SHARONDA
BUTLER
STEWART

Rediscovering Purpose

Life is full of seasons — and with each new chapter comes the opportunity to rediscover who we are. For Sharonda, longtime FemCity Miami member, that journey began after her oldest daughter graduated high school. With 19 years dedicated to being a stay-at-home mom, she suddenly faced a big question: What’s next?

Below, Sharonda shares her reflections on embracing change, letting go of old roles, and finding purpose with the support of community.

A New Chapter After Motherhood

"Honestly it was after my oldest daughter graduated high school. I have been a stay-at-home mom for 19 years and all of a sudden it hit me that in a few years I will be an empty nester. I began to question what’s next? What will my days look like? What is my purpose in this new phase of life?"

Sharonda’s honesty is a reminder that it’s never too late to ask big questions and begin again.

It’s Never Too Late to Start Fresh

Many women feel pressure to “have it all figured out” by a certain age, but Sharonda reminds us that life is always evolving.

"We are not the same person we were 10 years ago, 5 years ago, or even last year. Life happens and sometimes we’re forced to pivot — whether through unemployment, illness, or the pandemic. Remember that it’s never too late to follow your dreams."

Giving Yourself Grace in the Process

Redefining purpose often requires shedding old expectations.

"I gave myself grace to say, ‘this isn’t working, let me try something else.’ I try to see everything as lessons, not failures."

This mindset shift allows room for growth without judgment.

Practices That Keep Purpose Aligned

Sharonda credits two powerful practices for staying aligned:

Allowing herself to pivot and try new things without fear.
Working with a life coach, who provided accountability and support when she needed it most.

"Nothing beats a failure but a try!" she reminds us.

The Power of Female Friendships and Community

When asked about the role of support, Sharonda lights up:

"The highlight of my month is attending FemCity Miami events. I’ve been a member for over ten years, and every time I leave, I feel inspired. It’s like my cup is refilled. This community has kept me going when I didn’t know which way to go. And my mom is my biggest cheerleader — I couldn’t do it without her support."

Friendship and community, she shares, are not luxuries — they’re essential for healing, clarity, and forward momentum.

One Small Step to Start Today

For women feeling stuck or uninspired, Sharonda offers this advice:

"Take a step back and journal about what lit you up before this season of life. What made you feel alive? Write it down and take action toward getting that feeling back."

Final Thoughts

Sharonda’s journey reminds us that purpose isn’t a one-time discovery — it’s an ongoing process. With grace, curiosity, and community, we can continue to grow and evolve at every stage of life.

Sharonda’s Journey of Growth, Change, and Community