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

Hi Sharon, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Working a 9-5 while setting myself up to become an entrepreneur as a creative has really changed my outlook on a lot of things. I always thought it was easier to run your own business, but that’s the farthest thing from the truth. It takes a certain mindset and willpower to wake up every day and take intentional steps to push yourself towards a goal that only your imagination has seen before. Adding a 9-5 to the equation feels like jumping off the deep end because if you don’t have structure, you won’t be able to sustain yourself.

Over time, I’ve had to tweak my time management and level of discipline A LOT. Scheduling out my days/weeks has not only kept me consistent, but it also allows me to have a social life and a better sleep schedule. I think of balance now as more of an asset rather than a chore. I’m reminded of Hebrews 12:11, and it encourages me to be intentional about creating healthy habits that build a firm foundation for the things to come.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
You get one shot at life… one chance to decide whether you’re going to sink or swim, and I’ve decided to give it all I’ve got. I’m a content creator, and the experience so far has had its fair share of ups and downs. What keeps me going is the passion I have to create. I started posting my content simply to share my love of creativity with the world and to encourage people that they can do whatever they set out to do. I’ve learned that sometimes you just have to do it scared. To look back and see the opportunities that have unfolded as a result of a willingness to step out of comfort and do what seemed scary at the time is very humbling.

The community I’ve gained over the last few years across my platforms is probably what I cherish most. So many strangers have turned into like a virtual family, supporting from near and far, and it’s a blessing I don’t take for granted.

I started off on my platforms teaching others how to do things… whether it be hair, makeup, or whatever, and now strangely enough, the platform is teaching me. I’ve learned that fast growth feeds the ego while killing the soul, and if you’re not careful, the feeling of needing validation from numbers can become addictive, comparison can become like second nature, and the mental spiral begins. Securing a foundation in Christ has become pivotal in order to stay grounded, in order to create without second guessing, in order to be at peace no matter what is going on around me.

If anyone could take anything from my story, I’d want them to know that God makes the impossible possible. I went from being bullied in high school about my physical features to becoming a content creator and influencer, with one of my main niches being beauty. I could’ve never guessed that in my wildest dreams. Your validation comes from God and Him alone.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
A stay in Freeport would have to include a visit to the heart of the city, which is Port Lucaya. Port Lucaya offers a variety of food options, as well as bars and places to satisfy your sweet tooth. West End is definitely a vibe on Sundays after church because not only is the drive itself therapeutic and relaxing, but the food is always on point. Bones is also nice for outdoor/lounge vibes, and the customer service is always good.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Being able to give people their flowers while you can is a beautiful thing. Darea Rolle, better known as Darea Danielle on her platforms, has played a pivotal part in my story, and I’m forever grateful for not only her willingness to share nuggets of wisdom within the field but also her friendship. She’s like a sister to me, and I’m forever in her corner.

To my best friend who wouldn’t let me give up no matter what, thank you for seeing what I couldn’t at the time. Thank you for always believing in me and investing in my craft. Shaneia for life.

To my community in the Bahamas — THANK YOU! The amount of support, interactions, and love I receive from y’all is unmatched, and I don’t take it lightly. Thank you so much for helping me to get where I am today.

And to the author of it all, Praise be to God, for setting things up in such a way that I could never put into words. I’m nothing without God’s provision and guidance.

Instagram: @theshaeslay

Twitter: @theshaeslay

Youtube: @theshaeslay

Other: TikTok @theshaeslay

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.