Imagine the profound impact when young adults transition from living with their parents. Consider the hope that comes with new beginnings after leaving incarceration. In previous years, the average middle-class person may not have considered public housing an option. However, with the rise of inflation and the ongoing economic crises, think about the relief for those unable to afford skyrocketing rent rates. Public housing is pivotal in filling these crucial gaps, providing stability, empowerment, and a second chance.  Stories abound of individuals who have transformed their lives through public housing, finding a stepping stone to a brighter future from independence to newfound opportunities; public housing proves its importance by paving the way toward success, one life at a time. Sincerely, Kurtice Lewis

Do you often find your boss being harsh on you? Don't be disheartened just yet. Sometimes, their seemingly relentless expectations show that they see your potential. The truth is, they might be secretly preparing you to step into a leadership role without your knowledge.  So, instead of feeling overwhelmed, embrace the challenge and trust your abilities. Remember, the toughest bosses can be your most incredible mentors, molding you into a capable successor. Stay determined and keep learning; the demanding boss might groom you to lead.  Sincerely,  Kurtice Lewis

A lot has happened in the past year. First, let me start by saying why I took a year-long break from my blog. There were many things to learn as I settled into my new role at my new job. Things started slow and then quickly became overwhelming. The load has kept up, but I have a handle on the workflow.  This blog post isn't just about updating you on my career journey; it is more of a reminder that it is ok to take a break when things get too hectic. Prioritize tasks and put things into perspective. I wouldn't have to take any breaks shortly. If I do, it is likely because I am going through another process of leveling up. ☺  Kurtice,

 Longevity is the name of the game. For us to be in this game for a long time, we need to develop habits that will help us go the distance.  Whether it is meditation, jogging, exercise, eating healthy, or taking time to travel alone and disconnect from the rest of the world. We can also provide self-care by putting some systems in place to take the load off our shoulders. Strategies include making sure there is someone to pick up the kids from school for us, having a chef prepare dinner, hiring a maid to clean once a week, and dropping off the laundry instead of spending hours doing it yourself, to name a few. These are a few things that can help you reclaim your time and save your energy, which you can deploy in other areas of your life in a productive way.  Whatever you choose with that free time and energy is up to you. I suggest using it to reset and recharge. You could get a little work done in between but make it count.  Sincerely, Kurtice Lewis

Have you ever had one of those days where you do not feel like being at work or showing up as your best self? It is not because you don't want to. It is just where your energy level is at that moment. At times, it can be that you have so much to do and don't have the energy to begin. What are some things you do to get out of this funk? Do you take a mental break? Do you take a day off to recharge and re-energize? Are you doing activities to return to a place of upbeat, positive energy? Or, there are things that you avoid. Perhaps there are some activities you have noticed that bring your energy down. If you are having one of those days today, I pray you can pull through the day and do the things that bring your energy levels up. Both physically and spiritually. Sincerely, Kurtice Lewis

As a child, I loved puzzles. I did not expect how much puzzle-solving would play a role in my life.  Puzzles help us develop the ability to solve problems and use the information presented to us to develop critical thinking skills. I am speaking of the fact that we all, as humans, are pieces of the bigger picture. Each of us has an essential role in solving and creating the final product. However, self-awareness is crucial when realizing which part of the puzzle you are. Each season of your life may require you to be a different puzzle piece. For example, in this season of life, I am better suited to contribute in an assistant role. I am serving in the best way possible by adding value to others. Most people think they are supposed to be in a leadership role when they are better suited to be in supporting roles.  So, figure out which piece of the puzzle you are. This self-evaluation will help build your confidence and propel you in the direction where you can be most effective...

When is the right time to quit? The popular notion is that quitters never win and winners never quit. But is that true? The truth is that the most successful people in the world didn't necessarily become successful at the first thing they tried. There's a road paved with failures along the way to their success. There were a few dreams they had to give up on before finally landing on their dream gig. The quicker you quit something that isn't working, the faster you can move on to the next thing that may work. Whether it's a job, a career, a business venture, a college major, etc. Time is a limited resource that, once used, you can never get it back. Use it wisely. If you are still determining the right time to quit, here are a few things to remember. First, set benchmarks for the future. If you hit those benchmarks in the allotted timeframe, you may be on the right track. If you are not reaching those goals, it may be time to quit. Set stop losses. If you are investing i...

What are some ingredients for an excellent presentation?  Preparing for a presentation has challenges, from gathering your thoughts and ideas to collecting all the facts and data. Not to mention all the nerves that come along with delivering this presentation. It is also vital to make your presentation engaging. An effective way of achieving this is through the art of storytelling. Storytelling elevates your pitch from being dry, dull, and uninteresting to leaving your audience hooked.  Try these methods the next time you have to present to your company or make that big sale. These tips will help you be more prepared to put your mind at ease. Then, you can be confident that your presentation will be successful and you won't have to be so anxious. 

Test-taking can be a very nerve-racking experience. We get very nervous because we want to do well, and no one wants to fail. So we have this fear of not knowing the answers to the questions on the test. However, tests reveal what's inside of you. So if we look at it from this perspective, we will realize there is no need to be fearful.  Let's say you have a big pitch that you have to make, a big sale or presentation; nerves can take you over. Once we remember the fundamental concept that we already have what it takes inside of us, then there is no need to be scared or nervous. You either know the answers, or you don't. We have all been in situations where we failed at something. Failure usually leads to our most significant success. So the next time you have to make that pitch, sale, or presentation, I trust you will be ready. Sincerely, Kurtice Lewis

If your coworker might be in danger of losing their job, what do you do?  The situation is tricky to navigate. On the one hand, if you speak up, you might be overstepping, especially if you are not someone who works under you. This individual may kill the messenger and take out their frustrations on you, then attempt to throw you under the bus when all you were trying to do was help. On the other hand, the conversation could go well. They may be receptive to the news and even your suggestions on improving their performance or appearance. It also boils down to knowing the individuals you are attempting to assist. If the repour between you is good, go for it.  Remember not to be dissatisfied if they are receptive to your help; this is not your responsibility. You are doing this from a good place. Do not take it personally. Just know that you can not help everyone.  Sincerely, Kurtice Lewis

What do you do when you have outgrown your situation? It is a sad moment when we no longer see eye to eye with that friend we thought would be our "BFF" until we are old grey and helping each other with our Jelo snacks. A truly devasting situation indeed.  It is sadly the same for our jobs and careers. We go to work daily, loving our jobs, coworkers, the cooler talk, the corporate outings, etc. Then, what seems like out of the blue, we come to work one day and realize the energy is starting to shift. We slowly begin not to like the things we used to enjoy anymore. In most cases, it is usually an indicator that we are outgrowing the environment or the people around us. It may be time for a career change or a workplace change. In friendships, our friends may be going through a life change at the same time as us, and we may not be on the same page as before. Coworkers move on to other jobs, new employees enter your workplace, and their energy throws off the office's vibe. Th...

We can all agree that the one thing that spoils the workplace is the politics that can occur. Here are a few things that can stir up workplace politics—agendas, personal feelings, and picking up other coworkers' beef. As we speak, you may be dealing with one or more of these issues. On the other hand, you may be experiencing one that is not on this list. Whichever circumstance it is, it sucks!  So how do we deal with workplace politics? For one, if we focus on the main goals and objectives, we should not be concerned about the personal issues we may have with others or their problems with us. Try your best not to get caught up in the personal feelings and opinions of others and focus on the customers, clients, members, patients, etc. If your environment grows too toxic, then consider making a move.  Also, do some soul-searching and self-evaluation. Workplace drama exists everywhere. The issue may just be you. If you are honest with yourself and your conflict resolution skills,...

 If you have ever traveled on a day when it is cloudy and rainy, the one thing that you will notice is that once the airplane reaches an altitude above the clouds, the sun is still present and shiny as ever.  In your current circumstance, things may look dark and cloudy. The rain may be falling in this season of your life. However, we must remember that the sun hasn't gone anywhere. Although we can not see it at the moment.  Stay focused. Don't give up on your hopes and dreams. Once you pass the dark clouds, you will see the sunny times ahead.  Sincerely, Kurtice Lewis 

We live in a society that tends to glamorize the "microwave" lifestyle. We want everything fast. Get-rich-quick, Retire Early, Instacart, Door Dash, etc. Not that there's anything wrong with enjoying the modern-day conveniences of life. However, in most cases, we miss the lessons life is trying to teach along the way of the scenic route.  Think about all the times you were late for work or school. You rush and run a few traffic lights. Just to get to work/school and find out that your teacher or boss isn't even at work today. Imagine how annoyed this makes you feel to know that you did all that rushing to find out it was all in vain. In some unfortunate cases, you may have either caused an accident along the way or, even worse, ended up being in an accident and wound up hurt. This analogy does not only apply to accidents or absent teachers and bosses. This analogy applies to every area of your life.  Slow down a bit. You are going to be okay. Look around, and pay atte...

By now you are either beating yourself up because it is the third day in the new year and you still haven't started your new years resolution yet, or you are already crushing it and your are well on your way of achieving your goals.  Whether you are person 1 or 2 in this scenario, remember to not beat yourself up if you feel like you are falling behind. This is a weird time of the year to try starting a new goal, even if society would have us to believe "New year, new me".  Instead of struggling through the winter season to kick off your new goals and changes, try using these next three months to prepare for the spring season. You will be more prepared for when that time arrives because you would have already set your goals in motion since Jan 1. You will also look like a genius because by then those flakey people who started their resolution with lots of vigor in Jan 1, usually have already quit on their resolutions months ago lol, and you are just getting started. ...

Processing the loss of a loved one is never easy. Although it is inevitable that at some point in our lives we will have to deal with major losses, it never gets any easier. We, the surviving family members have to somehow find a way to pick up the pieces and move on. One important thing to remember, is that we all grieve in our own way. So, never judge yourself or others for not grieving in the way that may seem politically correct. It is your grief to bare, so you have to handle things on your own timing. Being there for close friends that have lost a loved one is also very important. Just being there to be a shoulder to lean on and cry on if need be. A listening ear and a pillar of comfort.  To anyone who has lost a loved one or friend in this season of your life, just know that you are not alone. Take the time to ensure that your mental and emotional health is in tact. Do not put any pressure on yourself to hurry back to work, meet deadlines, or any of that. Remember that if yo...

Do you actually know a lot, let alone enough about your industry?  It's been said that if you can't find at least 10 things about your industry that you can teach someone else, then you do not know enough. If you are worried about giving away all of the secret sauce then perhaps it's time to level up. Time to take more courses, find more mentors, or do more research about your industry.  The last thing you want, is for newbies to enter your field of expertise and surpass you quicker than the time it took you to master your craft. You also don't want others who are in your industry to know more than you. Take the time out to assess where you are, how much do you actually know? How much can you teach to someone else about your industry? If you discover that your knowledge is limited and you barely find 10 topics to discuss in your field of interest, then you may not know enough.  Sincerely, Kurtice Lewis #Kurticelewis

Lets talk about it. A word that can easily be vilified. Having ambition is not a bad thing, but operating in ones own self interest to the detriment of others can be. If everyone benefits, then there should not be anything wrong with it, once you are not purposely undermining the parties involved. There is also such a thing as ambition that can lead to unhealthy personal and health choices. We can be so focused on a goal that we ignore our personal, mental, physical, social and spiritual well being just to name a few. Chase after those big dreams, goals and aspirations. Having something enormous to chase after is good for our growth in life. Just be sure to take a moment to assess your life choices. Make you and the ones around you are in a good, healthy place. Otherwise, when its all said and done, you and the ones around you will be miserable and the entire journey would not have seemed worthwhile.  Sincerely, Kurtice Lewis #Kurticelewis

We all think that we are one of a kind special snowflakes, and you might be right. However, the journey to find out which industry and which specific roles we are supposed to be in in order for this to be proven is for some much more difficult to discover than others. For many, it may take an entire lifetime before they realize that the industry or role they were in all this time was not the right one for them in order for them to be the legend they were meant to be. Rest assured, the world will show you right away the truth about your talent, skills and ability. Unfiltered and unashamed. So be prepared to face the music. We may be special and extremely talented, but just make sure it is in the correct area designed for you. If not, then you will find out either quickly or eventually from the public. When this happens, don't get upset, depressed or offended. You may not be the snowflake you thought you were in that particular field, but that doesn't mean you may not be better s...

Selling lies in todays society most definitely seems to be the norm these days. Facing the truth is way more difficult than just simply choosing to believe a lie that is wrapped in some comforts that help us to avoid the truths that we don't want to deal with.  The issue with this is that the unavoidable truth is never going to go away. You are going to have to face the music one way or the other. Also, the realty of it is that in order for us to grow and level up we will need to tackle the truth head on.  Avoid putting yourself in situations where the only choice you may appear to have is to lie in order to avoid an uncomfortable situation. That also will not serve the ones around you in a good net positive way. Honesty is always the best policy. Believe it or not, you will gain more respect for being known as someone who tells the truth, rather than being known for being a liar. They may not like it at first because the truth stings like bees, but they will eventually get o...