http://www.markeywpierre.com/blog/rss/feedsMarkey W. Pierré, DBA Vice Chancellor of External Affairs and Chief of Staff, LSU Health Sciences Center Dr. Markey Pierré’s lifetime commitment to professional excellence, community service, and good public policy has led to substantive progress for the State of Louisiana in many areas, including K-12 and higher education, construction, health carTue, 05 May 2026 05:21:07 -0700http://www.markeywpierre.com/blog/post/the-pivot-point-to-your-whats-nexthttp://www.markeywpierre.com/blog/post/the-pivot-point-to-your-whats-nextSeptember is a month viewed as a turning point. The air begins to cool, and the leaves on the tree start to change into a beautiful array of colors, signaling not only the shift of seasons but also the transitions within our own lives. Just as nature prepares for a new chapter, we too can embrace change in our personal and professional journeys. This is a chance to reassess our direction and pursue new opportunities. A chance to let go of outdated routines and get out of your rut. It’s the opportunity to look through a different lens and try new approaches at work, whether by starting a fresh project or redefining your priorities. It’s also an opportunity to set healthier boundaries and look outside your comfort zone, preparing yourself for the WHAT’S NEXT with intention and clarity. Embrace the Shift Uneasiness and discomfort often arise because we grow too familiar with our settings and surroundings. But to discover our WHAT’S NEXT, we must be willing to embrace the shift. It’s in the pivot that we uncover true alignment with both our purpose and our passion. Balance Over Busyness True strength lies not in the relentless pursuit of busyness, but in the mindful act of defining and honoring your priorities. It is within this space of clarity that we are able to negotiate what truly deserves our attention, our boundaries, our time, and our energy. Negotiation, in this light, is not about confrontation or conflict; rather, it is an act of alignment. This process is truly necessary exercise if we are to discover our WHAT’S NEXT. This process allows one to stand firm in who you really are without diminishing your presence or your purpose. Rooted in Gratitude Gratitude is a gentle anchor, holding us steady amid the shifting tides of change. It softens the edges of negotiation—a conversation with a colleague over workload, or a personal decision to reset boundaries—and transforms a daunting pivot into a moment of grace. September whispers: You are not off course, you are aligning. In every pivot, whether it’s choosing to pursue a new project at work or redefining priorities at home, gratitude grounds you, offering clarity and calm. Each pause, each turn, becomes an act of reclaiming your power and your peace, gently guided by gratitude’s quiet strength and helping you determine your WHAT’S NEXT.Mon, 29 Sep 2025 11:45:00 -0700http://www.markeywpierre.com/blog/post/rooms-relationships-and-revenuehttp://www.markeywpierre.com/blog/post/rooms-relationships-and-revenueThe Power of Connection in Career and Wealth Building August is my birthday month and with each passing year, I am more intentional about how I show up, who I connect with, and what I’m building. For me, birthdays are more than a celebration, they are reflection points. And this year, I’ve been especially focused on one truth: Elevation is NOT a solo ACT No matter how talented, driven, or accomplished you are, you will reach a point where your next level is tied to your network. The rooms you walk into, the relationships you invest in and nurture, and the revenue you grow and generate are all deeply intertwined. Your connections aren’t just helpful — they’re essential. Let’s break it down Rooms Every space isn’t meant for you — and that’s okay. Focus on being in rooms where your value is recognized, your presence is respected, and your purpose is aligned. Sometimes, the greatest move you can make is leaving the room you’ve outgrown. Relationships We rise with the right people. The ones who speak your name in rooms you haven't stepped into yet. The ones who pour into you, hold you accountable, and remind you of your worth. Relationships are not just emotional — they are strategic assets. This month, I’m strengthening connections that elevate my vision and pruning those that pull me backwards. Revenue Let’s normalize having honest conversations about wealth — not just in money, but in mindset, opportunity, and legacy. When your relationships and rooms align with your purpose, revenue becomes a byproduct of clarity, confidence, and connection. You deserve to be compensated, celebrated, and centered…all at the same time. So, as I celebrate another year of life, I’m moving with this mantra: Be bold about where you belong. Be wise about who you build with. Be open to the revenue that right relationships bring. From my heart to yours -- this August, be intentional. Your next breakthrough may not be a new plan; it may be a new person. Or a new room. Or a new conversation. Walk into it like it’s already yours.Thu, 04 Sep 2025 14:51:00 -0700http://www.markeywpierre.com/blog/post/unbothered--unapologetic-living-aligned-not-overwhelmedhttp://www.markeywpierre.com/blog/post/unbothered--unapologetic-living-aligned-not-overwhelmedJuly is blazing, full of heat, fireworks, and nonstop noise. As professional women, we are movers and shakers and always pushing to make things happen. However, this month, I invite you to move differently. We’re always grinding, always chasing, always doing. But what if this July, we paused? What if we chose stillness over striving and alignment over exhaustion? Do you know that you don’t always have to hustle to prove your worth? You don’t have to stretch yourself thin to make an impact. And you definitely don’t have to explain or apologize why you’re protecting your peace. Let this be the month you move intentionally, speak softly but with authority, and embrace the beautiful rhythm of your own pace. Say No Without Explaining You don’t owe anyone access to your energy. Every “YES” you give to someone else is a “NO” you may be taking away from yourself. And Sis, you deserve your own time, love, and attention, too. Remember, NO, is a complete sentence. Power in the Pause You are not a machine. You don’t have to “push through” every moment. Living aligned means honoring when to act and when to rest. Grace is just as powerful as grind. Replace one task on your to-do list this week with something that restores you—like a take a walk, a nap, or time spent doing absolutely nothing. Protect Your Peace Like It’s Priceless Because it is. Peace is not passive; it’s a choice, it’s a boundary, and it’s sometimes even a battle. But it’s one worth fighting for. Protect your joy, your quiet, your right to not always be available. Stand Tall in Your Truth Living unapologetically doesn’t mean being loud, it means being clear. Clear about your values. Clear about your purpose. Clear about what you’re no longer entertaining. Let your life speak before you even open your mouth. Affirmation for this month: “I am not overwhelmed. I am aligned. I do not shrink. I stand grounded in truth and grace.” Let July be intentional: Unbothered. Unapologetic. And Undeniably Powerful!Tue, 29 Jul 2025 12:51:00 -0700http://www.markeywpierre.com/blog/post/midyear-magic-reflect-refresh-and-risehttp://www.markeywpierre.com/blog/post/midyear-magic-reflect-refresh-and-rise Here we are…already at the halfway point of 2025, and this is a perfect time for us to pause, reflect on the journey so far, and renew our spirits for the months ahead. It’s the perfect time to check in with yourself and celebrate the progress, lessons, and growth you’ve experienced. Pause and Reflect Take a moment to look back on the first half of the year. What victories, big or small, can you celebrate? What challenges taught you something valuable? Reflection isn’t about judgment — it’s about understanding where you’ve been so you can move forward with intention. Suggestion: Set aside 10 minutes this week to journal about your journey so far. What stands out? What would you like to carry forward? Renew Your Energy I don’t know about you but halfway through the year, I have found that it’s natural to feel a little worn or off-course. I’d like to encourage you to use this month to refresh your mindset and renew your energy. Whether that means reconnecting with your passions, creating new routines, or simply slowing down, prioritize what helps you feel balanced and strong. Suggestion: Take the time to identify one simple change you can make this month to boost your well-being, maybe a walk outside, a tech-free evening, or trying a new hobby. Refocus Your Intentions Your goals may have shifted, and that’s okay. Renew your commitment to what truly matters to you now. Let go of what no longer serves you and make space for what aligns with your heart and purpose. Suggestion: Write down one intention for the rest of 2025. What energy or mindset do you want to embody moving forward? Embrace Gratitude Gratitude grounds us and opens the door to joy, even in the midst of challenges. Make it a habit this month to notice and appreciate the good, both big and small. Suggestion: Make a list of the people, experiences, and lessons that have enriched your life so far this year. Gratitude has a way of turning what we have into enough, and it’s a beautiful practice that can bring joy to each day. Write down one thing you’re grateful for, and consider sharing that gratitude with someone who has impacted your life. June is your invitation to reflect deeply, renew your spirit, and rise with fresh clarity. As always, I am grateful for this space to connect with you each month. Thank you for joining me on this journey of growth, inspiration, and empowerment and keep honoring your journey—YOU are exactly where you need to be. Fri, 27 Jun 2025 14:22:00 -0700http://www.markeywpierre.com/blog/post/may-you-bloom-freely-fearlessly-and-fullyhttp://www.markeywpierre.com/blog/post/may-you-bloom-freely-fearlessly-and-fullyCan you believe it's May already? 2025 is moving so quickly, but this month gives me a vibe—spotlight on theme music cued, full main character energy. The azaleas are in bloom, the sun's hanging around a little longer, and everything feels alive again. So, here's your gentle reminder, Sis: You're allowed to bloom, too. This is your season to grow boldly, beautifully, and unapologetically. The beauty of personal growth lies in being your authentic self—not rushed, not distracted, just real and rooted growth on your terms. Let's talk about how to use this month to nurture your purpose and water your garden. Tend to Your Soil Growth cannot occur on depleted ground. Self-care is essential, and I will always remind you to ask yourself: What do I need right now to feel nourished? Maybe it's rest—not laziness, but sacred restoration. Maybe it's community—a sister-circle of women who see you and speak life into you. Maybe it's solitude—to hear your own thoughts without the noise of everyone else's opinions. Suggestion: Block off one "Soul-Care" day this month. No obligations. Just you and whatever brings you joy and clarity. Stop Apologizing for Wanting More It is time to normalize ambition. It's okay to want more for yourself, so let's stop shrinking our dreams to make other people feel comfortable. Your desire for more—more purpose, more freedom, more joy—isn't selfish. It's sacred. OWN IT….. Suggestion: Write down one "scary big" goal. Then, break it into three manageable steps you can start this month. Momentum is magic. Be Gentle with the Growing Some days, you’ll bloom. Some days, you’ll barely bud. And that's okay. Growth is NOT a straight line or a sprint. So, when progress feels slow, don't quit. Be kind to the woman who's doing her best. Give yourself grace; remember, you're not alone in this journey. Suggestion: At the end of each week in May, write down three things you did RIGHT and then celebrate them. That's how confidence grows—Acknowledge YOUR wins and let them be a testament to your progress. Bloom Loud, Bloom Proud Your light was never meant to be hidden. This is your reminder to show up boldly, share your voice, and walk in rooms like you belong—because you do. Suggestion: Practice this mantra all month: "I am worthy of growth, joy, and everything I dream of. I will not play small." Final Thoughts You don't need to wait until the stars align or someone hands you permission. May is your green light. Take the Step. Speak the dream. Plant the seed. Water your vision and Step into your season of becoming unbothered and unstoppable. And while you're at it, don't forget you're already enough. The bloom is just a bonus. Let this be your season. With love and light,Mon, 02 Jun 2025 10:31:00 -0700http://www.markeywpierre.com/blog/post/april-is-your-comeback-season-sis-its-time-to-reset-and-risehttp://www.markeywpierre.com/blog/post/april-is-your-comeback-season-sis-its-time-to-reset-and-riseAlright, let’s have some real talk. January came in with all the fireworks, the vision boards, and the “New Year, New Me” energy. But now? Life has been life-ing, and some of those goals might be looking real neglected. But let me tell you something—you are not behind, and you are definitely not out of the game. April is your second chance, your halftime pep talk, your sign to get back in the driver’s seat and own the rest of this year like the powerhouse you are. So, dust off those dreams, shake off the doubt, and let’s get back to it. Because, sis, your comeback season starts NOW! Let’s go! The Power of a Fresh Perspective Listen, just because you haven’t crossed off every goal doesn’t mean the game is over. We’re only three months in! There is so much time left to shift gears, take action, and show up for yourself in a way that makes December-you proud. Instead of stressing over what hasn’t happened, let’s focus on what can still happen. The next nine months are yours for the taking. Ask yourself: What small, consistent actions can I take today to move forward? What outdated mindsets do I need to drop like bad Wi-Fi? What would happen if I chose to be bold, relentless, and fearless for the rest of 2025? Spoiler alert: Magic would happen. Your magic Spring Clean Your Mindset Just like you’re decluttering that closet (or at least thinking about it), it’s time to do the same for your mindset. Let’s toss out some bad habits and dusty old doubts that are no longer serving you. Throw away perfectionism. Waiting for the “right time” is just an excuse in disguise. Start now. Adjust as you go. Unsubscribe from comparison. Somebody else’s timeline has nothing to do with yours. Stay in your lane and slay your own goals. Let go of guilt. If a goal no longer excites you, release it. Pivoting is not quitting—it’s growth Small Steps, Big Wins Success isn’t always about making giant leaps. Sometimes, it’s about those tiny, daily steps that build momentum. Pick one area of your life to focus on for the next 30 days. Maybe it’s your health, your finances, your business, or just reclaiming your peace. Small shifts create big results. Celebrate every win. Sis, did you send the email? Make the call? Say “no” when you usually say “yes” out of guilt? That’s progress. Own it. Surround yourself with women who hype you up. Energy is contagious. Choose wisely. April’s Challenge: Say YES to Yourself This month, I’m challenging you to say YES—yes to your dreams, yes to your well-being, yes to opportunities that scare you just enough to remind you that you’re growing. Say YES to applying for that new position. Say YES to prioritizing your happiness without guilt. Say YES to believing in yourself, even when doubt tries to creep in. You are not behind. You are not too late. You are exactly where you need to be to make magic happen. This is your season to bloom, sis. Let’s go get it!Wed, 30 Apr 2025 15:25:00 -0700http://www.markeywpierre.com/blog/post/keep-pushing-2024-was-just-the-beginninghttp://www.markeywpierre.com/blog/post/keep-pushing-2024-was-just-the-beginningTake Stock, Not Shame Let’s start here: Celebrate what did happen this year. Maybe you didn’t land that major client, lose those 20 pounds, or finally write the book, but did you grow stronger, gain clarity, or become more determined? Did you move closer to the woman you want to be? Be proud of the steps—big and small—that you took. Goals don’t expire at the stroke of midnight on December 31st. That business you’re building, the relationships you’re nurturing, the version of yourself you’re becoming—they are all evolving in their time. If there’s anything you left undone, ask yourself this: Did I truly give it everything I had? If the answer is yes, be patient. If the answer is no, use that realization as fuel for the year ahead. Dream Bigger in 2025 Here’s a secret for professional women: Your goals don’t need to be perfectly measured and neat. Sometimes, the more audacious they are, the more exciting the journey will be. So as you map out 2025, dare to think bigger. What does “next level” mean for you? Is it: Pivoting in your career? Finally taking the leap to start that business? Setting boundaries and creating more space for joy? Whatever it is, write it down. Declare it. Create a plan, but remember to give yourself grace for the detours. Practical Steps for a Fresh Start 1. Reflect with purpose: Take an hour or two this month to list your top three wins and three lessons learned in 2024. Let these guide your intentions for 2025. 2. Double down on your “why”: Goals that excite you start with reasons that energize you. Remember why you started—and let that “why” light your path forward. 3. Invest in yourself: Attend that conference, hire that coach, or take the class you’ve been putting off. Growth requires effort and investment, and you are worth it. 4. Find accountability: Share your 2025 vision with someone you trust—someone who will both cheer for you and challenge you. The Woman You’re Becoming is Already Winning If no one has told you lately: You’re doing an incredible job. Professional women like you carry heavy loads—balancing careers, families, passions, and the constant push for more. But let’s get something straight: You aren’t “falling behind” if you have unfinished goals. The very act of having goals, pursuing them, and evolving is proof of your power. Unaccomplished goals don’t define you; they build you. 2025: It’s Time to Shine Imagine December 2025—you’re looking back at a year where you not only reached for the stars but actually touched them. You expanded your dreams, crushed your doubts, and proved to yourself that you are, indeed, unstoppable. That vision begins today. Keep the fire burning for your goals, dust off the dreams you pushed to the back burner, and make a decision to show up for yourself—fearlessly and fiercely—in the year ahead. You’ve got what it takes to make magic happen. Now go claim your 2025. Cheers to a year of becoming, achieving, and thriving.Mon, 31 Mar 2025 16:21:00 -0700http://www.markeywpierre.com/blog/post/dear-queens-embracing-the-turning-of-the-yearhttp://www.markeywpierre.com/blog/post/dear-queens-embracing-the-turning-of-the-yearAs the final days of the year slip quietly into history, many of us feel the pull to pause. It’s a time for reflecting on what was, honoring what still is, and dreaming of what could be. For professional women, this moment can be both tender and intense—an intersection of our ambitions, responsibilities, and personal hopes. The close of the year often brings a mix of emotions. Perhaps you’re celebrating hard-earned victories—a promotion, a new business milestone, or simply surviving days that stretched you to the brink. Maybe you’re mourning unmet goals or grappling with the tension of wanting more while feeling drained by the race. This is the moment to remind yourself: You are not your achievements, your setbacks, or your to-do list. Looking Back Without Judgement Let’s allow ourselves to glance in the rearview mirror without the weight of self-criticism. Reflect on the lessons learned, even in the moments that didn’t go as planned. Remember the courage it took to show up, even when you felt unsure. Think of the lives you impacted—colleagues, clients, friends, and family members—simply by being you. As professional women, we often demand perfection from ourselves. But perfection isn’t what defines growth. It’s the willingness to learn, adapt, and keep moving forward, no matter how imperfectly. Looking Ahead With Intention The beauty of a new year lies in its possibilities. It’s a blank slate, inviting us to craft not just resolutions, but intentions—deep, meaningful commitments to ourselves and the lives we want to create. What would happen if you prioritized your well-being as fiercely as you chase your career goals? How could life shift if you gave yourself permission to say no to what drains you and yes to what fuels your soul? What dreams would you pursue if fear weren’t standing in your way? Let this new year be about alignment. Aligning your work with your values. Aligning your goals with your deepest passions. Aligning your self-worth with the truth of who you are—not what you achieve. Giving Yourself Grace As you stand at this threshold, give yourself permission to feel all the things—the pride, the grief, the anticipation, and even the fear. Trust that every part of your journey has prepared you for what lies ahead. And if you need a reminder, here it is: You’ve already done the hard things. You can do this too. Here’s to a new year filled with courage, clarity, and unapologetic joy. Let’s walk into it with our heads high, our hearts open, and our belief in ourselves unshakable. With love and solidarity,Wed, 18 Dec 2024 10:56:00 -0700http://www.markeywpierre.com/blog/post/why-voting-matters--how-to-thrive-through-the-holiday-season-stressfreehttp://www.markeywpierre.com/blog/post/why-voting-matters--how-to-thrive-through-the-holiday-season-stressfreeHello, incredible professional women! We’re heading into one of the busiest seasons of the year, with holidays on the horizon and schedules that just keep getting longer. But there’s one more item that deserves a spot on our to-do lists: voting! This is a season to celebrate, reflect, and give back—and voting is one of the most powerful ways to make a difference. Here’s why your vote matters and a few tips to help you stay cool, calm, and collected as you juggle it all.1. Voting: A Gift to Your Community and FutureYour vote is more than just a choice—it’s a way to shape the world around you. Each vote is a voice supporting issues and policies that affect everything from workplace rights to healthcare, family, education, and beyond. Voting doesn’t just help make your opinions known; it can directly impact your career, community, and future.3 Reasons Your Vote Matters This Season:• Empower Women Everywhere: When we vote, we show up for one another and help push for positive change in issues that affect women.• Shape the Future: From economic policies to healthcare, your vote plays a role in shaping a world that better aligns with our values.• Set an Example for Future Leaders: Your vote shows young women and girls that their voices are valuable and essential to the democratic process.2. Keep Holiday Stress at Bay While Crushing Your GoalsWith holiday gatherings, end-of-year deadlines, and more, stress can creep in quickly. But keeping calm is totally possible—and can make the season so much more enjoyable! Here are some stress-busting strategies to help you glide through the season with grace.Set Clear PrioritiesDecide what’s non-negotiable and what you can let go. Prioritizing what’s most important will free up mental space and keep stress levels manageable. You don’t have to attend every holiday event, and it’s okay to say “no” to things that don’t bring you joy.Batch Your To-Do’s to Maximize TimeInstead of multitasking, focus on one thing at a time, or even better, batch similar tasks together. Whether it’s handling holiday shopping or work projects, doing things in batches can help you complete them faster and with less mental strain. You’ll end up with more free time to spend with loved ones or unwind with a cozy holiday movie!Recharge with Mini Self-Care BreaksGive yourself a little boost with small self-care moments. A quick meditation session, a walk outside, or a few minutes with a book can recharge your energy and help you stay calm, no matter how packed the day is. Self-care doesn’t need to be long to be effective!Celebrate Small WinsThe holiday season is a perfect time to reflect on how far you’ve come, both professionally and personally. Take a moment to recognize all the amazing things you’ve achieved this year. Celebrating small wins can keep you in an empowered, grateful mindset—fueling you through the busiest days.Find Joy in the Present MomentThe holiday season can pass by in a blur. Give yourself permission to slow down, even just for a few minutes a day, and soak in the moment. Whether it’s enjoying a festive treat or sharing a laugh with family, these small joys are what make the season truly special.3. Wrap Up the Season with PurposeThis holiday season, embrace your power by making your voice heard through voting, prioritizing self-care, and savoring the things that matter most. Voting gives you a say in shaping the future, and practicing stress-busting habits helps you make the most of each moment.Here’s to a season filled with purpose, peace, and joy. Let’s show up for ourselves, our communities, and each other—because we’re stronger together.Sun, 01 Dec 2024 23:56:00 -0700http://www.markeywpierre.com/blog/post/enduring-overcoming-and-winning-through-a-stormhttp://www.markeywpierre.com/blog/post/enduring-overcoming-and-winning-through-a-stormLife is filled with challenges—moments where the winds of uncertainty blow harshly, where the waves of doubt crash relentlessly. For professional women, these storms can often feel overwhelming. Balancing a demanding career, personal responsibilities, and the inner struggles of doubt and fear can sometimes feel like navigating a tempest without a compass. But here’s the truth: every storm you face is an opportunity to grow stronger, wiser, and more powerful. The key to enduring and overcoming these storms lies not in avoiding them, but in facing them with unwavering courage and determination. It’s in these challenging moments that your true resilience is forged. You may not control the storm, but you can control how you respond to it. Endurance: The Strength to Keep Going Endurance isn’t just about surviving; it’s about standing tall even when the world tries to knock you down. As women in the professional world, we often face unique obstacles. Whether it’s dealing with workplace biases, managing multiple roles at home and at work, or combating the inner voice of doubt, the storms we encounter may feel insurmountable. But endurance is about recognizing that each obstacle, each hardship, is a stepping stone on your path to greatness. During these times, it’s important to remember your “why”—the reasons you started, the purpose driving you forward. It’s easy to get bogged down by distractions and setbacks, but when you hold tightly to your vision and values, you’ll find the strength to persevere. Every time you face a storm head-on, you build a foundation of resilience that no challenge can easily tear down. Overcoming: Turning Challenges into Opportunities Overcoming a storm is about shifting your mindset. Instead of seeing setbacks as roadblocks, view them as opportunities for growth. Every challenge you face offers a lesson—one that equips you with greater wisdom, strength, and vision. It’s in these tough times that your skills as a leader, a mother, a mentor, and a visionary are sharpened. Start by taking small steps forward. Even when it feels like the storm is relentless, focus on what you can control. Break down the overwhelming into manageable tasks. One foot in front of the other. One decision at a time. It’s in these small victories that momentum begins to build. And soon, what once seemed insurmountable will feel like a part of your journey—an experience that made you better, stronger, and more confident. Winning: Embracing the Storm as Your Catalyst Winning through the storm isn’t about coming out unscathed—it’s about emerging from the storm with a renewed sense of purpose and power. Storms teach us more than any calm day could. They show us what we’re made of, they refine our abilities, and they remind us of our unwavering strength. Winning, for a professional woman, means reclaiming your narrative. It means showing up, unapologetically, in every area of your life. It means setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and demanding the respect you deserve. It means not only achieving your goals but doing so in a way that empowers others along the way. When you triumph through the storm, you set an example for other women around you to do the same. The storms in our lives are not just obstacles; they are opportunities for transformation. They break down what is no longer serving us and make space for new growth, new beginnings, and new victories. And when the storm passes, you will see that you not only survived—you thrived. You emerged victorious. Conclusion: You Are the Storm You, as a powerful woman, are capable of so much more than you think. Your resilience, your grit, your unwavering determination to rise above the storm defines your success. Each storm you face is a step toward the life and career you’ve always dreamed of. So, the next time a storm rolls in, don’t shrink back—stand tall, endure, overcome, and win. The storm will pass, but the strength it builds within you will stay forever. Remember: the fiercest storms produce the most resilient women. And you are unstoppable.Mon, 28 Oct 2024 10:36:00 -0700