In the interview, she spoke about the need to constantly be up and running and the pervasive idea that if we got some downtime, somehow that would have a negative impact on our hustle. She further added that this method of thinking had put a dent on her mental health and she’s determined to change that now.

That whole, ‘While you sleep I was grinding’ foolishness? No, please rest. This past week, I literally had to take stuff off my calendar. I had too much going on, and was starting to feel pulled. Sorry, call me flakey if you want to, but my mental health is way more important.

Shedding more light on mental health, she added that insecurities tend to flood their way in when we’ve reached adulthood because we become suddenly aware of all the negativity that has been thrown our way right from childhood. Realising this, inspired her single, ‘Believe in me’ in which she sings:

“Maybe I’m guilty
Of loosing my focus
Was too busy chasin’ what they wanted me to be
Livin’ through their eyes
Drained by the spotlight”

For some reason, when you become an adult, you discover insecurity. Someone may talk bad about you or bully you in your childhood, and before you know, you’ve adopted those things and you stop believing in yourself. I said, let me start believing in me again. I needed to get back to that place before opinions and doubts and fears got in my way.

The 37-year-old Grammy winner is also an avid supporter of businesses run by other African-American women. “Women, we know how to tear each other down, you know what I mean, and it’s amazing that there are so many great, empowering companies out there.”

Michelle continues to spread light and positivity as she embarks on her journey forward as an entrepreneur which she believes is her new purpose. When asked if we can expect to hear new music from her, the ‘Say Yes’ singer replied:

Music is in my future. I would love to release some new music this year, but not because I just have to be an artist. I’m excited to settle down, get married, motherhood, doing stuff I always want to do. Whether I just want to paddle board, and then go to an arena next month and sing a song, I want to make sure life is balanced. I’ve had a great run musically, but I believe I’m purposed to do some other things on this earth, too.

We love her positive spirit.

Photo Credit: Derek Blanks