We had the good fortune of connecting with Jordan Cutler and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jordan, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Having a strong work ethic was instilled in me at an early age, something I’m sure many kids of color can relate to. I remember being in middle school as a P.K. (pastor’s kid) organizing church events and in high school working two part time jobs while still participating in so many extracurricular activities. Back then, laziness wasn’t an option. My world revolved around work and achievement. Every task completed was a badge of honor, a sign of progress.

Well, I carried that mentality throughout high school, college and into my career and found my self over-worked and quite frankly, exhausted. I would have these “crashes” after long-periods of time working as ways to bring myself back to what I perceived as a “balanced life”. But the reality was, I didn’t really know what true balance looked like and I surely didn’t know that my body was even signaling to me to take moments and breaks before I hit those walls.

When I moved to Houston a few years ago, I received a tough wake-up call on the negative effects of not having work life balance. While simultaneously juggling a divorce with a tough work environment, I maintained my “strong work ethic” but not without a cost. Constant illness and food sensitivities led to a gastroenterologist visit. The verdict: stress-induced IBS and an alcohol intolerance, something that flipped my entire foodie world upside down. This wake-up call sparked a deep dive into the gut-brain connection, leading me to prioritize a work-life balance that truly nourished me.

I began to be more intentional about crafting a balance that fulfilled the different areas of my life. For me working in a fast-paced environment, that means taking mental health days when needed (and not feeling guilty about it!), honing in on my body/brain and really listening for early signs of exhaustion, burnout, and stress. Scheduling more physical activities, like runs or yoga sessions to keep my body moving. Participating in experiences that truly spark joy, like taking dance classes. Developing personal passion projects that fuel my spirit. Setting boundaries, putting my phone on DND. saying no and advocating for what I need, both personally and professionally, so I’m empowered to show up as my best self.

This list is always growing and changing as I continue to grow and evolve. But to me, balance isn’t about a quick bubble bath or spa day, it’s about crafting my schedule and life in a way that allows me to handle the influx of projects, tasks and little inconveniences that come my way. It’s about making sure I’m fulfilled on the inside – so that I can pour out. I don’t have it figured out, It’s still a learning process but I give myself so much grace to learn what works for me.

What I do know is that hard work is integral to success, so I’m in no way saying don’t work hard. Again, I attribute a lot that I have accomplished to that work ethic, but creating some sort of balance that works for YOU is so important for your sustainability, livelihood and your mental health.

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.
Oh my goodness. Love this question and the value it places on community because no one truly makes it to any level of success on their own.

I have to shout a few family members! First toasting to my parents who despite everything, I can appreciate the level of intentionally they placed (and the sacrifices that came with it) on exposing me to sooo many opportunities and experiences.

To my Memaw – you helped me see the world, remind me it is never too late to achieve your dreams… and to always look fabulous while doing it!

Shoutout to my aunts: Myra, Aunt Gwen! My late uncles: Uncle O and Uncle Michael. Their support is/was unparalleled. My college PR professor – Mrs. Crawford who inspired and mentored me!

And lastly to Kerry Washington and the real life Olivia Pope- Judy Smith. Had the tv show Scandal never aired, I’m not sure I would’ve known PR existed and would have not been inspired to chose the career path I embarked on. #GladiatorsinSuits!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love to host and Houston’s food scene is really underrated so most my itineraries would be a food tour around the city. IYKYK.

Over the course of the week for breakfast, we’d stop at Day 6 Coffee Co. for a delicious cup of coffee and baked goods. Thrive Juice for an açai bowl. Ginger Mule for a vegan brunch that will leave you fooled!

For lunch or dinner: Figo Sugo is hands down my favorite pasta place (shoutout to Chef Chris), ChòpnBlọk for lunch followed by a scoop of the Vegan Chocolate ice cream from Flower & Cream to satisfy your sweet tooth. Hit up Morningside Thai for a chill evening on the patio. Head to Dakar Street Food for Senegalese food. Yoshi Sushi & Ramen or Roka Akor for delicious sushi for either a causal or elevated vibe and of course – Toro Toro one of my favorite dining experiences.

Activity wise I love to dance so a bar-hop along Main Street is always a vibe, hitting up a pop-event like The Jaiye Room or 4pm in Soweto. Finding a concert or live music event in the city to throw in the itinerary. A trip to Chinatown to visit Happy Feet Massage for a quick and cheap massage to leave everyone relaxed. A trip to Swallow’s Nest in Finn Hall for a mocktail/cocktail.

I know I’m missing a few places but these are some of my favorites.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Oh my goodness. Love this question and the importance it plays on community because no one truly makes it to any level of success on their own.

I have to shout a few family members! First toasting to my parents who despite everything, I can appreciate the level of intentionally they placed (and the sacrifices that came with it) on exposing me to sooo many opportunities and experiences.

To my Memaw – you helped me see the world, reminded me it was never too late to achieve your dreams… and to look fabulous while doing it!

Shoutout to my aunts, Myra, Aunt Gwen! My late uncles (Uncle O and Uncle Michael

And lastly to Kerry Washington and the real life Olivia Pope- Judy Smith. Had you all not created Scandal, I’m not sure I would have ever known PR existed and would have not chosen my career path.

Website: https://www.strategicsolutionsagencyllc.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejordanalexandria/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordancutler526/

Image Credits
Egidio Narvaez Photography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.