Chicago native Shaneen Murray is a multifaceted journalist, marketing professional, and brand new author with the release of her new book for young adult women, The Girl Code Rules of Engagement.
Having worked in various facets of the entertainment industry since her college days, from modeling to writing news for Fox 32 Chicago’s morning show, Murray has amassed quite the resume and is a proverbial Jane of all trades. Her vast array of knowledge and experiences allows her to bring a unique perspective to her storytelling, blending creativity and strategic insight in her work that young women will be able to relate to. Also a passionate advocate for her community, Shaneen actively volunteers in her sorority and church and channels her energy into empowering initiatives.
Murray says her book, just released last month, was initially going to be about womanhood experiences that other women can relate to, but then a light bulb went off, and she was inspired to focus on younger adult women specifically.
“Five years ago, I got the idea to write a book and share my personal experiences in womanhood with other women who can relate”, Murray remembers. “It wasn’t until that light bulb moment hit me that I knew I should share my journey with young adult females to save them from making the same mistakes that I, and many other women, have made, like a mentor in a book. It is my sincere hope my book helps young women who are on the journey into womanhood.”
N’DIGO recently sat down with Murray to discuss all things Shaneen and her empowering new book, The Girl Code Rules of Engagement.
N’DIGO: In your own words, who is Shaneen Murray?
Shaneen Murray: Shaneen Murray shines from the inside out. She is both gentle and fierce. She is a leader as well as a teammate. Shaneen is bold yet cautious. She inspires others to be their best, she is inspired by others at their best, and she aspires always to be her best. She’s one of the real ones. An OG. She is resilient. Shaneen Murray is a Chicago gem.
As a child, what did you dream of doing for a living?
I just knew I was going to be an Entertainment Lawyer. I studied criminal justice in college.
What is an accomplishment that you are especially proud of?
Writing and publishing my first book!
Speaking of which, please tell us about your recently released book, The Girl Code Rules of Engagement.
In The Girl Code Rules of Engagement, I invite readers on an exhilarating journey through the complexities of young adulthood, exploring themes of self-discovery, friendship, personal growth, and empowerment through relatable characters and engaging narratives. Within the pages of my book, I aim to inspire and uplift young women, offering a blend of entertainment and thought-provoking insights about the unspoken rules of womanhood.
What inspired you to write the book?
Originally, I started writing a bachelorette guide for single women my age, but the stories weren’t quite landing because, you know, it’s hard to teach grown folks what they already know. Then, one day, I was bouncing ideas off one of my mentors, who has three teen girls, and he said my content would be excellent for them. It was a “light bulb moment” for me, and I knew I had a real story to tell. As a young adult, I didn’t always listen to my parents or make the best choices. Today, I want young women to know there are some situations in life that are universal to all women; we can all relate to one another. I want to share tips on how to navigate womanhood and avoid making those same mistakes. I call it a mentor-in-a-book.
What would you like readers to take away from the book?
Character development. I want my readers to remember to always lead with the best version of themselves in every area of life. I want them to embrace the power of female friendships, appreciate the nuances of growing up, and feel inspired to embrace authenticity throughout their journey into womanhood. There is a lesson that comes with each experience we have, good or bad, I want my readers to understand this and use their emotional intelligence to identify those lessons, learn from them, and be better because of them.
Having to juggle your work and various projects and real life and everything else, how do you maintain your mental health and/or self-care?
I try not to stress about anything, if for no other reason than for health, because stress kills. So, I’m learning to listen to my body and identify when I’m feeling burnt out or overwhelmed. When I am, I take a step back and retreat to check in with Shaneen. Also, I remind myself to trust the process, and I stay prayed up with my armor on to provide me with the peace I need to face it all.
Can you name three of your favorite books that mean the most to you?
• Around 1996, I stumbled across Preconceived Notions, written by Robyn Williams; it belonged to a friend’s mom. The book is centered around a beautiful college journalism student who falls madly in love with a dashingly handsome football player. I was fresh out of high school, so it was intriguing. I wanted to be Imagany Renfroe… she’s actually a code name of mine sometimes, lol.
• Thick Face, Black Heart by Chu Chin-Ning. My homeboy Tytus recommended it many years ago, and it’s one I go back to periodically for wisdom and gems about mental toughness and how to be the victor, not the victim.
• Of course, my new book, my labor of love, The Girl Code Rules of Engagement, is available now on Amazon and Kindle (shameless plug). I was very vulnerable and transparent. My book is raw, no fluff. It’s a literary gem that resonates beyond the last page.
What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?
I am a gadget girl, an As Seen On TV girl… I have all types of makers – omelet makers, bread makers, waffle cone makers, waffle makers, Twinkie makers, and more. It’s out of control, lol!
Best advice to aspiring writers?
Don’t rush the process, but also, when you think your manuscript or project is complete, edit it once and have another editor review it, and hit publish when it’s ready; the more you proofread, the more edits you’ll find and it will drive you mad lol; For aspiring authors specifically, I would say unless you have stellar graphic design skills, please get a professional to design your book cover and format your pages, it simply looks better and more polished.
Favorite quote or affirmation?
“Never measure God’s unlimited power by your limited expectations” ~ Author Unknown
What’s next for Shaneen Murray?
Shaneen Murray has plans to take over the world! Seriously, I’m going to continue promoting my new book with the hopes of partnering with various schools and organizations to host workshops that are relevant to my book for young adult females. I have my podcast, The Savvy News Chic and I have lots to talk about, so new episodes are coming soon; look out for that. I am also the Project Manager for Property Rehab Specialists, a small Black-owned construction company; we specialize in commercial properties if anyone out there is looking for a builder… And I have some other projects up my pretty little sleeve that shall remain under wraps for now.
For more information on Shaneen Murray and The Girl Code Rules of Engagement, please connect with Shaneen on Instagram: @shaneenem
