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  • how to attend networking events alone. imge of two ladies sitting down talking.
    Entrepreneurship | networking | Personal Development

    How to Attend Networking Events Alone: For Beginners

    Note: this post was originally published in April 2023, but has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness. Why Attend Networking Events Networking events are the…

    Read More How to Attend Networking Events Alone: For BeginnersContinue

  • image that says I cant can and the word cant is crossed out.
    Encouragement | Mindset | Personal Development

    10 Toxic and Negative Thoughts You Need to Release

    In this eye-opening blog post, delve into the detrimental impact of negative self-talk and discover practical strategies to break free from its grip. Explore 10 common toxic thoughts and empower yourself with 5 effective techniques to cultivate a more positive mindset. It’s time to silence the inner critic and unleash your true potential!

    Read More 10 Toxic and Negative Thoughts You Need to ReleaseContinue

  • How to practice self love and stop being a people pleasing
    Encouragement | Mindset | Personal Development | Womanhood

    How to Stop Being a People Pleaser and Practice Self Love

    Are you tired of constantly seeking validation from others? Discover the truth about being a people pleaser and how it impacts your life. Learn the signs, understand the root causes, and find empowering steps to break free from this exhausting cycle. It’s time to reclaim your power and prioritize your own well-being.

    Read More How to Stop Being a People Pleaser and Practice Self LoveContinue

  • Image of a woman writing in her planner with a cell phone and book sitting next to her
    Faith | Journaling | Personal Development

    How to Start a Life-Changing Prayer Journal This Year

    Starting a prayer journal is a life changing habit you need to start. Use this ultimate guide to journaling your prayers to get started.

    Read More How to Start a Life-Changing Prayer Journal This YearContinue

  • square image of a woman painting on a canvas with very colorful strokes
    Encouragement | Family | Mom Life | Personal Development | Womanhood

    The Ultimate Guide to Avoid Losing Yourself in Motherhood

    Mom guilt is real and often the reason many moms completely give up on maintaining their authentic selves after becoming a mom. It is innate for us to want to put our all into being the best mom possible to our children and that is amazing. However, we have to be careful not to neglect our authentic selves in the pursuit of being “supermom”.

    Read More The Ultimate Guide to Avoid Losing Yourself in MotherhoodContinue

  • Image of a sign that says digital detox on a table with a laptop, headphones smart watch, cell phone, and tablet.
    Blogger Tips | Encouragement | Faith | Personal Development

    Digital Detox: Everything You Need for a Social Media Fast

    A Digital Detox is a game-changer, a deliberate break from the whirlwind of endless scrolling and likes. For me, it was a crucial realization—I had let social media take the reins, subtly altering my priorities and mental well-being. Fasting from social media wasn’t just about logging off; it was about recharging my batteries, rediscovering hobbies, and strengthening connections outside the screen.

    Read More Digital Detox: Everything You Need for a Social Media FastContinue

  • Redefining Success and Becoming a Serial Winner
    Encouragement | Mindset | Personal Development

    Redefining Success and Becoming a Serial Winner

    Unlock the journey of redefining success, personal goals, and unique paths to becoming a serial winner. Life’s not a competition!

    Read More Redefining Success and Becoming a Serial WinnerContinue

  • Image for blog post to rediscover your inspiration that is of a black woman sitting on a couch writing in her journal
    Encouragement | Mindset | Personal Development

    7 Proven Methods to Rediscover Your Inspiration

    Ever felt stuck in a rut where inspiration seems to vanish? You’re not alone. But guess what? Rediscovering your inspiration is not only possible but essential. Embrace these proven methods to reignite your fire, from affirmations to eliminating distractions and creating vision boards. Plus, discover the power of prayer in seeking guidance and solace during moments of uncertainty. Your journey to renewed inspiration starts here. Don’t miss out on a free goal planning worksheet designed to set you on the path to success across every area of your life. Let’s turn those aspirations into tangible achievements together!

    Read More 7 Proven Methods to Rediscover Your InspirationContinue

  • square image of a work from home mom sitting at her laptop and kids in the background playing around. SHe is point her finger at them to calm them down.
    Entrepreneurship | Mom Life | Uncategorized

    Practical Tips for Work from Home Moms

    Practical tips for work from home moms, to help navigate the unique challenges of balancing work responsibilities with caring for children.

    Read More Practical Tips for Work from Home MomsContinue

  • bible pages shaped into a heard
    Encouragement | Faith | Personal Development

    20 Powerful Bible Verses to Read For Encouragement

    These Encouraging Bible verses will get you through tough times and help you remain encouraged during whatever you are experiencing. If you are currently experiencing stress, read this to find the perfect words of encouragement from God.

    Read More 20 Powerful Bible Verses to Read For EncouragementContinue

  • image that says fail but do not quit for blog post entitled what to do when you feel like a failure
    Encouragement | Faith | Mindset | Personal Development

    What to do When You Feel Like a Failure

    My father used to always say, “If it isn’t good, then it is just not over yet”! How amazing to know that good is always on the other side of the construction! Hang in there. Keep working towards whatever it is that you were thinking about as you read this. The good is on the way!

    Read More What to do When You Feel Like a FailureContinue

  • cover photo that says you are worthy of love for blog post titled 10 powerful ways to love yourself
    Encouragement | Mindset | Personal Development

    10 Powerful Ways to Love Yourself Better Everyday

    Loving yourself is just as important and beautiful as loving another person. Ironically, we sometimes do a better job at loving others than we do ourselves. Quiet as it’s kept, loving yourself is really the prerequisite to loving others well.

    Read More 10 Powerful Ways to Love Yourself Better EverydayContinue

  • Image that says "One small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day" on a blog for powerful daily affirmations. Above a list of affirmations.
    Encouragement | Mindset | Personal Development

    31 Powerful Daily Affirmations for Women

    Positive daily affirmations for women | I am valuable and necessary. I deserve to have joy in my life. I let go of anything that distracts me from y purpose…

    Read More 31 Powerful Daily Affirmations for WomenContinue

  • cover image for a blog post tielted the best advice for moms returning to work, including how to write a winning resume after being a stay at home mom.
    Encouragement | Family | Mom Life | Personal Development

    Moms Returning to Work: Useful Tips You Need

    The best tips for moms returning to work after being a stay-at-home mom. Including, how to avoid burnout as a working mom and how to write a good resume.

    Read More Moms Returning to Work: Useful Tips You NeedContinue

  • Square image Stephani Shepherd, Founder of Great Life is a Must on a flyer advertising a Business Clarity Workshop to help you gain visibility. You can schedule a 1-on-1 or group session by contacting her at admin@greatlifeisamust.com. Learn more at https://greatlifeisamust.com/product/business-clarity-workshop/
    Blogger Tips | Encouragement | Entrepreneurship | Mindset

    How to Gain Visibility for Your New Business or Blog

    Want to gain visibility for your new business, but fear got you stuck? You never know who may need what you have to offer. You never know who may be encouraged by what you share. Every one of us has something to offer the world (ever heard of Purpose?!) and it is up to us to live up to that purpose. I can tell you now, being silent and shrinking back is not the answer.

    Read More How to Gain Visibility for Your New Business or BlogContinue

  • Signs it is time to make a life change
    Encouragement | Mindset | Personal Development

    Foolproof Signs It’s Time to Make a Life Change

    13 signs it is time to make a life change and how to assess your situation. Explore how you can be proactive about change.

    Read More Foolproof Signs It’s Time to Make a Life ChangeContinue

  • how to confidently say no without feeling guilty
    Encouragement | Entrepreneurship | Personal Development | Relationships

    How to Confidently Say No Without Feeling Guilty

    So exactly how do you say no, and not hurt their feelings? This is a two-part answer. One part is out of your control. The other person is responsible for managing their emotions and choosing to be understanding when you say no.

    Read More How to Confidently Say No Without Feeling GuiltyContinue

  • 10 Big ways to empower your daughter and prevent her from becoming a sex trafficking victim
    Mom Life | Personal Development

    Empower Your Daughter in these 10 Big Ways

    Intentionally empower your daughter. Help her avoid becoming a sex traffic victim. Lessons I learned from the victims of R Kelly & Jeffrey Epstein after watching the Netflix specials.

    Read More Empower Your Daughter in these 10 Big WaysContinue

  • the best secrets to working multiple jobs or businesses
    Encouragement | Entrepreneurship

    The Best Secrets to Working Multiple Jobs

    If you have ever considered working while running a business or you want to start multiple businesses, read this! The best secrets to working multiple jobs running multiple businesses.

    Read More The Best Secrets to Working Multiple JobsContinue

  • how to trust god in difficult times square share image for Great Life is a must Blog
    Encouragement | Faith | Personal Development

    How to Trust God in Difficult Times

    Want to know how to trust God in difficult times? If you struggle with this, read this and also get 15 scriptures on trusting God.

    Read More How to Trust God in Difficult TimesContinue

  • How to Prevent Burnout and Exhaustion from Work written by Stephani Shepherd of Great Life is a Must
    Encouragement | Entrepreneurship | Faith | Mom Life | Personal Development

    How to Prevent Burnout and Exhaustion from Work

    Take a break, girl! Stop overworking yourself and feeling guilty for taking a break. Get 10 tips for how to make sure you aren’t overdoing it. How to Prevent Burnout and Exhaustion from Work.

    Read More How to Prevent Burnout and Exhaustion from WorkContinue

  • Cover image that says: Being Your Authentic Self: The Currency of Authenticity
    Encouragement | Personal Development

    Being Your Authentic Self: The Currency of Authenticity

    Do you struggle with being your authentic self? Get 6 these tips for how to show up and leverage the currency of authenticity.

    Read More Being Your Authentic Self: The Currency of AuthenticityContinue

  • image cover for a blog post written by Stephani Shepherd that says Top 20 Inspiring Quotes of 2022 for Women who Feel Stuck
    Encouragement | Mindset | Mom Life | Personal Development

    Top 20 Powerful and Inspiring Quotes for Women Feeling Stuck

    Read this if you are feeling stuck and need encouragement in your life. These 20 inspiring quotes for women will move you to taking action in your life!

    Read More Top 20 Powerful and Inspiring Quotes for Women Feeling StuckContinue

  • image of stephani shepherd from Great Life is a Must writing in a journal on the couch with words over it that say 3 important things to write in your journal.
    Faith | Journaling | Mindset | Personal Development

    3 Really Important Things to Write in Your Journal

    Sitting down on January 1st and just throwing some random goals onto paper, just to say you did it, is not the way to go. You should really give thought to your goal planning and set the foundation first. Writing these 3 things in your journal helps to set the foundation.

    Read More 3 Really Important Things to Write in Your JournalContinue

  • Feeling stuck? Read this to improve your outlook on your personal growth.
    Encouragement | Entrepreneurship | Faith | Mindset | Personal Development

    Feeling Stuck? How to drastically improve your personal growth.

    Feeling stuck is a normal feeling when you’re trying to achieve your goals. This life-changing perspective will improve your Personal growth outlook.

    Read More Feeling Stuck? How to drastically improve your personal growth.Continue

  • the best morning routine for busy women
    Encouragement | Entrepreneurship | Mindset | Personal Development | Womanhood

    The Best Morning Routine for Busy Women

    This morning routine is for busy women who want to start their morning off right and even combay anxiety. Click to learn more.

    Read More The Best Morning Routine for Busy WomenContinue

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Image of Stephani Shepeherd standing in front of her laptop. She is the Founder of Great Life is a Must and has a blog that is the Ultimate source of life lessons and encouragement for women and moms who want more

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Recent Posts

  • how to attend networking events alone. imge of two ladies sitting down talking.
    Entrepreneurship · networking · Personal Development

    How to Attend Networking Events Alone: For Beginners

  • image that says I cant can and the word cant is crossed out.
    Encouragement · Mindset · Personal Development

    10 Toxic and Negative Thoughts You Need to Release

  • How to practice self love and stop being a people pleasing
    Encouragement · Mindset · Personal Development · Womanhood

    How to Stop Being a People Pleaser and Practice Self Love

greatlifeisamust

Motherhood. Encouragement. Business. Real life.
Creator of @momentarilygone
Speaker | Army Wife | Entrepreneur
📍 DC / DMV

This one by @glographics stopped me in my tracks. This one by @glographics stopped me in my tracks.
"What a privilege to be embarrassed by your earlier work because you were brave enough to start." 

I feel that in my bones.

I can look back at a lot and cringe a little. I didn't know what I didn't know.

But here's what I know now: that cringe is not shame. It's evidence.

Evidence that I started before I felt ready. Evidence that I let people see the early version. Evidence that I cared more about beginning than about looking perfect.

Every better version of my work exists because a braver, messier first version came first. The woman who posted the imperfect thing made room for the woman who's growing now.

So if you're sitting on the idea, the business, the page, the book, the offer; waiting until you can do it perfectly before you start... this is your permission to start imperfectly.

Start ugly. Start scared. Start anyway.

Your earlier work isn't your embarrassment. It's your foundation.

Tell me in the comments: what's something you started before you felt ready? Let's celebrate your growth!

#StartScared #Mompreneur #BraveEnough ToStart #SelfCareForMoms Milspouse MomBoss FaithAndBusiness DoltScared PermissionGranted less
Yesterday was day 2 of the @amseagency More Than a Yesterday was day 2 of the @amseagency
More Than a Milspouse Summit.

And if you've ever heard the "dependa" stereotype this Summit diapells that myth to the fullest. These amazing milspousea are out here building it BOLD and creating a legacy of greatness. I'm always so inspired to be in the room with other creatives and learn from their expertise. I'm forever grateful for AMSE and the opportunity to connect with so many legendary spouses!

@monijefferson @laurasearly @milsposocialco @leannalily @thehauoli @the_real_marahlago @_iamkeisha_ @esramills @mirandaroldantv @officialbasebuddies @courtmeinders @drb_psyd @paulettefryar @veemac30
I want community... but do you show up? I want ne I want community... but do you show up?

I want new clients... but do you show up?

I want to make new friends... but do you show up?

I want to sharpen my skills... but do you show up?

I want people to support me more...but do you show up?

Showing up is half the battle. Attend the event. Take the course. Accept the invite. Support others. Be a participant. Be a contributor. You get the point. Show up.

So I'm on my way to show up - for myself, my community, and my business - at the More Than Milspouse Summit @amseagency . I'm excited to see my people, learn from all the amazing spouses taking the stage, and make some great connections and unforgettable memories.

Will I see you there?!

#Milspouse #MilitarySpouse #Mompreneur #FaithAndBusiness #ShowUp
How much does Stephani love donuts?! #storytime How much does Stephani love donuts?!
#storytime
This morning worry hit me hard for like 7 seconds. This morning worry hit me hard for like 7 seconds. Then I looked to my left, from my hotel bed, and saw this. I immediately stood up and began to thank God, because if He created this sunrise, SURELY He can handle ANY PROBLEM that has ever come my way. 

When man says, "it's going to be an uphill battle", God says, "Relax. I've got this. "

This sunrise was the greatest reminder I could have ever received in that moment. 

I pray you are encouraged in whatever you're going through.💛💛
Because every business owner knows it takes a litt Because every business owner knows it takes a little delusion, lots of action, and a ton of faith to make it happen!🤪🤪🛐

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Business owner humor 
Mompreneurs 
Entrepreneurs 
#businessmindset 
#delusion 
#dreambig
I'm excited to be sharing the stage at More Than a I'm excited to be sharing the stage at More Than a MilSpouse Summit: Build It Bold! 🎤

I'll be sharing my thoughts on the Radical Honesty panel with my friend, Paulette Fryar!

On October 9–10, military spouse entrepreneurs are gathering in Dallas for real strategy, real community, and the kind of momentum you can't get from scrolling.

If you've been building your business through PCS moves, deployments, and everything in between, this room was built for you.

🎟️ Tickets close Thursday, October 1
 So get yours, especially if you live in or near the Dallas area!! Come find me. I'd love to see you in person.
 amseagency.com/milspousesummit

📍 Dallas College, Bill J. Priest Center | Dallas, TX

@amseagency #BuildItBold #AMSESummit2026 #MoreThanAMilSpouse #MilSpouseEntrepreneur
I take so many videos because I never want to forg I take so many videos because I never want to forget all these moments ♥️. 

Being their mom is the best!
Last week we celebrated 13 years! These two Cincy Last week we celebrated 13 years! These two Cincy Bearcats found each other 6yrs after graduating and have been together ever since. Only God could have arranged it so perfectly. 

We found each other at the perfect time where both of us were ready for something new and right. I'm forever grateful God brought us together.

To celebrate, we checked in to the @fairmontwashington for a few days of an unconventional getaway. 

He still got up and went to work each day, but we still got some kid-free time together to just be us.♥️♥️

The team at the Fairmont treated us well and made our time together even more special. A huge thank you to them!
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#loveandmarriage 
#blacklove 
#marriedcouple 
#marriage 
#couples
The $75/month hair vitamin dupe you actually need The $75/month hair vitamin dupe you actually need to know about. 🤫👇

I used to swear by a super popular, expensive hair supplement. But when I compared the ingredients to these Equate Women's Hair Growth Supplements from @walmart , I was shocked by how similar they are. One month in, and I’m already seeing positive results. My hair is getting exactly what it needs, and I’m saving so much money every month.

These vitamins make it in on all my trips!

Save your budget and grab yours at Walmart! 🛒✨

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#UGC #HairCareRoutine #alopecia #WalmartFinds #EquateBeauty
Just Google her!! I'll never use my kids as an ex Just Google her!!

I'll never use my kids as an excuse to not go after what I want. I do it all for them...To inspire them. To show them what's possible. To show them how dreams come true. To show them how living in your purpose, on purpose is important. 

They are my motivators, not my dream blockers.
And this is why work travel is still rejuvenating And this is why work travel is still rejuvenating to me....

I am always going to be intentional about filling the down time with what I need. 

Being by the water does something to my soul. I don’t even need to be in it, just the sight of water calms me and transports me to such a place of peace. 

There's no denying that there's a God who created all of this! 🙌🏾

Now,  let me go hop in the shower so I'm not too late to this breakfast 🤣
It's no secret, the prep work to being MOMentarily It's no secret, the prep work to being MOMentarily Gone isn't always easy. This months trip happens to fall over a busy week for the fam. Kids' sports start back up, hubby is on a different work schedule and kids are no longer at the same schools. So, of course, I'm not going to leave them high and dry!

Despite my love of getting away, my family is still my first priority.  So I got them all set with hair done and dinner while I'm away. 🗣and they better eat it!

If you're traveling soon, without your family here are a few things to consider before you just overdo it with prepping. 

1. Talk to your hubby about the schedule for the week.
2. Discuss what's for dinner. 
3. Is there anything your husband doesn't normally do that would be a huge inconvenience, in several, ways if he had to do it while you're gone? 

If the schedule is normal or light and you know they can all figure it out...pack you bags and go. 

If the schedule is going to be crazy, consider what you can easily prep, without too much extra stress on you. 

If eating out is in the budget and practical, let them eat out. If having a meal ready as soon as they get home would be more practical, then prep an easy meal. I did a crockpot meal and cooked a flank steak for easy tacos later this week. 

My husband doesn't braid and I knew I couldn't get my daughter an appt before Tuesday, so I did an easy and quick style so her hair wouldn't be a disaster when I got back. 

Yes, it was extra work on my plate, but I had to weigh the options and for this trip it made sense for me to take some of that work of my hubbys plate. 

I call that harmony. It works best when you are intentional about your plans to be MOMentarily Gone, especially if you want to keep it up LOL. 

Do you prep all the things (outfits, meals, pre-cleaning, kids grooming,  etc) before each time you leave? I'm interested in hearing how you manage it!
She would be so proud of me💛💛 I'm celebrating 42 y She would be so proud of me💛💛
I'm celebrating 42 years of life today and reflecting on how much I've grown since this pic. I truly feel like I have come alive! 

God has blessed me to have experienced and accomplished so much goodness in this life. I just want to keep being a light in this dark world and living life to the fullest!
Saying goodbye to an Amazing August and welcoming Saying goodbye to an Amazing August and welcoming September with open arms. It's my bday Month!!!

I pray September is your best month yet! I am already excited about what's to come!
Taking care of yourself means actually implementin Taking care of yourself means actually implementing the things you learn!

On a recent hike, I learned about the benefits of White Pine needle tea. This past weekend, while at a local farm, I saw a tree and counted the needles (it should be bunches of 5) and I got super excited. I started stuffing my purse with pine needles 🤣🙈. 

Today, I made my first cup of tea with it! White Pine needles are very high in Vitamin C. They act as an antiseptic. They also are known for being a mood stabilizer. Read up on all the benefits and how to properly identify, harvest, and steep the needles. I'll post the link in my stories. 

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Home remedies 
Natural medicine
Self care
Whether you've heard it many times or not enough, Whether you've heard it many times or not enough, it's still true: everything is going to work out just fine. 

Roman's 8:28

That's it. That's the post. 
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Encouraging words.
Word of the day. 
Positive reels. 
Motivating reels. 
Good news.
By the grace of God, I survived another summer wor By the grace of God, I survived another summer working from home with kids! ..barely 🤣🤣🤣

We love the kids, but working from home with kids is a BEAST! Thank God for Freedom day!!🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾

I'm praying all the kids going back to school have a safe and successful school year!

Full video on YT. See stories for the 🔗
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Mom reels
Moms over 30
Moms over 40
Funny reels
Working moms
First day of school
If you missed the 2026 MOMentarily Gone events, d If you missed the 2026 MOMentarily Gone events,  don't mess around and let it happen again!

You know you need a break. You know you really don't want to do the work to plan your own getaway. You know you're long overdue for leaving them kids at home and going to do something without them 

That's why MOMentarily Gone exists.  Join us for the 2027 Winter and Summer events. Planning is underway and I'm if your name isn't on the list, what are you waiting for?!

The ladies on the list get all the Details and  first dibe on registration. 

L'nk in Bio
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trips for moms
Moms who travel
Mom groups near me
Moms in the DMV
Moms in Northern Virginia 
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