Reflections on My One-Week DC Residency
It’s Okay to Skip Things
There’s always pressure to attend every event, meeting, and dinner, but here's the secret: you don’t have to go to everything. And even when you do, it's perfectly fine to leave early. Your time and energy are precious—save them for the moments that truly matter.
Washington, DC has always held a special place in my heart. There's something about the city—the people, the history, the pace, the sense of purpose—that keeps drawing me back.
I'm no stranger to the DMV. In 2010, I had my first real experience living and working in DC. I had a job and an apartment in the district, but the reality of being a mother to a seven-year-old meant my heart was really back home. Every weekend, I’d find myself racing to New York, trying to make up for the time lost during the week. I wasn’t truly living in the city; I was passing through, with my energy split between career and family responsibilities. Still, I managed to create something meaningful—a dinner club of women that met monthly, a group that remains close friends to this day. (Hey ladies!)
Fast forward to 2018, I returned to the DC area, this time more permanently—or so I thought. But my work had me on the road constantly, and DC became more of a pit stop than a home base. When I wasn’t traveling, I was recovering from the constant motion, with little time or energy to explore or immerse myself in the city’s rhythm. I promised myself that when the time was right, I’d slow down and finally enjoy everything DC had to offer.
That time, I thought, would be in 2020. I resolved to be more intentional about my downtime and social life, to travel less. But like the rest of the world, those plans were put on hold when COVID-19 hit. So, I retreated to my beach house and created a beautiful life in Charleston, close to family.
Now here I am in 2024, finally able to give DC the attention it deserves—this time during a week-long residency perfectly timed with the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) Annual Legislative Conference, also known as CBC Week. The city was buzzing with energy. Although I didn’t arrive with invitations to every event, my dance card quickly filled up.
It was a week full of reunions, new connections, and a renewed appreciation for what it means to be in the heart of Washington, DC.
But beyond the professional and social highlights, this residency offered an opportunity to reflect and learn a few things about myself. Here are some key takeaways from my DC experience:
I Need My Space (Literally and Figuratively)
Quiet mornings have become essential for me. I need a space that allows me to ease into the day at my own pace. Whether it’s a spacious apartment or a cozy corner for my morning coffee, that solitude is non-negotiable.Stairs Are My Nemesis
I may not be old, but after countless trips lugging bags up and down stairs, I’ve had enough. Elevators are now my best friends.It’s Okay to Skip Things
There’s always pressure to attend every event, meeting, and dinner, but here's the secret: you don’t have to go to everything. And even when you do, it's perfectly fine to leave early. Your time and energy are precious—save them for the moments that truly matter.Stay Ready So You Don’t Have to Get Ready
Even without an invitation in hand, always be prepared. Overpacking has its downsides, but being agile and ready for last-minute opportunities can be worth the extra weight in your suitcase.
Despite all the highlights, I couldn’t see everyone I wanted to during this residency. That's the reality of having a wide circle of true friends and family in DC. But I’ll be back soon and will make time to connect with them next time.
All in all, it was a great week! Now, I’m ready for my own bed and a few quiet weeks at home before gearing up for the next adventure.
Until next time, DC!
#CuriousLeilani #GiantSteps #GiantStepsLLC #CBCALF #DowellDoGood #GoodMondayMorning