Dear readers,

Self-sabotage is real. It sneaks into our thoughts, tells us we’re not good enough, and convinces us that we’re destined to fail. It starts as a small voice, a doubt in our minds that tells us we can’t do something. That voice grows louder, convincing us we aren’t worthy of success. It’s a dangerous cycle, and it’s something we all experience—no matter our age.

I saw a post from my cousin, Jamelia, on her Facebook page, and it hit me so deeply that I knew I had to share it. With her permission, I’m using her words because this message is too powerful to keep to myself:

Dear readers,

Friendships are some of the most cherished relationships we build. They often shape who we are, offering support, laughter, and memories that last a lifetime. But not all friendships are forever, and that’s okay. Sometimes, life takes us down separate paths, and those we once called friends become distant chapters in our story.

Tupac Shakur once said,

Reflecting on 2024: Lessons, Gratitude, and Bold Intentions for 2025

Dear Readers,

As we close the chapter on 2024 and step into the fresh pages of 2025, I find myself reflecting on the lessons, moments, and milestones that have shaped this past year. It was a year of challenges that pushed me, triumphs that inspired me, and quiet moments that reminded me of what truly matters.

This year taught me to embrace the unexpected and find beauty in imperfection. It reminded me that growth often comes from the most uncomfortable places and that joy can be found

41 & Thriving: Embracing Growth, Gratitude, and New Beginnings

Dear Readers,

41 looks amazing on me, and I’m fully here for it! There was a time when I dreaded the idea of turning 40. It felt like this looming milestone that carried so much weight—societal expectations, self-reflection, and an unspoken pressure to have “figured it all out.” But stepping into my 40s has been one of the most empowering chapters of my life, and now, as I embrace 41, I do so with confidence, gratitude, and yes—a tiara to match!

This year, my birthday wasn’t just about marking another year of life; it was about celebrating the woman I’ve become. I’ve grown stronger in ways I never imagined, faced challenges that tested my resilience, and discovered a deeper sense of

Parenting and Perception: Challenging the Norms

Dear Readers,

Today, I want to share a profound conversation I had with my daughter. She brought up a powerful point about how society often views parenting—and the double standards that come with it.

She asked why single fathers are frequently praised simply for showing up, while single mothers—who carry the weight of parenting day in and day out—are seen as just fulfilling their “duty.” Why is a father celebrated for doing what he’s supposed to do, while a mother rarely receives the same recognition?

This isn’t to take anything away from fathers. In fact, I’m one of those people who often celebrate dads fo

December’s Warm Embrace: A Season of Magic and Reflection

Dear readers,

As the final month of the year greets us, December brings with it a special kind of magic—a blend of reflection, celebration, and anticipation for what lies ahead. It’s a time when the air feels crisper, the lights shine brighter, and the world seems to slow down just enough for us to savor the little moments that truly matter.

December is a season of traditions, whether it’s decorating the tree, baking cookies, or gathering with loved ones to share stories and laughter. It’s also a time of contrasts—the warmth of a cozy home against the chill outside, the hustle of holiday preparations paired with quiet moments of gratitude.

For me, December holds a unique place

From Ambition to Burnout: How I Learned to Walk Away From a Toxic Workplace

Dear readers,

There’s something I need to get off my chest—my experience working at a company that lost sight of what truly matters. It’s one of those lessons that you learn the hard way, but it’s also one that’s left me with some serious reflections about workplace culture.

When I first started, I was hopeful. I believed in the company’s mission and thought it would be a place where I could grow, contribute, and build something meaningful. But that quickly changed. When a company becomes more focused on numbers than on the well-being of its employees, it creates a toxic, competitive environment that’s anything but healthy.

What they don’t tell you is that this constant pressure to perform doesn’t just burn you out—it strips away the sense of camaraderie. Suddenly, it’s not about team effort. It’s about survival. The environment becomes cutthroat, where colleagues aren’t coworkers anymore—they’re competitors. And in an

Standing Up for Yourself: Boundaries Are an Act of Self-Care

Dear readers,

I came across a TikTok recently that really made me reflect. In it, a woman calmly tried to stand her ground against a passenger who was kicking the back of her seat on a plane. Instead of the aggressor being called out, it was her who ended up being threatened with removal from the flight. She remained composed, but somehow, she still became the person who seemed to be punished for simply asserting herself.

It hit me hard because I’ve been in situations where I’ve stood up for myself, set boundaries, and yet ended up feeling like the bad guy. We’re often taught to be kind and patient, to let things slide. But when does that kindness turn into letting ourselves be walked over? When does our patience get taken for granted?

Setting boundaries shouldn’t feel like an offense. And yet, so many of us find ourselves punished for it, made to feel guilty for finally putting

Building Authentic Donor Relationships: A Guide for Nonprofits

Dear readers,

When it comes to fundraising, one of the most important skills you can develop is the ability to connect with donors—especially those who have the capacity to make a transformative impact. But for many nonprofits, particularly those just starting out, approaching high-net-worth individuals can feel intimidating.

Over the years, I’ve discovered that the key isn’t about crafting the perfect pitch; it’s about building authentic relationships. One of the best pieces of advice I can share is to make a genuine

Lost in Labels: The Endless Cycle of Classification

Dear readers,

Lately, I’ve been feeling overwhelmed by how often people are divided into groups, classes, and labels. It seems like no matter where we look, there’s always a new box to put someone in. Even when you think you’re part of a unified group, like a political party or a religion, you realize that there are still divisions within. Whether it’s race, religion, or politics, it feels like we’re constantly sorting ourselves into categories: the haves and the have-nots, Republicans versus Democrats, or even deeper divisions within those categories.

It’s exhausting.

It seems like if you’re a Democrat, then you must be a minority. If you’re from Texas, they assume you’re a certain way. If you’re Black, White, Hispanic — the assumptions just pile on. If you’re from the South, people assume you’re conservative, maybe even backward in your thinking. If you’re from California, you’re automatically

Beyond the Month: Continuing the Fight for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention

Dear readers,

As September comes to a close, so does Suicide Prevention Awareness Month—a month that holds great importance for countless individuals who have silently struggled with mental health challenges. But the fight for awareness, understanding, and compassion doesn’t end here. Mental health isn’t something we focus on for just 30 days a year. It’s a lifelong journey, and this month is just a reminder of how crucial it is to support one another year-round.

We’ve talked about how many people suffer in silence, the stigma around seeking help, and the resources available for those in need. But now that the spotlight on suicide prevention begins to dim, the question is: how can we keep the conversation going?

Breaking the Silence: A Call for Understanding and Support During Suicide Awareness Month

Dear readers,

September is Suicide Awareness Month, a time to shed light on the often hidden struggles that so many face daily. It’s a month dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues, recognizing that countless individuals suffer in silence, wearing masks that conceal their true feelings. These masks can be deceiving; they allow others to see a smile, a laugh, or a seemingly content demeanor, all while hiding deep pain and despair within.

We live in a world where mental health struggles are often shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding. Many people feel too ashamed to admit they’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or any mental health disorder. They worry that speaking out will seem ungrateful for

Celebrating Labor Day: Honoring the Dedication That Drives Us

Hello, dear readers,

Today we celebrate Labor Day, a time to honor the hardworking individuals who contribute so much to our communities. It’s a day to reflect on the value of hard work and to acknowledge the dedication that keeps everything running smoothly.

Labor Day is more than just a long weekend or the unofficial end of summer; it’s a chance to recognize and appreciate the efforts of those who labor tirelessly, whether they’re on the front lines, behind the scenes, or balancing multiple roles at once. From the

Embracing the New School Year: A Tribute to All Who Shape Our Future

Hello Friends,

Welcome back to Just Catrina, where I share my journey, insights, and a little bit of everything in between. Whether you’re here for the laughs, the lessons, or just to see what I’m up to, I’m glad you’re here.

It’s been a while since I last posted—since July, to be exact. I decided to take the summer off to spend time with my family, soaking up every moment of togetherness before the school year began. And now, here we are, stepping into another school year, but this one feels different, more poignant.

As a parent this year, the reality hit me hard:

Grow Through What You Go Through: Embracing Adversity as a Path to Personal Growth

Dear Readers,

Life’s journey is a tapestry woven with threads of joy, sorrow, and everything in between. Along the way, we encounter moments that test our resolve, push us to our limits, and ultimately shape us into the people we are today. It’s in these moments of adversity that we have the opportunity to discover our inner strength and resilience, and to grow in ways we never thought possible.

Reflecting on my own experiences, I’ve come to appreciate the profound wisdom embedded in the mantra “Grow through what you go through.” It’s a philosophy that speaks to the transformative power of adversity—the notion that

Embracing Mistakes: Transforming Setbacks into Success

Greetings, dear readers,

Have you ever thought about how some of the best things in life come from what seems like mistakes or mishaps? Consider how sand, under intense pressure, transforms into a diamond. Or how a humble caterpillar turns into a beautiful butterfly after a period of metamorphosis. These transformations illustrate how what may seem like a setback can lead to something more valuable and beautiful.

The same principle applies to our lives and our mistakes. You are not defined by your mistakes. In fact, mistakes are the

Welcome July! A Fresh Start for New Goals

Greetings, dear readers,

As June closes and July begins, it’s the perfect time to reflect, reset, and refocus. Whether you’re looking to set goals for the month or the second half of the year, this is your moment to embrace new opportunities and challenges.

Reflect

For me, the first half of this year has been a journey of highs and lows. I’ve celebrated successes and faced challenges head-on. Reflecting on these moments, I realize how much I’ve grown. Take a moment to look back at your achievements and lessons from the first half of the year. What went well? What can be improved? Reflection is a powerful

Breaking the Silence: Men’s Mental Health Awareness Beyond June

Greetings, dear readers,

Today, I want to emphasize a topic that remains crucial not just during Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month in June, but every single day of the year: men’s mental health awareness. While it’s essential to have dedicated awareness months, the conversation must extend beyond these designated periods to ensure ongoing support and understanding.

As an advocate for mental health across the board, I’m particularly passionate about shedding light on the unique challenges that men face when it comes to mental well-being. For far too long, societal norms and expectations have perpetuated the notion that

God Speaks Our Language

On a recent Sunday morning at church, we were graced with the presence of a missionary who shared a powerful and moving story. His talk was filled with inspiring accounts of the amazing work being done and the incredible things happening around the world. Yet, amidst all these wonderful stories, one particular moment stood out to me profoundly: the realization of a woman who said, “God speaks our language.”

Imagine living your life feeling as though the divine is distant, unable to fully understand your unique voice, culture, and heart. And then, in a moment of

Turning Cruelty into Courage: Empowering Others in the Face of Hate

Last night, as I was in the kitchen cleaning, my daughter innocently grabbed my phone. Little did I know that she would be the one to come across the awful words that had been sent to me. It was lousy, to say the least, to have her witness such hate expressed on my device.

I had politely suggested starting as friends to a guy who asked me out, hoping to handle the situation with kindness and respect. His response was shockingly mean-spirited. He not only attacked me personally but also resorted to