Name: Akilah Richards
Location: Atlanta, GA
Occupation: Life Coach
Connect: www.execumama.com

Akilah,

You are so blessed to be loved and protected by so many—never forget that. You are about to go on a journey that will test every bit of love and support that now surrounds you in abundance. Your job is to be present, be honest, and give your mother a bit more space to see through all this “stuff”.

When you move, you will experience things—some of them wonderful, some of them quite the opposite. But all of it will help shape who you become as a woman, and let me tell you, Akilah–you grow up to be a pretty incredible woman!

Elementary and middle school will be rough. It’s okay! Don’t let them rattle you so much; they don’t know any better.

High school will teach you a lot about yourself and your needs; pay close attention. You will make a handful of lifelong friends, so remember to focus less on the people that pull you down, and more on the ones who leave you feeling uplifted.

College will change your life immensely; be super-present! Don’t worry so much about not fitting in. Instead, nurture the relationships that come to you organically, and remember to have compassion for the people who do/say things you don’t like. This is where your radical self-expression philosophy really starts to take shape, so be easy with yourself, okay?

Overall, Akilah, you have an interesting journey ahead. Remember compassion and curiosity when you feel hurt or stuck. Remember to use your tenacity to carry you through the rougher roads on the journey. Most of all, know that by the time you reach age 30 (I know, it feels like a million years away), you will be well aligned with your purpose, well on your way with a family clearly gifted to you by Creator, and happily expressing yourself and sharing your gifts.

Keep smiling, Akilah–you’ve got plenty of Great Work to experience and to give.

Love always,
She