“I Don’t Live Just To Work”: Jovian Zayne On Using The Weekend For Self-Care

As a part of our Friday Nights, Saturday Mornings feature, we're talking to some of our favorite boss ladies about their weekends, their way. How do they relax, recharge and refuel? As we all know, life shouldn't be all about work. It's what we do beyond business and career that help keep us motivated and able to dominate for the week ahead.
Meet Jovian Zayne - an international speaker, coach, and founder of the OnPurpose Movement®. Here Jovian reflects on why self-care is so important and why taking time to fill ourselves up will allow for blessings to overflow in other areas of our lives.
This is what she had to say about her weekend, her way.
The perfect Friday Night:
"I see why growing up, my mama would tell me to just go take a nap somewhere. At the end of a long week, that's all I want! I believe naps, a good meal and some prayer can truly change things! It's also my belief that my greatest act of self-care is honoring the purpose over my life so I consider self-care to be any act that I can do to edify my spirit, mind, body and soul.
"I use the Self-Journal as a great tool to reflect on lessons learned, and progress I've made for the week. On any given Friday night, you can catch me cuddled up with my husband for our weekly date night (We - don't - miss - it!) eating at a new restaurant, watching a movie or falling down a YouTube rabbit hole."

Courtesy of Jovian Zayne
"My greatest act of self-care is honoring the purpose over my life so I consider self-care to be any act that I can do to edify my spirit, mind, body and soul."
How she powers up on Saturday Mornings:
"As my friend, fellow wife and entrepreneur Desiree has said, 'The ministry of home is REAL.' I try to hold my weekends sacred, doing little to NO work and prioritizing activities that keep my house in order, my marriage front and center and my spirit relaxed. I know that I can't give what I don't have, so I use my weekends as my time to replenish for the week ahead. I sometimes think about them as mini vacations and live by the 'Must Do vs. Nice to Do' rule.
"If it's not a 'Jovian, you absolutely have to do this' type of thing, it'll have to wait until next week. I want my Saturdays to feel fun and unbothered by the agenda I follow during the week. If it keeps me energized and moving towards my best, then I'm doing it on a Saturday. If it's wearing me out, I'm not. This mindset helps me prioritize important things like taking a nap, hitting the gym and [spending] quality time with family and friends."

Courtesy of Jovian Zayne
"I try to hold my weekends sacred, doing little to NO work and prioritizing activities that keep my house in order, my marriage front and center and my spirit relaxed. I know that I can't give what I don't have, so I use my weekends as my time to replenish for the week ahead."
The ideal Girls' Night:
"I LOVE MY GIRLS! With us being spread out all over the world, we love a good group FaceTime and are constantly talking on group texts and GroupMe. We share weekly wins every Wednesday aka 'WINSday' and prayer requests. My recipe for a great girls night: comfortable ambiance, good food, wine and intimate conversation.
"We'll celebrate any and everything together: promotions, new haircuts, cheekbones and breakups. For people looking for fun ways to spend quality time with their girls, I suggest inexpensive trips to new places in the US, watch parties at someone's house, themed dinners, brunch parties and worship circles."

Courtesy of Jovian Zayne
"My recipe for a great girls night: comfortable ambiance, good food, wine and intimate conversation."
How recharging helped her business:
"I've been reminded that I work to live the full life I want to experience. I don't live just to work. My life is only as full as my commitment to honor the purpose I see God has put on my life. I know that my purpose extends far beyond my career. I'm grateful that I love my work. I see direct connection to my purpose in my current career, but I also recognize that spending time with my family and friends, developing new healthy habits and exploring the world are a part of how I can honor God with the life that I have.
"It's important to remember that you can't give what you don't have. In order to give my best to my business, I must give my best to other areas of my life. That ultimately allows me to show up more present and connected in my business. I've learned from my mentors, sages and older guides that this mindset is critical to owning and living my definition of success."
Connect with Jovian on Instagram @jovianzayne.
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The Real Reason You Overthink And Crave Reassurance In Love
Over 40 million Americans have an anxiety disorder. However, what if I told you that everyone on the planet experiences situational anxiety - feelings of anxiousness when exposed to certain situations - and this isn't a diagnosis but rather a part of everyday life?
Given the prevalence of anxiety, it's quite possible that symptoms of anxiety will arise not just during the dating phase but even in the relationship phase, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of because it’s simply an effect of being human. Although it's normal to feel anxious, it's important to remember that leaving anxiety untreated can have detrimental side effects that impact our daily lives.
Relationship Anxiety: Signs And How To Overcome It
Anxiety is a common issue many people face, which can significantly impact romantic relationships. Here are several ways that anxiety can show up in romantic relationships and what you can do about them:
Relationship Anxiety Signs #1: Overthinking
The anxious brain can feel difficult to manage. People with anxiety tend to overthink situations, causing them to become anxious and worried about things that may not be a big deal. This can lead to arguments and misunderstandings in a relationship, as the anxious partner may worry about things that the other partner does not find concerning. Challenging irrational thoughts and having conversations about those that feel rational is important. Often, the quick fix to feeling anxious in a relationship is communication.
Relationship Anxiety Signs #2: Need for Reassurance
Individuals with anxiety may need constant reassurance from their partner, which can be draining for the other partner. It is important for the anxious partner to work on building their own self-confidence and trust in their partner.
Relationship Anxiety Signs #3: Fear of Abandonment
Anxious attachment, much? People with anxiety may have a fear of abandonment, causing them to become clingy or too dependent on their partner. This can be difficult for the other partner, who may feel smothered or unable to have their own space. It is important for the anxious partner to learn how to manage their fear of abandonment and trust in their partner's commitment to the relationship.
Going to therapy is often the first step to healing your abandonment wound because it’s much deeper than your partner’s actions, and if you don’t get to the root of the problem, you will continue to watch the problem grow.
Relationship Anxiety Signs #4: Avoidance
Individuals with anxiety may avoid situations or conversations that make them feel anxious or uncomfortable, leading to a lack of communication and intimacy in the relationship. If you want to build a safe and secure relationship, you have to be an active participant in your relationship. Do things like couple experiences or card games to enhance emotional intimacy and build a safe relationship you don’t want to run away from.
Relationship Anxiety Signs #5: Control
Anxiety can lead to a need for control, manifesting in a relationship as controlling behavior. This behavior can come from jealousy and other issues, and it can become destructive and damaging to both partners. It is important for the anxious partner to manage their anxiety and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Remember, being in a relationship does not mean you own your partner. Control is a personal issue that your partner cannot fix for you.
Trying to rob them of their autonomy will cause friction and lead to relationship dissatisfaction based on your inability to be a secure partner. Get the help you need by working through your fear of letting go and discerning where your controlling behavior stems from.
Relationship Anxiety Signs #6: Perfectionism
People with anxiety may have a tendency towards perfectionism, leading to unrealistic expectations and pressure in the relationship. It is important for the anxious partner to learn how to manage their anxiety and develop a more realistic and compassionate view of themselves and their partner.
Anxiety can have a significant impact on romantic relationships. It is important for both partners to work together to manage anxiety, develop healthy coping mechanisms, communicate effectively, and trust each other. However, it is also important to do the inner work, as anxiety can be an internal issue that your partner cannot fix for you.
If you want to build a healthy relationship, you must contribute to it by engaging in healthy behaviors.
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Featured image by Shutterstock
Originally published on July 14, 2023
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In The Dominican Republic, I Found Paradise, Presence & Permission To Pause
As I grow deeper into my mindfulness practice, I’m constantly reminded of how essential it is to be present. Our society is filled with so many distractions that we often don’t give our full attention to the things and people that matter most.
That’s why I was eager to learn more about Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection’s “Time Here Is Worth More” campaign. The campaign was designed to create meaningful moments for individuals who crave quality time with loved ones, relaxation, and much more. In other words, it allows you to be present with yourself and others.
I was elated at the opportunity to experience this firsthand at their newest all-inclusive resort, Secrets Playa Esmeralda in Miches, Dominican Republic. It was there that I realized that everything I’ve learned so far on my mindfulness journey had been worth it.
From listening to world-renowned mindfulness expert and author Deepak Chopra, M.D., speak to swinging on top of a mountain. I was able to tap back into who I am and relish in the person I’m becoming. Here are a few takeaways from my three-day trip.

London on the balcony of her suite at Secrets Playa Esmeralda, Miches, DR
Courtesy
Luxury Is My Birthright
There’s nothing like living in the lap of luxury and Secrets Playa Esmeralda provided that and more. Once I arrived at the sprawling resort, I was greeted with champagne. Then I was whisked away to my deluxe suite and it was more than I expected. It was spacious, yet comfortable. It sat right on the beach giving me unobstructed views of the white sand and crystal blue waters.
I could hear the ocean waves in my room, which was really nice during bedtime. I had a butler who assisted me with whatever I needed and I took advantage of the turn down service every night. I spent time in the pool, on the beach, and at the spa. It was magical.

Yoga at Secrets Playa Esmeralda, Miches, DR
Courtesy
Digital Distractions Are Real
Every evening, our group met for dinner with the option to put our phones away. This was in line with the theme of being present and while I didn’t mind giving my phone away, it was odd not having it with me. I know I’m not alone in saying I use my phone a lot. Whether to look something up, to take photos, or to mindlessly scroll in between conversations.
However, it wasn’t until my wrist started buzzing that I realized I was wearing my Apple Watch. Further proving how much we rely on electronics and need a break from it. While my Apple Watch is also considered a digital distraction, I wasn’t as tempted to check it as I would my phone.

London visiting Montaña Redonda in Miches, DR
Courtesy
Being Present Is A Must
It was an honor to sit across from Dr. Chopra, the man who teaches on the very things I’ve been learning about these past few years. His presence was magnetic and I was excited to hear him speak live for the first time.
He joined Hyatt’s Wellbeing Collective Advisory Board and created an exclusive AI, DeepakChopra.ai for the resort. Before our intimate conversation with the author of The Seven Spiritual Laws Of Success, he led us into meditation.
From there, he dropped a lot of gems, particularly as it relates to being present. “Presence is divine,” he told us. He also shared some advice on how to stay present. “Periodically, ask yourself, ‘Am I here?’ When you ask yourself, you will be present,” he said.
I often go on exciting trips, but what made this one special was the emphasis on being present. Thanks to the constant reminder, I was able to really sit back, relax, and soak in the picturesque resort. Not to mention, I also got to explore other parts of the island like a Cacao farm and Montaña Redonda, a mountain with jaw-dropping views.
This trip came at a crucial time in my life where I was trying to figure out what to do next in my career and it allowed me to sit still and embrace the unknown.
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