We had the good fortune of connecting with LeJuane “El’Ja” Bowens and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi LeJuane “El’Ja”, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
This is a very difficult question. I feel like there is so much more work I do now compared to when I started sixteen years ago. I do so much more these days. Performing, hosting, curating, and having meetings to make things happen are almost an everyday things. And yet, I’ve been able to also find the time to relax, take trips with my family, talk with my sons, and just do absolutely nothing as well. So, I guess with all that being said, I’d say that the balance has been a good one as long as it remains just that; balanced.

 

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
A lot of this work is never easy. It’s time consuming, frustrating, and nerve racking. But, it’s all worth it once the end result comes out the way that you imagined it to. I got to where I am at professionally with building new skills, working hard, and a bit of luck being in certain places at just the right time. My story is simple. As long as you remember the purpose of why you do what you love, then you will always be alright as long as you remain true. Hence, the motto, Purpose Over Popularity. There is a few things that I am extremely proud of, but to be honest, everything is something I am proud of because it’s something I’ve never thought I’d see myself doing. And for that, I’m thankful

 

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Southeastern Regional NC Poetry Slam The Sweet Palette/Blanc Coffee Roasters
Stop_Button
The Coffee Scene
International Folk Festival
Fayetteville Comic Con

 

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Mrs. Washam, Ms. Stepleton, and Ms. Hullinger (My teachers), My mother Barbara Bowens and my grandmother Elnora Bowens, A TON of poets and writers that I can not list on here because we would be here all day. And last, but definitely not least, my beatiful wife Monica Hanynes Bowens aka the Boss Lady.

 

Website: www.poetrynmotionnc.com

Instagram: @eljapoetry

Linkedin: @eljapoetry

Twitter: @eljapoetry

Facebook: @eljapoetry

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