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

Hi Tonya, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
It’s kind of funny that I used to believe that I had a really good concept of balance but as life has interjected itself into my overall scheme, I have realized that I had been acting very reactive to the things that happened in my life. Professionally, I was always willing to lean in and help others. I had the habit of refilling everyone’s bucket, until I realized my bucket had gone dry.

Over the past 4 years, I have become very purposeful in how I engage and disengage. I set time to recharge and I’m unapologetic about how that time – spent on me is not always convenient for others. I still give to others, I’m just reasonable and have gotten comfortable with the word “no”.

In short, my intentional me time has lifted my spirits, brightened my physicality and given me a glow of joy. I encourage everyone to pencil that time for you. I started with 10-15 min blocks, now I’ve elevated to 15 – 21 days of ME! In this I found a new passion in writing, had the opportunity to publish 2 books and reconnect with key people in my life.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a twice published author. I write stories about successful Black people who experience real life. My writing is a true derivation of my love of reading. I’m a fan of immersive story telling. My favorite authors include Toni Morrison, Anne Rice, Stephen King and Kate Mosse. They all found ways to place you in their highly creative worlds and become attached to one or more characters.
My first book was bred out of my need for therapeutic relief. My father was going through his transition from this world, and I needed an escape while still being present. I would write at night and read new pages to him during the day. He asked me to publish, and I told him I would.
From the first time in the process to the second, I had different purpose. The second book was for me. I loved the process of not just writing but making it real and being able to turn the physical pages. I was grossly involved in the artistic process and felt there was intent behind every symbol, use of dialect and image.
Now, I want my brand to be about relatable stories and real relationships. My characters have flaws and I show them. I want people to see that even with highly visible flaws success is still possible. Love is still possible.

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?
Friday night – Happy Hour at Lure. There’s great food, friendly staff but ultimately, it’s the bar staff that keeps you there after happy hour ends. Saturday – AM: Recharge walk/hike on Kennesaw Mountain. Best views of Atlanta, if you make it to the top.
Brunch: First Watch (pick one, they are all good)
PM: Dinner at The Select Restaurant + Bar in Roswell. Beautiful environment and great clean food choices.
Sunday – Brunch and Hugs at Canoe (It’s good eating on the river!)

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My greatest success comes from my father, Leroy Lockhart. He saw my potential even when I had doubts. He pushed me through my fears and held me when I failed (but not too long). He was my inspiration to keep trying.

Secondary to him, I would have to say that Karla Anderson, my former leader at Comcast, and Cassandra Lee Austin, my former leader at Delta, had the next greatest impacts. One taught me the true value of playing to my strengths and the other taught me that not all dreams are for a lifetime and its ok to live in reality.

I would not be as grateful and adventurous if it were not for these three people.

Instagram: @tonyalockhartwrites

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/tonyalockhart-consultant

Other: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dream-divine-tonya-lockhart/1129601923?ean=9781643002743 https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/paternal-poise-tonya-lockhart/1141675081?ean=9781649132093

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