How do I maintain my flame and motivate myself and not burn out?

As a child growing up on the east side

of Austin, there were no grand expectations for my future.

The plan, as it was laid out, was simple:

graduate from high school, become a secretary with the state of Texas,

and secure a good retirement plan.

Add to that the dysfunctional family environment in which I grew up —

replete with domestic violence,

teen pregnancy, and criminal activity —

and it seemed impossible to imagine a life in which I would achieve my dreams.

Well — impossible to everyone but me.

Because deep inside, I’ve always felt that fire to succeed.

On some days, the flames flicker intensely, on others they dwindle slightly.

But the burning desire to live an empowered life is always there.

Despite all the external and internal roadblocks —

from my family environment to a lack of money to low self-esteem —

I have met and mastered every challenge with which I’ve been confronted.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in three years, and a master’s in one.

At 27, I was one of Texas Southern University’s youngest-ever Ed.D. recipients.

And I was the first African American to be crowned Miss Austin.

I’ve held a lot of titles over the past two decades, directing higher education programs

and helping to lead public schools. It’s a blessing to shape education initiatives

and be a daily presence in students’ lives.

But at the end of the day, my favorite title is one that doesn’t come with an office.

It’s “mom.”

If my past has taught me anything, it’s this: the most important thing you can do —

whether you’re a parent, an educator, or an advocate —

is to build children up and prepare them for the future.

Your home is your training ground: Let them know it’s OK to make mistakes, it’s OK to fail, because we’re here and we’re going to get through it together.

I am an author, life coach, and speaker that enjoys speaking to women across the world about

"Living an Audaciously Authentic Life".

Unfortunately, I lost my sister unexpectedly at the age of 48 and it has taught me

to savor every moment.

I have worked in the field of education for over twenty-five years, and I have recently become the care giver for both of my parents.

As the youngest of six children, it was difficult to take care of my parents without sibling assistance while being a wife, mother, and successful entrepreneur.

After losing my dad it gave me the boost of encouragement that was needed to continue his entrepreneurial legacy while impacting others on a larger scale.

It is my goal to encourage others to look past their situation and enjoy the ride.

I tell my children the same thing I tell myself, and I now tell you:

Choose to be happy. You get one shot at life. Live it by your standards. Dare to be different.

https://www.maintaintheflame.net/

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