Author Sheila Harris on her book “Calling Revealed” and how to live a successful life.

Sheila Harris has been a leading figure in Black media for over two decades. The author and life coach joined Essence Magazine early in her career and worked her way up the ladder to her latest position, Director of Strategic Communications and Partnerships. Harris has written a new book, CALLING REVEALED, where she uncovers her faith-based journey toward finding her purpose and walking in her calling.

During the pandemic, as the world and the way we live changed before our eyes, Harris had an idea and worked to pen a message that would help positively shift readers’ mindsets. While the pandemic brought uncertainty and change to many, Harris worked to bring readers from a place of fear to conquering their reality and fulfilling their destiny. In Harris’s own words, “Pay attention because there are always clues that you will find in your life’s journey.”

This past week, Heart & Soul caught up with Harris on the red carpet of the 15th Annual Essence Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon, celebrating her industry peers and some of today’s biggest names in Black Hollywood such as Nia Long (You People), Aunjanue Ellis (King Richard), Quinta Brunson (Abbot Elementary), and Chante Adams (A Journal For Jordan).

The faith-based author opened up about the new book CALLING REVEALED and shares her top five tips to building faith in an unprecedented post-pandemic world.

Q. In this day and age, it’s almost unheard of for one person to work for one brand for over 25 years. How have you been able to have such longevity?

A. It’s been a joy to work with the brand, [and] as you mentioned this year will make 25 years. I’ve worked with some amazing people both inside Essence as well as outside. It’s a family after a while, it becomes a family. Everyone is super dedicated to their work and the message [of Essence]. Super dedicated to the African American community and its community of women and it’s always been exciting and a joy.

Q. What inspired you to write your new book “Calling Revealed?”

A. I’ve always had a love for writing since childhood. I had the desire to write a book for a long time, I just wasn’t clear on the topic. When I wrote “Calling Revealed” it was just the perfect season. At that point, I knew that I wanted my book to serve a greater purpose. Some so many people find themselves at a crossroads in their life as far as their career, relationships, life’s calling, and more. I wanted to help provide a map for someone contemplating their next step by pointing them to the best guide there is. For me, that has always been God’s Word.

Q. What are some clues you can share on how one can know what their calling is?

A. Pay attention to the things you like or are passionate about.
Q. You speak about being intentional a lot these days, how has turning 50 brought new meaning to what “intention” means to you?

A. Celebrating this milestone birthday this year has helped me to become even more intentional in my choices. It’s making me push even more to plant seeds that will allow me to hopefully have a more peaceful life in the next phase of my life.

Q. As a woman of faith, please share five things can people right now to strengthen and maintain their faith?

• Feed your spirit with faith-filled messages
• Stay away from negativity
• Testify to yourself by looking back at times that you overcame challenges in your life
• Make time for rest
• Make time for what brings you joy

Q. What is your message to women internationally?

A. I would love for all women to understand the purpose and calling in their life. I believe that when you take the time to discover what that is for you, understanding will then help to guide your decisions as you impact your family, your community, the political arena, and more.

Q. What are you most proud of?

A. I’m proud of a lot of things. I think for me what I’m most proud of is being a woman of faith and just watching as the Lord has guided me throughout my career. That’s what’s been most important to me. I’ve been most proud of the fact that he has ordered my steps in his timing so I’m just excited about what’s coming next!

Follow Sheila Harris on Instagram @sistasheilasays. Her book Calling Revealed is available on Amazon.