#Girlboss Gathering: Shruthi from thehonestShruth

You guys, I’m really excited about today’s post! It’s the first of a series I’m starting up here on Days By Day called #Girlboss Gathering.

I’ve wanted to start a monthly feature on the inspiring ladies along side us for awhile now. We know women supporting women is always a good idea! Plus, who doesn’t love learning about a fellow #girlboss and the awesome stuff she’s putting into the world?

Growing, encouraging, and cheering each other on? Sign me up. That’s exactly what #Girlboss Gathering is all about.

When an old friend and I got to chatting recently, it became clear this was the perfect opportunity to begin.

Today’s #Girlboss Gathering features the lovely Shruthi from thehonestShruth! I have loved reconnecting with Shruthi these past couple weeks because she is genuinely one of the most thoughtful, motivating, and adventurous souls you’ll meet. We first met during a small internship while attending The University of Texas, where we bonded over talks about our faith and relationships.

Now, this girl is living in London with her husband! Her blog is full of beautiful eats and dreamy European places that you’ll want to see.

So before I spoil anything else, check out a my fun Q&A with Shruthi below! You can also check out the feature she posted on Days By Day here.

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1. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your blog.

S: I am Indian born, American bred, living in London, married to a 6’6″ Texan, culturally Hindu, Christian by faith, mother to the most adorable (rowdy) pit-mix, a film and business college graduate, ears to six languages, fluent in two and a half, veggie married to an omni, and figuring out this passion for writing that God put in me when he had me in mind! My blog encompasses travel, food, fashion, and thought pieces! I’ve also started a Youtube channel so head on over there if you’re interested in ridiculous albeit informational pieces.

2. Why did you start a blog?

S: You know that saying “Figure out what you daydream about, because that’s where your time should go”? Yeah, I finally decided to (wo)man-up and get started on a blog. I fill up journals like nobody’s business, so I figured, why not pursue that passion? I’ve traveled my whole life as that’s how my parents gave us Christmas gifts, food has always been celebrated in my home, and I’m a very opinionated person – hence the spaces, eats, and thoughts that make up my blog, thehonestShruth.

4. What’s your favorite topic to blog about?

S: Thoughts. I’m a lifestyle blogger so I do write about travel, eats, and fashion, but  my favorite pieces are my opinion pieces. Those come from the heart. That’s why my blog is called thehonestShruth. As an Indian-American immigrant with a Christian faith and an inter-cultural marriage, my viewpoint is definitely unique. I write thoughts pieces on Thursdays if you’re interested.

3. What is your favorite post you’ve ever written and why?

S: My favorite blogpost would definitely have to be “The Importance of Date Night.” Besides being the most popular post in 2016 on my blog, it’s also the one that hits closest to home. I think marriage and relationships are such beautiful gifts but we have to take care of each other by chasing after one another you know? Date night is a way to have that time with your partner and leave the noise of the world behind for a few hours. We are so plugged into technology these days, and genuine quality time can be hard to come by.

4. How do you “turn off” from blogging mode?

S: This is so hard. The best way for me to do this is to put my phone away honestly. No social media equals no engaging with followers or people I follow. This automatically helps me to stop focusing on my blog. I do carry a little notebook with me in my bag so I can jot down ideas as they flow throughout the day.

5. When you aren’t blogging, what do you love to do?

S: You can probably find me playing tennis, trying to hit 10,000 steps, getting drinks with my girlfriends, or cuddling with my puppy haha! I love finding deals on flights and trying new recipes as well so, maybe meet me in a new country at a hole in the wall restaurant, and we can chat more.

6. What was the best advice a manager or mentor gave you?

S: The best piece of advice I’ve ever received came from my last manager. She said, “If you write that, why should I care? What draws me in? What’s in it for me? Trim the fat, get to the good stuff.” That’s always stayed with me because I think writers can get lost in wordiness. Also, one of my college professors told our class that if you can’t make your point in 40 words or less, you’re not worth the time. That’s definitely motivated me to get my point across boldly and succinctly.

7. What’s your favorite thing about living in a big city?

S: Where do I even begin! London has been a dream and I don’t think I can ever do suburbia again aha. Some of my favorite parts about living in the city include public transportation that works well, easy access to nightlife and entertainment, delicious foods on every corner, the amazing street style I see, and never feeling alone. I didn’t think I would be such a city gal, but here we are!

8. What are some goals you’ve set for yourself in 2017 (blogging and/or non-blogging related)?

S: Great question. Blogging wise, I definitely want to grow and be consistent in my writing. I’m starting a YouTube channel as well so I’d like that to be doing well by the end of 2017. “Doing well” to me means that I see growth. In a few years, I’d like to be able to just be blogging, but I know it takes time and consistency to get there. Non-blogging wise, I’d like to make the most of our time in Europe, really enjoy marriage, grow deeper in my personal time with God, make new friendships in unexpected places, and learn more about who I am and what I am passionate about.

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Isn’t Shruthi great? A huge thank you to her for such a fun collaboration! Be sure to connect with Shruthi on social (Insta/FB/YT) and follow along over at thehonestShruth.

Also, don’t forget about her post on Days By Day here. 🙂

Happy Thursday, friends! Stay tuned for another #Girlboss Gathering next month!