul blog. Remember to check back and see if you have won. Have a fabulous day!

XoXo,
Shameka

 

Busy Girl Must Haves + 4 Real Girls Weigh In...

Hi Gorgeous,

I have been extremely busy the last three weeks. School and work gave me a run for my money. I  am happy to say that I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. There have been a couple of things that have kept me sane...

1. Morning Prayer

2. Vanilla Lattes

3. My planner

4. Lip Balm

 

On those days when I just could not imagine how I would get it all done, I spent time in prayer and seeking guidance and strength for the day. Vanilla Lattes, are and were the little miracle worker that gave me that extra oomph to push thru after a grueling 8 hour work shift straight thru  3 hours of homework. I can not, will not, be able to make it without my planner. It helps juggle everything by allowing me to schedule in everything that I want to fit into my week which includes work, school work, blogging, free time, workouts, church, research...just to name a few things. And the last thing that I just do not leave the house without is lip balm. A girl has GOT to have it!

 

I have been wondering what other girls must have to power through their day....so I asked! 4 real  girls weigh in on their busy day must haves.

 

 

Candice

 23
Charlotte NC
Psychiatric Tech, Graduate Student, Fashion Lover, Traveler, Mother of  Holly ( 1 year old Yorkie Terrier)

"I can't make it through a busy day without a large designer tote, my phone, my ipad, concealer for a fresh face without foundation, lip gloss, cell phone and phone charger, notebook, pen, and at least one of my school..."

Stephanie
25
Guayanilla PR
Graduate Student, Jet Setter, and Fitness Enthusiast

"School work and working out keeps me busy, head phones help me focus rather I am getting in my last mile at the gym or finishing up a paper. Eye make up pulls it all together when the work out is done..."

 

 Heather

27

Atlanta Georgia

Senior Program Director, Graduate Student, Sweet Treat Baker

 

I get up at 5:30 to be at my internship by 7, at 10:30 I roll into my full time job as a Senior Director of After School Program where I work on program management and grant issues, meet with donors and partners until 7. I then go home and do school work, office work, cook, workout, sleep, and do it all over again!

I can't make it through my day without a smile and mascara. A smile is something that I have with me that does not cost me anything, but makes my day so much better. Smiling is such a natural thing for me. I have mascara in my car, purse, on my desk, and three at home so I won't forget to put it on...."

 

 

Janice

25

Florence SC

Salon Owner & Stylist,  Mother of 2, Aspiring Model, Hustler at Heart

 

" I can't make it through the day without my cellphone. I use it to contact clients, schedule appointments, and take payments. I also need it to keep in contact with my boys. As a working mom I need to make sure I am able to schedule school and daycare pick, sitters, and just be available at the drop of a dime.  Weave and lip gloss are a must have everyday. As a stylist my appearance is very important..."

 

 

I want to know what keeps you gorgeous and sane on your busiest day. Leave a comment or instagram a pic of your busy day must haves with hash tag #busygirlmusthaves. Also don't forget to mention @shemogul in your post.

 

Have a Fabulous day....

Shameka











Love List: 3 Ways to Make a Gorgeous Change!

Gor-geous

Beautiful; Very Attractive

Pleasant

 

 

Lately I have been looking for something different. I have been wanting to shake things up a little bit and be gorgeous while I'm at it. I am not going to lie the older I get the more difficult it seems to just go with the flow, to be confident in my choices, or to forget about what others think. Not anymore...

 

 

I'm ready to make a change and be gorgeous while I'm at it.  Here is the plan:

 

Smile: Along the way I lost my smile. I buried in order to survive ( at least I thought at the time, that's a whole other story, for another time). Well it's time to bring it back! I'm looking forward to seeing how it can brighten up my day....update to come!

 

 

Be Me with No Apologies: Sometimes I don't feel like talking, sometimes I don't have anything to say, sometimes I'm stubborn to a fault, often I get scared, I procrastinate, I give to much, I love to hard or not at all, I am a romantic heart, vanilla lattes are my kryptonite, I feel fierce and feminine when my hair is short and tapered, my favorite color is red on Monday and Saturday it's fuchsia, I wish I was as fierce as Olive Pope...and the list goes on!

 

Stand in my own beauty: Chinky eyes, pouty lips, full hips, kinks, coils, and curls, were all things that I once did not like about myself for one reason or another, but they all make me Gorgeous!

 

Pursue my Purpose + Passion: There is nothing like a girl living the life she was born to live. She's a bit more confident, assured, and happy.

How are you making a Gorgeous change? I want to hear from you!

Shameka

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4 Ways to Stay Commited!

Hi Gorgeous!

I have been wondering how long each of us will be motivated to achieve those goals that we all  wrote down. As life gets back in full swing, the children are back in school, work is becoming more hectic and our plates are quickly filling  up with things to do what keeps us from throwing in the towel? The question is how do we stay focused on what we want to achieve this year?

 Here Are 4 Things To Try!



WEIGHT LOSS JARS

 

For those of you who are serious the weight loss jars are perfect for you. All you need are two nice glass jars that you can see through. Label one pounds to loose, and the other pounds lost. Fill with the number of marbles of the pounds that you want to loose. As you loose the weight transfer the marbles over to the other jar until their are no more marbles. This is a great way to see your hard work paying off.

STICKY NOTES

 Do not underestimate the power of a sticky note. Try these for the small goals that you want to fit in each day such as drinking more water, taking multivitamin, or working on your business plan for 30 minutes. You can even write motivational quotes on them to get you moving. Place them in places that you often go such as your bathroom mirror, or your car dashboard.

ACCOUNTABILITY BUDDIES

Accountability buddies are awesome. I can attest to the power of telling someone your goals and them being there to motivate you on those days when you have nothing left to give. For some reason just knowing someone understands how you feel, yet they also know where you are trying to go it just gives you that burst of energy to finish. Grab a friend, inform them of  your goal and what you need from them as an accountability buddy. Maybe you need them go give you some encouraging words when you are down, or may a kick in the butt when you are being stubborn. Make sure you choose people that you trust and who you love and respect.

PICTURES

 

 

Find a picture that accurately represents your goal and place it on the fridge on your desk or any other place that will help you keep your goal at the for front of your mind.

 

These are just a few simple things I thought you would appreciate, now share!

 

How are you staying motivated? Share your motivation tips with me. Instagram or tweet a pic of how you stay motivated or using the tips above. Don't forget to mention @shemogul in your post with hash tag #shemogullifestyle

 

Shameka