Connecting dots. I always say that’s my superpower. And lately, the dots have been connecting in ways that stop me in my tracks.
My therapist, Dr. Wanda, told me: “Lena, I’m proud of you—your mental health has finally caught up with your ambition.” Whew.
Yes, I’ve done well.
My daughter,
@dejamalaysia walking me through NYU Tisch asks: “Mom, how does it feel to have both of your kids in elite schools?” I smiled. I need to sit with that.
Yes, I’ve done well.
PJ, getting his footing at Woodward, says to his dad: “I’m one of the smartest here. I just need to improve my athletics so I can earn both academic and sports scholarships.” Hearing that secondhand, I smiled.
Yes, I’ve done well.
My mother—random text out of the blue: “Baby, I’m so proud of you. Knowing your story and how far you’ve come.” I smiled again.
Yes, I’ve done well.
At least four Black women have reached out asking for advice on navigating corporate. Made me wonder—should I be doing Office Hours with Lena?
Yes, I’ve done well.
And while life feels crazy right now—relocating to ATL, balancing fractional CMO work, and family shifts—gratitude is heavy on me. I’ve also been slowly building Honeymane Hair on the side for 7 years. Recently, 2-3 stylists reached out for wholesale. I love curating hair. Some people like thrifting—I like hair.
Yes, I’ve done well. (New website coming 💕 when I have time. And no rush—because it’s mine.)
I’m a long way from that 16-year-old teen mom who had never stepped on a college campus until her own, never been to a wedding until her own, never seen a marriage work until her own, never seen women age and still thrive until I created it for myself.
What was once unknown, I’ve built.
I’ve done well.
And just so we’re clear… I’m that b*tch. ✨
