On March 29th, 2025, I had the pleasure of being surrounded by good company and vibes as we joined together for the book launch of “Vision Over Everything” by Ariyal Fabre Lewis, Esq. Throughout the event, we discovered that “Vision Over Everything” contained gems about the power of vision, the faith factor, the action blueprint, how to maintain momentum, and how to align with your purpose. I had the pleasure to catch up with Ariyal about the sparks that motivated her to write her journey, the overall lessons learned in life & business, and the affirmations that keep her striving.
What motivated you to write “Vision Over Everything”? How was the writing process for you with this book and your journey?
AFL: “What motivated me to write Vision Over Everything was the fulfillment of the visions I wrote for myself back in 2008 to become an attorney, wife, and mother. Once I realized that those visions had all come to pass, I knew it was time to write the book that had been on my heart for years. I’ve always wanted to be an author. In January 2024, once my children were a bit older and more independent, I began writing and by December, the manuscript was complete. The process was fulfilling and purposeful. I truly believe that God gave me the idea to write down those visions not just for myself, but so I could one day help others. Writing this book was an act of obedience more than motivation. It wasn’t something I could just shake off or put down. There was a constant pull, like a divine cord tugging at me all year long. I was fully immersed. Locked in. God called me to write it, and I couldn’t stop. It poured out of me with urgency and purpose.”
What did you want to be as a child? What sparked you as a child?
AFL: “As a child, I always wanted to be an attorney and an author. Watching Perry Mason with my mother sparked my interest in law. I admired how he used strategy and intellect to defend his clients. At the same time, I loved books. My mom regularly took me to the library and made sure we had plenty of books at home. Writing came naturally to me, and I spent time journaling, writing poems, and putting my thoughts on paper. I explored a lot of creative interests growing up, but becoming an attorney and an author always stayed with me.”
What was the best business or personal advice you received when you were starting out in your personal brand and business?
AFL: “One of the best pieces of advice I received was: “Done is better than perfect.” As someone who tends to be a perfectionist, that reminder helped me take action without overthinking. The more I moved forward, the more clarity and confidence I gained.”
Tell us 3 fun facts that a lot of people don’t know about you.
- I’m a foodie and I love fine dining.
- I’m a passionate traveler and have visited many countries.
- Both of my children were born during the pandemic.
As a businesswoman, mother, wife, author, attorney, and entrepreneur, how do you maintain and balance work and personal life in all your life roles?
AFL: “Time management and prioritization are everything. I tackle the most important or difficult tasks first. I make time daily for my husband and children whether that’s school pickups, bedtime routines, or date nights. I focus on what matters most and remain present in every role.”
Name the biggest overall lesson you’ve learned in running a personal brand/business.
AFL: “One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that you have to be relentless in the pursuit of your vision. Sometimes the support you expect doesn’t come…not because people don’t believe in you, but because they’re quietly trying to imitate you. They’ll act like they don’t see you so they can pretend they were already doing it or had always been thinking about it as if your work had nothing to do with their actions. But what God gave you is yours, and no one can replicate your calling, your voice, or your timing. I’ve had mentors tell me they’ve experienced the same thing—and that the people who tried to copy them didn’t last in business. That reminder has encouraged me to stay focused, continue to walk in my authenticity, and trust that longevity comes from alignment, not imitation.”
In times of self-doubt and adversity, how do you build yourself back up?
AFL: “I spend time with God through prayer and journaling. I speak life over myself, repeat affirmations, and embrace solitude to reconnect with my purpose. I remind myself of the promises over my life and push forward with faith and resilience.”
Name your greatest success (or something you’re most proud of) in your business experience.
AFL: “Becoming an attorney and graduating at the top of my class is one of my proudest achievements. More recently, I’m incredibly proud of stepping into my next level; sharing my story and launching my brand and book to help others unlock their vision.”
What are your hobbies and favorite scriptures/affirmations that keep you going?
AFL: I love to write, journal, plan, and express myself through poetry. Some of my favorite scriptures and affirmations include:
- “I am more than a conqueror.” (Romans 8:37)
- “If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move,’ and it will move.” (Matthew 17:20)
- “Vision over everything.”
We all have 24 hours. If you were given 3 magic extra hours for the day, how would you spend them?
AFL: “I’d spend those three extra hours with my family, engaging in self-care, resting, and simply enjoying peace.”
About Ariyal Fabre Lewis Esq.
Ariyal Fabre Lewis Esq. is a trailblazing visionary, accomplished attorney, dynamic speaker, and published author. Renowned for her creativity and insight, she has hosted numerous events, passionately educating and empowering her community. As the founder of “Vision Over Everything”, a transformative platform dedicated to helping individuals clarify and activate their God-given vision, Ariyal equips people with the tools to align faith and works with their vision to achieve extraordinary success.
Her mission transcends traditional goal-setting. She redefines it as a journey of profound self-discovery and intentional growth. Her book, Vision Over Everything: How to Align Your Vision, Faith, and Works to Unlock Your Fullest Potential, provides a roadmap for unlocking potential, overcoming obstacles, and stepping boldly into one’s purpose.
In addition to her entrepreneurial endeavors, Ariyal is the founder and president of Pearls of Power, Inc., a youth organization dedicated to uplifting preteen and teen girls, equipping them with confidence and purpose for success.
A proud alumna of Covington High School in Louisiana, Ariyal earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Louisiana State University in 2005. She furthered her education at Southern University Law Center, graduating in 2012.
At home, she cherishes life with her loving and supportive husband, Paul, their two wonderful children, Paulina and Paul Jr., and her beloved stepchildren, Alexandria, Abigayle, and Paul II. Together, they embody her core values of unity, resilience, and ambition; building a legacy of faith, purpose, and impact.
Instagram: @vision_over_everything and @layira_speaks
Facebook: Vision OVER Everything and Layira Speaks
LinkedIn: Ariyal Fabre Lewis




