By Lashawnda Becoats
People ask me questions everyday. Sometimes it’s because I’m the editor of Pride magazine. Sometimes it’s because they know I’m a certified life coach. 
Sometimes people follow my fabulous adventures on social media. I love helping people so I decided to create an advice column based on the questions I get. Ask me anything. Hopefully my advice will help you and someone else.
Hi Lashawnda, I recently took the leap into entrepreneurship and am seeking advice on how to master work-life balance. I am married with children and want to spend time with them as often as possible, but I know that in order to be successful, I will need to put in long hours. Do you have any tips on how I can balance both? -The Struggle is Real
The Struggle is Real: Congratulations on your new business. Mastering work-life balance can be challenging but you can achieve harmony. Begin by asking yourself what success means to you because success is different for each person. Once you figure that out, it will help you determine how you will discipline yourself to create the balance you are striving for.
Start by being intentional about prioritizing and scheduling how much time you will spend daily on your business. This step will be the foundation for making sure you don’t overwork yourself. Next, be intentional about scheduling days and/or time daily for family time only. Turn off your phone and block out any other distractions to help you connect and spend quality time with the ones you love. In my experience, the best way to continue to master work life-balance is by not getting overwhelmed. Don’t forget to take time to replenish yourself by resting when you are tired and eating properly.
Hey Lashawnda, I’m trying to lose weight. Do you know a method to lose weight fast? –In A Hurry
In A Hurry- The fastest way I know to lose weight is to stop eating. Seriously, stop eating the things you know are contributing to your weight gain. No matter how much weight you’ve put on, remember it didn’t happen overnight. Getting rid of the weight won’t happen overnight either. Losing weight will take discipline, commitment and a balanced diet and exercise. If you aren’t sure how to drop the pounds in a healthy way, consult your doctor or a weight loss professional.
Hey Lashawnda – I’m feeling unmotivated right now. I love to read. Can you suggest a good book to get me going? – Pick Me Up
Pick Me Up: I love to read too! Books are a great way to get back on track when you are feeling out of whack. I really like the book “Jeffrey Gitomer’s Little Gold Book of Yes! Attitude”. It’s an easy read and full of fun, digestible tips to help you improve your attitude on a daily basis. I still refer to it on a regular basis. Happy reading!
Email Lashawnda with your questions at lbecoats@gmail.com You can also follow her at Facebook/Instagram: Lashawnda Becoats.