Monee Williams is a busy woman, she has a career, she’s a mother to three energetic children, including an active pre-teen and just recently she became guardian of her younger sister.
Williams remedy for juggling it all is simple, she exercises a lot.
“A good run is therapeutic. When I don’t take time to exercise I am off balance,” said Williams who lives in Hopkins, Minnesota and runs whether it’s 70 degrees or 20 degrees.
Williams, a Technology and Operations manager says she plans everything, but understands plans fall apart.
“I am also forgiving of myself and have given myself permission to be okay with everything not going as planned,” she said. “Tomorrow is always a new day.”
A new day began for Williams and her family this past October when her 15-year-old sister Anisa came to live with her after their mother passed.
Williams said the adjustment has been relative and she takes things day by day. She says her sister has done a great job of becoming involved in school, making friends and most importantly keeping her grades up.
“We are getting to know each other and learning to work together effectively as a family and creating our new reality,” Williams said.
As a family they bowl, travel and play games together. And of course they all love to shop, especially her daughters and sister.
She advises women in similar situations to take it one day at a time, make communication the priority and remain flexible.
Williams often relies on lessons from her mother.
“She didn’t let her circumstances control her,” she said. “She was very resilient and if she wanted something she would work to get it or achieve it.”
Williams continues speaking of the woman she calls her role model. “She has taught me so much about unconditional love and how to give freely.”
Williams said her mom was fantastic. “I hope I can emulate all that she was.”
Likewise, Williams is motivated by her children. She works hard to instill in them hard work, prayer and showing them what dedication can do.
“I want them to know that no matter your circumstances, keep your head up and persevere.”

Monee is a native of Lithonia, Ga. She’s a graduate of Florida A&M University and Metropolitan State University, her hobbies include running, sewing and gardening.

Pictured above with Monee, her daughters Nailah and J. Simone, son Nasir and sister Anisa