Writing Two Books at the Same Time

The story behind Rise & Shine You

When I first dreamed of creating something beyond my career, I did what I’ve always done… brainstorm, outline, plan, and execute. Years in healthcare and corporate work taught me how to build processes, solve problems, check boxes, and move fast. But when it came to building what would become Rise & Shine You, I found myself on an unfamiliar trail.

Blood Mountain: 1, Me: also, 1... Because sometimes survival is the victory

I had many versions mapped out: programs, courses, memberships. Most looked a lot like the models I saw working for others. But every time I tried to bring one to life, it felt forced. Like I was on a trail that I had no interest in hiking. It may have great views but unless you can soak up the steps there and back, that epic view is only a portion of the hike.

So, for one of the first times. I didn’t push harder. I paused. I prayed. I listened.

And in that pause, I realized: sometimes the best leadership lesson is knowing when NOT to take the next step.

That stillness gave me space to remember who I wanted to be, not just in my career, not just at home, but as a whole person.

The most freeing discovery? You can write two books at the same time.

You don’t have to wait until you can dedicate every hour to one dream. You don’t have to choose one lane, one title, or one version of yourself.

Two versions of me. Both real. Both worthy. And the best part? I don't have to choose just one.

It’s never too late to edit your own story.

Rise & Shine You emerged when I stopped chasing “should” and started following what fueled the fire in my heart. It wasn’t born from rushing but from listening.

This is more than a creative outlet, it’s an invitation. An invitation to pause, to listen, and to remember who you once wanted to be. It's an invitation to start now, with whatever time you have, instead of waiting for the perfect moment.

Because the stories worth living become the words worth sharing.

And at the end of the day, our lives aren’t just chapters.

They’re entire books.

Wild.

Unfinished.

And Ours to Write.

Rooted in Faith. Guided by Grace. With Fire in my Heart.

~Alissa Blevins

Rise & Shine You