My blog needs more activity. Occasionally, as an interior designer, I will have a brainstorming session, especially when I need to make a life-changing decision, whether personal or business. I brainstorm because I prefer to make the right choice in the first round and don't want to make a mistake that wastes my valuable time.

As a business owner, I have a lot to tackle daily, and blogging is essential to my work as an interior designer.

I understand why I couldn't blog for so long. For instance, I feel highly accomplished, even though I stopped blogging, and I reflected on how long I have been designing and how my business and presence as a designer have evolved. Also, I asked myself: Have I already achieved enough for Kimberly A. Carter-Lyons? Let me think for a moment.

I would love to know the origin of this image. It reminds me of myself as a little girl, spoiled rotten and, of course, a brat. However, as a child and now as an adult, my parents have consistently talked positively about specific aspects that should form a solid foundation for my life. As a result, I have stayed true to myself, no matter what is going on around me.

Education is highly significant, and no one can take it away from me.
I love myself unconditionally.
Never, ever sell out – PERIOD!
Always be a leader.
Never sacrifice my morals and values.
It's okay to dream, but make sure it becomes a reality.
Stay original and authentic.
Reach beyond the stars, but if I choose to soar past them, I will be closer to the most exceptional designer ever – God.
I saved the best for last because I ALWAYS KEEP GOD FIRST before all people and things in this world!

However, have I already achieved enough for Kimberly A. Carter-Lyons? I struggled with it for a while, and procrastination set in. Yes, ma'am, procrastination. As I mentioned, even though I have been designing for years, I have not needed to pursue higher education. I often pondered this because my parents always said there was no time limit for school. I understand the importance of knowledge and how it helps an interior designer keep achieving at a higher level, regardless of the credentials already earned. About 4.5 years ago, I came to a complete halt and had to make another life-changing decision.

I didn't post then because I realized it wasn't the right time. Nevertheless, I have reached another milestone in my life today. The pot of gold at the end of the rainbow has been a colorful blessing. I always needed to dig deeper into commercial, hospitality, and global design. So, I decided to acquire another degree. It wasn't easy because I already had a busy schedule. At the same time, several factors kept me from settling into a comfortable routine. Trust me, running an interior design studio, managing a fast-paced personal life, and balancing it all was no joke. It became a real-life struggle.

With my enduring dedication, strong will, determination, and my favorite word of all, perseverance, I was about to accomplish another milestone in my life. At times, I felt like I was depriving myself of sleep, even though I inexplicably had so much energy. My body was going in one direction, yelling, SLOW DOWN, girl, but my brain told me, YOU GOT THIS! I knew the result once I got past the silver lining in the sky. It has been incredibly challenging work, but earning another degree in various design areas has transformed my life.

I proudly claimed yet another accomplishment and blessing. My Interior Design, Bachelor of Fine Arts (MAGNA CUM LAUDE) at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center in Atlanta. Oh, and I'm being overly excited! I walked on June 18, 2018, and I am beyond proud of myself for earning another degree. I walked with amazing people while earning a high GPA with honors. I am also a proud member of the National Technical Honor Society and Kappa Pi Honor Society because I am that nerd chick, yes, baby!

The world of interior design offers numerous specialties to choose from rather than focusing on just one. I am following my own heart because I love Kimberly A. Carter-Lyons! I have officially started a new chapter in my life. God had already planned everything; I just needed to follow through and listen to my heart, which I did. Now it is time to explore all my unlimited assets in the ever-changing world of interior design!