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

Hi Jazmin, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Prior to being married and becoming a mother, my life consisted of working full-time and enjoying happy hour with friends two to three times per week, indulging in self-care frequently, and managing my time effortlessly. Now, I find myself constantly trying to find an acceptable work-life balance; which, I’ve recently discovered doesn’t exist. For me, it’s become apparent that in life one aspect of your life will at times bleed into another. You can’t plan for the unforeseen (which seemingly is the norm now days). Therefore, I have formulated this plan to assist me with staying sane:

-Be present at work and attempt to give 100% to my job function during the day, use breaks and/or lunch to accomplish personal tasks (i.e. schedule appointments, order groceries, etc.).

-Leave work at work so that you can be present with family. After working hours and weekends are reserved for my family. In the event that I’m not able to complete all of my work-related tasks, I dedicate a number of hours on one weekend day to working.

-Schedule time-off for self-care; and keep it a secret. I’ve learned the hard way that sharing your planned off days with others, can backfire. It’s okay to keep your respite days to yourself.

-Extend yourself grace when work and life are chaotic! Remember, this is a season and it won’t always be hectic.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing Social Work for 10 years. My undergraduate degree is in Advertising/Public Relations. I became a Social Worker initially to assist others with mental health issues as I’ve struggled with Major Depressive Disorder for most of my adult life. I am most proud of obtaining my LCSW, although I haven’t utilized it in the clinical practice arena.

The biggest challenge I’ve overcome is finding my niche in Social Work. There are a plethora of jobs and functions Social Workers can be employed in. I’ve been a Case Manager for most of my Social Work career. However, in the last year I discovered that I enjoy education. This realization prompted me to create The Sanctuary Resource Network Social Purpose Corporation and provide continuing education to social workers and caregivers (professional/personal). I started this business during the height of the Pandemic, which presented a host of challenges.

I’ve learned that although I’m ambitious and driven, I can’t accomplish all of my goals at the same time. Prioritizing and setting realistic goals are the best ways for me to achieve my short and long-term goals. Reviewing my business goals with my business mentors has been key in that it’s given me the opportunity to receive constructive feedback and revise some of my plans.

I want the world to know that I’m passionate about helping others, transparent about my journey to get where I am, and willing to connect others to the resources/network to assist them in becoming the best version of themselves.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Eat: TJ’s Seafood Market, Kona Grill

Drink: The Happiest Hour, Lost Oak Winery

Visit: Ross Perot Museum, Klyde Warren Park,

Hangout: Truck Yard, Stock Yards

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to thank Jesus, my family and friends for their support in my endeavors. I’d like to shout out ThinkRikki LLC, Sherrain Myles Professional Services, Real Organized Advocacy, Innovative Business Coach, and RISE StartUp Greater Good for assisting me on my entrepreneurial journey.

Website: Sanctuaryresourcenetwork.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sanctuary_resource_network/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSanctuaryRN

Image Credits
Lauren Bethany Photography

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