We had the good fortune of connecting with LaVeeta C. Hamilton and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi LaVeeta C., how has your work-life balance changed over time?
My work life balance has drastically changed over time in a good way. Previously my thought process was work, work, work and if I did not complete it myself it would not be completed the right way. At this point in my life I’ve learned how to delegate work and take time to take care of myself. Maintaining work life balance helps reduce stress and helps prevent work place burn out. Over time I have learned to take time to myself when needed and I have learned it is ok to say no. Unhealthy work life balance will eventually lead to physical consequences, chronic aches and pains and heart problems.
There is only one me (LaVeeta C. Hamilton) and I plan on living a healthy work life and personal life with a great work life balance. It has to be important to you in order for others to recognize it and respect that balance.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am currently the Executive Director of Family Promise of Collin County, a homeless shelter serving families. I am also a Qualified Mental Health Specialist working part time at Life Path Systems, the local mental health authority in Collin County. I am most proud of my education, I have an Associates Degree in Criminal Justice, Bachelors Degree in Behavioral Science and a Master’s Degree in Clinical Counseling and I am excited about helping people. The way I ended up where I am professionally is through relationship building, grit, dedication and the passion for serving and helping others. This was not easy but it was definitely the ride of a lifetime! I would not take anything back to this day, I have learned and grown personally and professionally throughout my journey, loving every moment of it. Just because I love it doesn’t mean it wasn’t easy. As an African American female there have been many challenges dealing with individuals who believed that I am angry because I was focused and doubted my ability to succeed because they were threatened by my confidence. What I want the world to know about my story is…If you trust in God, stay focused, positive, communicate effectively, be true to who you are and remain your true authentic self no matter what comes your way, you will succeed and shine. Remember, you are a diamond, nobody can break you!
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If we have a whole week we are going to have the time of our lives! We will start at Nick and Sams Steakhouse for dinner and drinks then go to the Dallas Symphony Orchestra at Myerson Symphony Center checking out the tribute to Aretha Franklin (I went last weekend and it was AMAZING). Day two we would go to Wingfield’s breakfast & burgers then head over to EXTREME sandbox in Sachse to destroy everything in sight, having dinner and drinks at Shell Shack in Plano. Day three we would go shopping at Willow Bend Mall and head up to Legacy West for more shopping along with food and drinks at one of the many places to eat in the area. Day four we would go to the Allen gun range then head over to Blue Fish in Allen, music and shopping possibly heading downtown Dallas later that evening for drinks at Waterproof rooftop bar. One of the most fun interesting places I have experienced in Dallas so far is the State Fair, you will meet the friendliest people, experience some of the BEST food and drinks and have thee best time people watching!
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
God deserves all of the credit and recognition in my story! My mother and my children, without them I would not have a story to tell. I have grown in several different ways throughout the last couple of years, I have been blessed to experience cohorts with Kimberly Williams and Dallas Truth, Racial Healing & Transformations Black Women in Nonprofit Leadership, allowing me to grow professionally and personally and also allowing me to remain my true authentic self. I have many friends to thank who have stood beside me as I bloomed to become the professional I am today.
Website: familypromiseofcollincounty.org
Instagram: @familypromiseofcollin
Facebook: Family Promise of Collin County