We had the good fortune of connecting with Dr. Franceska Jones and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dr. Franceska, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Reflecting on my life balance’s evolution over time, I see it has been a dynamic journey of self-discovery and adaptation. Early in my career, the pursuit of professional success often took precedence, leading to a more skewed work-life balance. However, as I progressed and matured, I came to appreciate the importance of a holistic approach to life.

Life balance, for me, is not about strict compartmentalization but rather an integration of various facets that contribute to overall well-being. It’s a conscious effort to allocate time and energy to professional pursuits, personal growth, relationships, and self-care. The realization dawned that achieving success in one area shouldn’t come at the expense of another; instead, a harmonious blend leads to a more fulfilling life.

I’ve adopted a mindset that views life balance as an ongoing process of adjustment. It involves regularly reassessing priorities, setting realistic goals, and being flexible in facing unforeseen challenges. Embracing this perspective has allowed me to navigate the complexities of a demanding career while nurturing personal relationships, maintaining health, and pursuing passions outside of work.

Moreover, I emphasize the quality of time spent in each domain rather than sheer quantity. The focus is on being present and fully engaged at work or in personal pursuits. This intentional approach has enhanced the satisfaction I derive from various aspects of life and contributed to a sense of fulfillment and purpose.

Life balance is a nuanced art, and my journey has taught me the importance of continuous self-reflection and adaptation. It’s about aligning priorities with values recognizing that balance is not a static state but a dynamic equilibrium that evolves with life’s changing seasons.

I have the privilege of helping other women find balance through my Harmony Within accountability community and my new Harmony Within 90-day Journal for Women. I feel we must share what we learn and help others!

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I am a problem solver! God has given me a unique mixed bag of skills. I have earned a bachelor’s degree in business, Economics, and Political Science from The Ohio State University, a master’s degree from John Carroll University in Nonprofit Administration, and a doctorate in Education from Morgan State University! I would like to say that I was super intentional in the degrees that I got, but I cannot take credit for that. God had a plan to make sure I understood business, how the world works, how to make money, and how to acquire knowledge and leadership. I solve problems; I execute for my clients. Primarily in nonprofit consulting through Jones Consulting Firm. My doctoral research centers around understanding what makes people give their time, money, and treasures to a cause. I literally wrote the book! So, I am an expert fundraiser. Outside of my primary business, I provide solutions to educational institutions through training and teaching; with my husband, we build businesses! I am different because I have educational knowledge coupled with lived experience. I like to say there is a purpose in my pain.

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.
I absolutely love my city! This is hard because there is so much to see and do! Depending on the season, I would take them to a sporting event. I am a season ticket holder to the Cleveland Cavaliers, with the best ticket representative shoutout to Jared Roskins ! Before the game, I would take them to my favorite pre-game restaurant, the Turn Bar + Kitchen at the Ritz-Carlton.

We would definitely hit some music spots like Musicbox Supper Club or a concert at Cain Park. A shoutout to the Heights! Many music venues exist in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Wade Oval Wednesday. I would definitely take them to our amazing museums and cultural gardens! I could not forget to take them to Playhouse Square for a show. We would stroll through the West Side Market, sampling different international cuisines.

I would choose a trendy restaurant in Ohio City or Tremont for dinner, offering a fusion of flavors. We would enjoy a leisurely morning at Edgewater Park, taking in the scenic views of Lake Erie, with lunch at Pier W.Cleveland is a gem, and each day is filled with something new and amazing!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Reflecting on the journey that has brought me to where I am today, my heartfelt shoutout is a mosaic of gratitude, weaving together the influences of cherished individuals and the nurturing embrace of communities.

To My Parents and Ancestors:
The roots of my strength and resilience lie in the wisdom and sacrifices of my parents Marc and Ladora Tucker, and my ancestors. Their hard work, values, and determination have been the bedrock upon which I’ve built my aspirations. Their legacy is a constant reminder of the importance of perseverance and the pursuit of dreams. Thank you, Mom and Dad! Love you!

To My Husband:
Behind every achievement is a supportive partner; my husband, Rudolph Jones III, has been a beacon of encouragement. His unwavering support, shared dreams, and belief in my potential have been a driving force, propelling me to reach for the stars and beyond. This shoutout is a tribute to the power of partnership and the strength that comes from standing together. He is super successful in his endeavors, and I thank God for allowing me to be a part of that, too!

To My Daughter Phoenix:
A profound source of inspiration lies in the innocence of a child’s gaze. My six-year-old daughter Phoenix has brought boundless joy and purpose to my life. Her curiosity, resilience, and boundless love remind me daily of the importance of balance, perspective, and the legacy we leave for future generations. Becoming her mother has inspired me to do the seemingly impossible unthinkable because she believes in me that her mom can do it!

To The Word Church:
A community is a cornerstone of personal growth, and The Word Church has been a spiritual anchor in my journey. The support, teachings, and sense of belonging from this community have played an integral role in shaping my character and providing a moral compass as I navigate life’s challenges. The leadership of my pastor, Dr. R.A.Vernon, and my first lady, Dr. Victory Vernon, is unparalleled.

In dedicating this shoutout, I extend my deepest appreciation to my parents, ancestors, husband, daughter, and The Word Church. Each thread in this tapestry represents a unique influence, a source of strength, and a reminder of the collective effort that shapes our stories. Together, they form the rich tapestry of my journey, and I am profoundly grateful for the love, encouragement, and mentorship each has bestowed upon me.

Website: www.thejonesconsultingfirm.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/franceskajones/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/franceskajones/

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/jonesconsultingfirm21/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYEOTDxwevcrrxfOd7irWlg

Other: www.taxsolutionsinconline.com

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