“Being willing to give up something good for something great requires trust that something better is always coming” There’s a common misconception in our society, especially with women, that you have to choose between your work or a relationship. There are women who report being passed up for a job that required travel because it was assumed that that wouldn’t be appropriate for her marriage. There are other women who despite outperforming their counterparts are axed during mandatory lay-offs because big engagement rings signaled they would be okay. It’s crazy to think of what we go through as women. This whole ring thing can get complicated. A big ring can earn you respect in the workplace or it can also be your downfall. My guest today is on a mission to prove that it is possible to overcome these stereotypes. You can do so by treating yourself the way you want to be treated. Let people know you are a person of power, by respecting yourself. When you respect your time, others will learn to respect it, as well. And this lesson goes both ways, in both your personal and business life. Take the time to treat your personal life like a business. Schedule things you love, and block off time for it like you would any business meeting. Just like you wouldn’t be late for a lunch appointment with a big client, don’t be late for your dinner appointment with your spouse. This will not only help you achieve harmony in your work and business life, but it’ll make you more productive and present in both. If you know you can’t work late, you’re going to work harder during the day to make sure you meet all of your deadlines. At the same time, by scheduling time for those around you and treating it like you would a business meeting you’re going to appreciate the time and be more present. To dive more into this, I interviewed author of the new book Boss Bride (and one of my good girlfriends) Charreah K. Jackson. Charreach is an international speaker, coach and ESSENCE Senior Editor, empowering the brand's global audience of 13 million. Her informed point-of-view has been featured on CNN, The CW, ABC News, Fortune and TIME. This is an episode any woman in business NEEDS to listen to, so download it now. “Life doesn’t have to be ‘either/or.’ Always give yourself the option of ‘AND’.” The Cliff Notes: Anyone at any age can be a boss bride. Make vows for you to be the woman that you want to be. You are judged based on your relationship status at work. Life doesn’t have to full of “ORs.” Always give yourself the option of an ‘AND.’ After you go hard, you have to go home. It’s making informed choices that give you life by looking inside first, then out. Look for signs you aren’t taking care of yourself with the SOSelfcare signs. Your personal life won’t take care of itself - you need to plan it out just as much as your business life. I was tired of giving my leftovers to the things I love most. Every woman you see who is really powerful, makes sure that her “NO!” and “WHY” are strong. Our expansion often comes with an exit. Love is not a passive thing. You have to treat yourself the way you want others to treat you. Our dreams live outside of our comfort zone. “One of the best gifts you can give yourself is to honor how sacred and special your time is.”