We had the good fortune of connecting with Jasmin Forts, MBA and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Jasmin, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
I don’t believe there is really such a thing as work life balance. I believe it is more like work life harmony. Balance implies all things in my life weigh the same and that is not true for me at all. I’ve learned to ebb and flow as needed as a Wife, Mother, Professional, and Business owner. I’ve worked hard on understanding what it means to have harmony in these areas in my life so I can rest according to my needs and turn on according to the needs of my family, work, or business. It is a constant theme in my life but I do so in order to stay sane!
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I have been consulting on Rest deficits and FMLA solutions for Black women professionals. It has been surprisingly fruitful but on another not sad to see so many of us stressed and unaware of how to get harmony in our lives. Siesta Solutions, LLC has turned into a thriving community called A Sisters Siesta. It’s based off the book I wrote as well. This is a needed support group and annual retreat I host. One day, I hope to have a physical space to embody all this needed work. But for now, we meet at a local Therapist’s office when needed. The retreats are hosted at various domestic locations because escapism ain’t it! Sometimes a flight to Jamaica isn’t possible. We practice practical rest in our local environments so we learn how to create wherever we are.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’d take them to Chattahoochee Coffee Company for tea and to catch up in a tranquil environment. This is one of my favorite spots to gather my thoughts and work. Next, I’d recommend Eclipse De Luna for lunch… they have best tapas and the service is always so efficient. Dinners at Fletcher’s at Stonecrest is always a good idea. The food and music is on point and it’s one of the places where native Atlantans go!
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to shout out Sable from Real Brown Girls for her continuous support and sisterhood in business. She is a constant light in this journey. My husband is always doing all the things that aren’t glamorous or recognized in business… without him I could never be as far as I am in all the endeavors I have or embarking on. Last but least- the one book that has kept me grounded and focus on my rest, “Sacred Rest” by Dr. Saundra Dalton Smith. It’s like a breath of fresh air everytime I read it. Grateful for Dr. Dalton- Smith dropping so many gems and wisdom for us to function as better humans in the modern world.
Website: asisterssiesta.com
Instagram: @signedwellrestedjas
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasminfortsknowstalent/
Twitter: @asisterssiesta
Facebook: Signed Well Rested Jas
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCs_ESeGwwJsOL2vIpQ9qbqA
Image Credits
Raquita Weathers of BelleRouge Photography