Evolving While Black

The Ultimate Guide to Happiness and Transformation on Your Own Terms

By: Chianti Lomax

Narrated by: Chianti Lomax

A Black woman’s guide to authentic happiness, healing, and radical transformation

“If you asked my grandmother what self-care was,” says Chianti Lomax, “I’m pretty sure her response would be: ‘Self-care? That’s for rich white women!’” Our mothers and grandmothers were too busy fighting for the future of their families to often consider their own wellness and happiness—and now, as the inheritors of their mighty labors, we have the opportunity to do more than simply survive. So how do we thrive? How do Black women grow, transform, and make good use of the power they have?

In Evolving While Black, Lomax—renowned life coach and “Chief Happiness Curator”—shares a guide to help Black women achieve authentic happiness and liberation on their own terms. By shifting the culturally constrained language and perspective from which mindfulness and self-care practices are normally presented, she breaks down barriers and invites us to bring the power of these evidence-based teachings into our lives, families, and communities. This joyous book paves the way for personal growth, presenting bite-size actions that lead to healing, confidence, self-efficacy, and, most importantly, true self-love. Lomax offers practices, challenges, and reflections in each chapter, exploring topics such as:

• Self-awareness and self-love—deepening your understanding to find the roots of both your challenges and your gifts

• The impact of ancestors—understanding how your history and your genes shape your life

• The power of mindset—discovering limiting beliefs and shaping new mindsets that lead to flourishing

• Boundaries—rescuing time and peace of mind with healthy boundaries

• Habit change—identifying habits that hold you back and how to make new habits that last

• Intuition—connecting with your inner knowing and setting meaningful life goals

• Life balance—finding your own combination of hustle and flow

With no-bull bravery, honesty, and warmth, Evolving While Black welcomes us into a flourishing space of growth and self-discovery.

©2024 Chianti Lomax (P)2024 Sounds True

Critic reviews

“Evolving While Black is right on time. It is easy to relate to Chianti Lomax, as another highly credentialed Black woman with a similar Southern Baptist upbringing who was expected to excel and go above and beyond, while going along to get along and being all things to all people. I see a lot of myself in her stories, and her writing is so familiar that I know the practices she espouses are directly applicable. I will use her chapter on boundaries as my own personal guide. Seeing how the lack of boundary setting was controlling my life—from my emotional energy to time to physical resources—and learning how to set limits, even when others don’t expect me to, is a defiant act of self-care. This is a must-read, and it actually ‘read’ me without even trying. Chianti is a friend we all want, with practical advice we need.”—Bärí A. Williams, startup adviser and former lead counsel at Facebook; author of Seen Yet Unseen

“As a Black woman who juggles a million things all the time, this book was a breath of fresh air. Evolving While Black not only helped me feel less selfish when tending to my own needs, but made me realize that we must do this for our self-preservation, survival, and sanity. Chianti Lomax uses examples from her life to connect while providing a road map through the feelings that may come when you confront your traumas, give yourself grace, and understand that loving yourself in daily bits of practice is the way to walking out a joyous and liberated life.”—Deesha Dyer, former Obama White House social secretary; author of Undiplomatic

“Chianti Lomax gets it! She speaks directly to the heart of her reader. I found myself audibly saying YES many times. I appreciated reading a self-development book that accounts for how the complexities of race and gender can affect our mental health. Throughout the pages, I felt seen, acknowledged, and gently pushed toward more healing and transformation. This is an accessible and relatable guide for Black women on their healing journey while still being lighthearted and fun to read. Chianti provides useful strategies, relatable stories, and actionable steps to transform your life.”—Shelah Marie, founder of Curvy, Curly, Conscious; author of Unruly

loved the journal prompts

an excellent start to self care journey. the author makes practical and personal suggestions.

This is easily a top 5 personal development book!

In "Evolving While Black," Chianti Lomax offers more than just a self-help book; it's a journey wrapped in wit and wisdom that speaks directly to the soul. As a Black man navigating life's twists and turns, her stories resonate deeply, reflecting shared experiences and offering practical tools for growth. From setting boundaries that redefine self-care to navigating the complexities of identity and mental health, Chianti's insights are a beacon of hope and empowerment.

Through relatable anecdotes and a touch of humor, Lomax breaks down the barriers that hold us back, encouraging us to embrace transformation and reclaim our joy. Her blend of personal narrative and researched based actionable advice makes this a must-read for anyone looking to evolve and thrive. "Evolving While Black" isn't just a book; it's a companion on the journey to self-discovery and resilience, reminding us all that our stories matter and our healing is non-negotiable. -Nate Bennett