Living, Laughing, and Loving My Way to Liberation
Last week, I got outside. Not just outside, but outside, outside—three events, full-blown peopling, packed into one weekend. And guess what? I ended up with a cold.
It hit me right after day one—a beautiful gathering where I spent the day in brave
community, doing one of the things I love most: leaning into deep, courageous conversations with women leaders looking to build sustainable careers while prioritizing rest as liberation. Honestly, it doesn’t get better than that. It’s my favorite topic and also a constant reminder that I’m still on this journey, too.
The other two events? Family celebrations, full of life and laughter and those bittersweet reminders of how fleeting it all is. The kind of moments that leave you holding onto stories about burned collard greens and conch fritters. Other moments, watching this little lady sip tea, pinky up, with friends, and no care in the world.
But today? I’m laying here, tissues in one hand, tea in the other, trying not to give in to the pull to do. To work, perform, produce. My body is tired, my immune system feels like it’s waving a little white flag, and I know I need to listen.
Here’s the thing: I’ve been reflecting on how my usual routine—a remote work bubble of drop-offs, pick-ups, random date nights, and a revolving door of family movements—has kept me secluded. But it’s also made me feel distant. Closed off, even. I started feeling the pull to get out there, so I prayed about it, set some goals, and here we are in the first month of 2025, getting out there.
The problem? The world feels and is… complicated. There’s always something looming—the next COVID strain, political noise, even the stress that somehow sneaks into the remote world.
Still, I know this: I can’t live in fear. I need connection. We need connection. So, I’ve been turning to something that helps me get unstuck—the ROOT Framework. It’s not some big, fancy plan; it’s more like a gentle nudge to take small, brave steps.
Reflect: I’m calling out the habits and fears that keep me stuck, like telling myself, It’s comfortable at home—just stay here.
Open: I’m leaning into the idea that something beautiful waits on the other side—like shared laughter, new perspectives, or even a little joy in light conversation.
Overcome: I’m gathering up my courage, one deep breath at a time, to push through the discomfort of stepping out.
Thrive: And when I do? I’ll celebrate. Not with anything big—maybe just a smile at the progress or a quiet moment of gratitude.
It’s not about having it all figured out. It’s about freedom. Each small, brave step I take is a reminder that I don’t have to live with the limits I’ve placed on myself.
I will no longer be my own oppressor.
So, here’s where I’m starting: one brave thing a week. It might be as simple as saying yes to an invitation, making small talk with someone new, or just stepping out for a walk when the air feels heavy.
And I’d love for you to join me. The One Brave Thing a Week Challenge is all about using the ROOT Framework to take steps toward connection, courage, and a little more joy.
Download your free copy of the ROOT Framework and get ready to start the challenge with us on February 1.
Thanks for reading and stay well!
Samantha