Just like many other conversations we have on an everyday basis, I wanted to start this initial blog (and OUR first conversation) the same way. Before you answer, take a moment to think about how you really feel. So often, we ask this question to our family, friends and even passerby’s during our daily coffee run.

Sis…When’s the last time you asked yourself this?

Recently, I found myself couch bound as I realized that my answer was not the typical “I’m fine” or “Good”. When asked by others, it so easily and unconsciously left my lips but internally, I was overstimulated, overwhelmed, underpaid and just plain tired. As a single mom of an amazingly talented, courageous and loving son, saying that I’m okay just to survive the trials of everyday life seemed necessary. Now years later, I find myself taking medical leave from my 7-year profession to focus on my overall health simply because I’d also told myself the same thing for far too long. I neglected my happiness and peace while simultaneously carrying the weight of womanhood and now… had finally broken.

Thankfully, I’m blessed to have a village of ladies from a variety of backgrounds to help me overcome some of the difficulties of the millennial woman. Still, I recognized that the support began within myself. I made a habit out of ignoring my mental, emotional, physical, social and financial needs. It was time to learn new behaviors to improve my overall self-care and show up in the world as my best and most authentic self.

Hence, the idea for Back To You Branding LLC was born!

After sharing my experience with other women and mothers, I realized how many of us have prioritized our loved ones and daily responsibilities while disregarding our own needs. I spent the next 10 months reviewing, revamping and retrying ideas that would spark change in my community until I finally settled on getting “Back To You”.

Now it’s time to normalize checking in with ourselves and make space to be our best, together! Still, let’s take it one day at a time and record our progress. Let’s use this opportunity to create and reach attainable goals while giving ourselves the grace needed to develop. Utilize this site as a place to just be what you need to be presently and know who we are in every season of our journey is enough. This is our safe space, and we are a village here to elevate one another.

See you soon, girl!

-Shawna, boy mom and future success story