We had the good fortune of connecting with Dr. LaSheyla Jones and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dr. LaSheyla, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Everyone’s purpose is connected to people in some capacity. I believe it is our Godly duty to help others. I desired to have influence in both physical design and policy because I felt and understood that many underserved residents could and would benefit most with an environment that was positive and socially organized. I also understood the importance of policies that serve and protect residents and their properties within the community as a whole. The focus of my business is to develop flourishing neighborhoods that also provide support for communal parties.

What should our readers know about your business?
LMJ Planning and Development is a planning company, birthed to provide service for socially disorganized communities. We are different from other companies because we utilize a holistic approach to urban design and policy. We use this approach because our focus is not only to design communities but to enhance and stabilize the community structurally, residentially, economically, and politically. The journey thus far has certainly had it’s challenges and we are still growing and learning as a company. However, I have learned that challenges provide the best knowledge as most people don’t learn from their successes but rather their failures. I have learned that everything happens for a purpose and the enemy of completion is perfection. Many people don’t start because they do not know each step. However our job is not to know the exact how or why, but to simply say yes and move forward. If you are consistent and diligent in your learning and action, everything will work itself out. I would like the world to know that the best thing you can do is live in your purpose and pursue your dreams. My brand is growing daily, but I had to learn to embrace the journey and you will be able to handle the challenges and victories.

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.
One of my most favorite places in the Triple D is Taco Y Vino. I’m talking best tacos, great drinks, amazing staff, and a cute and cozy environment. Klyde Warren Park is always fun and a one stop shop where you can chill, play, and the food trucks are bomb. Terry Black BBQ and the whole Bishop Arts District is a whole vibe. Also Farmers Market would certainly be a must go along with exploring the Downtown chronicles. Uptown in Cedar Hill, Tx also seems to give my buddies joy.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My life is definitely a reflection of God’s grace and mercy. He has definitely orchestrated a solid foundation of support from my family, friends, and colleagues. My friend Arica Bailey is a business owner with CGES|Bailey Planning, and she most definitely was one of the people who pushed me to let go of my perfectionist spirit and to just start. She also is one that reminds me to take care of my health (mental and physical) as that is my ultimate wealth. My friend Dr. Lorin R. Carter of C-Suite Consulting is brilliant. She is a praying, consulting, amazing person with a h spirit to match. She knows a lot about a lot and will share her knowledge. My husband Maurice and three children (Maurice Jr., Lyric, and Major) has most definitely equally been my biggest support system and motivation to accomplish my goals. To be honest my village, God, family, and friends have all truly been phenomenal pieces in creating my overall picture.

Website: LMJCityPlanningandDevelopment.com

Instagram: LMJPlanningandDevelopment and Dr_LaSheylaJones

Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/lasheyla-jones-ph-d-m-arch-57853879

Twitter: @DrLaSheyla

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