We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Ashley, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Work life balance is very important! For a while I struggled with this. Over time I have challenged myself to take better care of myself by doing things that I enjoy. With my change in perspective and mindset, June Publishing’s best selling items were birthed – “Self Care Journal” and the “Worthy Card Deck”.
What’s the point in working constantly, making money and still not being able to enjoy your life?
One of the reasons why I created the “Self Care Journal” and the “Worthy Card Deck” is to encourage people to take care of themselves by doing activities they would have never thought to do.
When participating in one of these activities, you are able to create a life for yourself outside of work. Who knew that walking through a butterfly garden would make you happy, boost your creativity and relieve stress? Who knew that bird watching was so peaceful? Who knew that kick boxing would relieve some stress and decrease some of your angst?
The “Worthy Card Deck” is filled with self care activities, mindfulness activities, words of affirmation, encouraging words and gratitude cards.
The best part of it all is that you are creating a new environment for yourself to learn something new, meet new people and have fun!
In essence, overtime, my work life balance has become better. I love what I do while I’m at work, but I also truly enjoy my life outside of work.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
As a little girl, I enjoyed writing and creating. I have always been an avid writer where I journal my thoughts, feelings, goals, life events, fiction stories, etc. What began as a way of self-expression soon developed into a passion. I never knew where my writing would lead until recently. God led me to the idea of publishing my first book “Story Time” and creating my own publishing company. The aim of this publishing house is to encourage, inspire and enlighten the masses to self publish their own work. June Publishing was named after my grandmother June Elaine Hector Lewis who was also a fellow creative and teacher.
I wouldn’t say that creating and following through with June Publishing was easy but with God, ALL things are possible.
I overcame my challenges by having amazing accountability partners (friends and family). I would not have pursued this fully without them.
The lessons I have learned along the way is to take your time and do your research. Run your race and stop trying to rush your building phase/process. If you do this, you could possibly set yourself back. Stay focused on what you have to offer and what you are doing. Never allow anything you see on social media or other influences to rush you into something you are not ready for!
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Downtown Savannah, Planet Riverside, City Market or 520 Tavern.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to shout out God, my friends and family members that continue to encourage and inspire me daily. Without them, there would be no June Publishing. I love you all, THANKYOU!
Thankyou Geechie Rootz for believing in our book “Story Time”! You all are the first business to sell our book and card deck within your store and we are forever grateful!
Geechie Rootz is located within Savannah, Tanger Outlets.
Please check out their store and shop our products. 🙂
Website: junepublishing.com
Instagram: @junepublishing
Facebook: @junepublishing
Other: For ALL things June Publishing visit our Linktr.ee. https://linktr.ee/Junepublishing WE SELL MERCH TOO! Visit our Linktr.ee and click on “June Publishing Merch”.