We had the good fortune of connecting with Chavi Lewis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chavi, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Having a work-life balance is very important to me. Especially because I wear many hats and I’m often juggling multiple things. I’m a digital content creator, active-duty service member, college student, and wife. I also enjoy a myriad of other hobbies like roller-skating, gardening, weightlifting, and traveling. I find balance by separating professional obligations from my personal life and relationships. I’ll admit, as a content creator, it’s easy to blur the lines because it’s something I really enjoy, and I easily envision content opportunities during my leisure time. But I try to be intentional about time management and self-care. Maintaining a routine is vital to my balance and I’ve learned to only accept what I can manage in a healthy way. Digital planning has helped me tremendously as well.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

Building my brand keeps me quite busy. My desire is to inspire women to create a life they love, by their own definition. As a digital content creator, I strive to encourage women to be their best selves by elevating their lifestyle, practicing self-awareness, and optimizing their health, both physically and mentally. Ultimately, I want to add value to the lives of those within my sphere of influence.

I’m also passionate about being a creator because it allows me to share my artistic expression through beauty, fashion, lifestyle, and gardening content. I think my genuine spirit, authenticity, and relatability set me apart and have allowed me to build my community. In fact, one of the most rewarding aspects of the journey has been fostering a community of supportive and genuine people along the way, who are either creatives themselves or loyal admirers. It’s vital to have people rooting for you and for that I’m so grateful.

Two challenges inevitably associated with being a content creator are growth and recognition for the countless hours and effort dedicated to curating content that inspires and adds value. Nowadays, social media algorithms are so unpredictable, and there’s no guarantee that you’ll receive even the engagement you believe you deserve for the work you’ve put in. It’s easy to become discouraged and maybe even jaded. I stay level-headed by creating content that represents who I am and satisfies me while remaining consistent. We all start at humble beginnings as creators, so I enjoy the journey and find encouragement in confiding in those who understand the struggles, cheering on other creatives, and remembering my true driving force which is my passion.

I am most excited about seeing my dreams come to fruition and creating a path for myself that allows me to make a living while enjoying what I do every day, without it feeling like work or a sacrifice. I aspire to be a real-life example of representation in places where I may be a minority and work with brands that share my values. I’m most inspired when I see creatives who look like me, doing what I aspire to do. It lights a fire within me and it’s a reminder that my dreams are attainable and the things I desire are within my reach.

A lesson I’ve learned along this journey is the importance of staying true to yourself through self-awareness and allowing room for continuous growth. It’s also very important to have people in your corner who support your growth no matter the season of life. Over the past 5 years, I’ve learned so much about myself and I also recognize the reality that five years from now I will have evolved even more as a woman. Knowing that growth is not linear and it’s okay to do things differently or change your mind along your self-discovery journey, keeps me grounded.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love being out, trying new things, and connecting with new people so if my friend were visiting, I’d definitely show them a good time! We’d get dressed up and visit Javier’s in La Jolla for dinner because the food is delicious, the drinks are perfect, and the vibe is always just right. We’d walk La Jolla Cove for breathtaking views of the ocean and capture the scenery in a few pics. We’d also visit B Free Studio, a contemporary art gallery and a hidden gem in La Jolla, that showcases the work of emerging artists. I wouldn’t be a great friend if we didn’t visit Louisiana Purchase near Hillcrest for some authentic southern food and good music. Honestly, because the food is amazing, I’m sure my friend would like to visit again before leaving. And if they’re up for it, we’d roller skate at Liberty Station, one of the most popular locations in San Diego for skaters to meet and have a jam session.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

I must show my husband, Shaquille, love for always showing up for me, no matter the need, idea, or season. He gets the most intimate look into my growth and evolution as a woman, and he does a great job of creating a safe space for me to be the dreamer that I am while exploring my many interests and learning more about myself. He’s my number one supporter and I’m so grateful for his presence in my life.

I’d also love to credit my mom, Shawnika, for so much of who I am today. She is my best friend and one of my biggest supporters as well. In her eyes, there’s nothing I cannot do, and her consistent encouragement and genuine belief in me impact me more than she probably realizes. She’s that person that everyone deserves to have in their corner.

I love you both so, so much!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chavi.allie/ https://www.instagram.com/blackgirlwhoplants/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ChaviAllie

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