GRATITUDE MONDAY WITH LESLIE BRISCOE

Do you consider the "no's" a praise?
“Many Thanx” 

I came across this story on a blog I was reading Monday in between meetings and reports. It caught my attention because I keep a prayer journal in which I write prayer requests from friends and family and in this article the author shared her way of tracking her prayer requests – she uses a key ring and laminated tags to write each request. I liked the idea of because it’s portable and it’s probably easier to find the prayers vs. me going thru pages and pages of my journal. Anyway – her blog made me think also about how we must learn to truly recognize God’s presence in our lives when He doesn’t seem to be answering our prayers and the importance of tracking the no’s. Below is a portion of her blog:

Whenever I consider a prayer answered, I write PRAISE on the tag and physically move that tag to the front. Seeing all those praise tags each time I move a new one has been a huge faith builder in my life.
One day, however, I realized I was writing PRAISE only when God said YES to my request. For example: “New job for my husband.” PRAISE! I moved that baby to the front when he accepted his new job. But what about all those tags still left hanging, with no praise? I felt God asking me to go deeper with Him. I felt Him asking me to consider His NO’s as answered prayers as well. That is when I began to trace my NO’s from the Lord.
One of the first NO’s my children will learn about in our faith journal happened a long time ago, but it’s a big one. The summer after my junior year in college, I applied to be a summer orientation leader. I thought I was a shoo-in for this position. I LOVED my school and I am pretty perky, if I do say so myself. Well, they clearly did not want my kind of perky representing their school to incoming freshman. I didn’t get in, and I have to admit, it was a serious blow to my ego at the time. So, I had to figure out alternate plans for that summer and I ended up with a demanding internship instead. Now, here’s where it gets interesting.
The following year, I started interviewing for my first job out of college. I applied for a position with a prestigious consulting firm in New York City and I was considered a candidate for the job only because of this specific internship experience. Simply put, I got the job…and guess where I met my husband? That’s right — at that firm in NYC! I could literally trace it all back to God saying NO to the orientation leader position at my college.
God said NO, but only because He wanted to lead me to the love of my life, the single most important blessing I’ve ever received, and the reason I have the privilege of a family to teach about faith!

I share this with you today because I think that once each of us begins looking at God’s no’s in our life, we will find example after example of how He led us to better things. We just have to track them. God’s no’s are another way in which God expresses his overwhelming love for us. Can you imagine how powerful this tool will be if we use it to witness to our kids, friends and family when they come to us with what seems like an unanswered prayer? The goal is that they will learn from us that God is always there and always working in our best interest – always causing everything to work together for good. 

Words of wisdom

- Leslie

Read More:

Faith Vs. Hope

Connect with Leslie:

Instagram: leslierenee12
Facebook: leslie renee thomas briscoe
Linked In: leslie renee briscoe

Photo Credit: Hummingbirdsplus.org

STARTING OVER WITH SHYREETA

Self Reliance Vs. Self Dependency

Have I become the people that hurt me?

Everyone has been plagued by hurt at one time or many times. But I'm here to show you how to become emotionally self-reliant and to no longer be emotionally dependent.

First I want to ask you do any one of these questions apply to you:

Are you looking for a romantic partner to make you happy?

If you have a partner, do you look to this person for love, for sex, for support, for reassurance, for validation?

Are you upset if your partner doesn’t react in a certain way, doesn’t meet a need?

When you’re alone, do you feel the need to fill the loneliness void with distraction? 

Are you always on your phone when you’re alone?

Do you complain a lot about other people? Get mad because of things they do?

Is your relationship the center of your universe?

What about your relationship with friends or your kids?

Do you get bothered if your partner does something that doesn’t include you, or cuts out something that you’ve been doing together? 

Do you need to be acknowledged for certain things that you do?

Usually this way of thinking starts in childhood. We rely on our parents for our emotional needs — love, comfort, support, validation, etc. And we don’t often develop emotional self-reliance skills as kids, because parents (out of love for us) do their best to provide for all these needs.

Then we become adults, without having learned emotional self-reliance. And so we look for someone else to fill our emotional needs. We look for the perfect partner, and will probably go through a few breakups, because 1) we’re not emotionally independent, and so we do needy things that hurt a relationship, and 2) our partner is probably the same way.

If we’re ever hurt, we blame the other person for hurting us. If they aren’t there for us, we blame them. If something bad happens to us, we become victims, because you can’t move on with your life if someone has done something bad to you, right?

However, there is a solution.

We have to learn this: Happiness is not outside ourselves.

Here's some example to practice while on your journey to self-reliance:

Sit by yourself, without a device or distraction, for a few minutes. Look inside of you. Notice your thoughts as they come up. Get to know your mind. See how fascinating it is. This in itself is an endless source of learning of oneself.

One of my sources of happiness is creating, coming up with ideas, producing something, and later presenting it to a group of friends or family. This gives me happiness, and a sense of accomplishment.

Learn to fix your own problems and not complain. If you complain, have a solution. If you are bored, try to fix it or at least try. 

If you are lonely or hurt, comfort yourself. It's easier to comfort others and harder to confront our own hurt.

If you lack attention or feeling love, don’t hope that someone will reassure you … reassure yourself. 

Take responsibility. If you find yourself blaming others, tell yourself that the other person is never the problem. Of course, it's easier to believe that the other person is the problem, but then you are reliant on them for the solution. If you believe that they aren’t the problem, then you look inside yourself for the solution.

If you find yourself complaining, instead find a way to be grateful for the simple things. 

If you find yourself being needy, instead find a way to give. 

If you find yourself wanting someone to help you, take the first step at helping yourself.

Create your own source of built-in happiness. Walk around as a whole, happy person, needing nothing as you have already provided the sources of love, attention, and the ability to pick yourself up when in a slump.

Remember: Practice Makes Perfect!

Connect with Shyreeta:

Website: www.ibrandmatchmaker.com

Instagram: Shyreeta_shops4u

Facebook: Shyreeta Benbow

Linked In: Shyreeta Benbow

Photo Credit: Rich Cruse

MEET JOYCE BONE

New View with Joyce Bone

TDR:  What issues are you most passionate about in your community?    

Joyce: Personal transformation. I am passionate about helping others reach their peak potential.

TDR: What are most of your philanthropy efforts typically directed towards serving?

Joyce: Women and youth. I coach these two groups extensively via my own programs as well as contributing time to others.

TDR:  How do you define leadership?    

Joyce: Being willing to step up, lead in a collaborative, relational style, while getting work done and having personal responsibility for outcomes.

TDR:  How do you define your leadership style?

Joyce: Relational, enthusiastic, collaborative, and frank.

TDR:  What would be the most painful lesson that you've learned in life that has helped you become who you are today?

Joyce: The most painful lesson that I've learned in life that has helped me become who I am today: That life is short. There is no reason good enough not to go after what your heart desires most.

TDR:  What would people be surprised to know that you had to overcome?

Joyce: A lot! Financial stress, relationship stress, sexual abuse, addiction, deaths. People look at me and think I have it easy. This has never been the case. I have always worked really hard and forced myself to bounce back in difficult times.

TDR:  Name 3 leaders that you look up to. 

Joyce: My dad, Raymond Cash (late mentor and business partner), and the late Wayne Dyer.

TDR:  Name 3 of your favorite books.

Joyce: I read all the time. It would be hard for me to pinpoint 3 favorites. The Four Agreements helped me relationally. Brian Tracy's work is always good and of course my own book was a labor of love, and in my humble opinion, a great book, Millionaire Moms: The Art of Raising a Family and a Business at the Same Time.

TDR:  What is your advice for emerging leaders?

Joyce: Get busy. Take action and use the feedback to adjust until you succeed.

TDR:  Complete this sentence…5 years ago I was…

Joyce: In a tough place. My brother and father just died.

TDR:  Complete this sentence…5 years from now I hope to be…

Joyce: Feeling like all the decades of effort had led up to that time of my life. That I will be able to look around satisfied by where I am at: my family and business flourishing, and my health strong enjoying the fruits of my labor.

TDR:  If you could describe yourself in one word, what would it be and why?

Joyce: Tough. Because I am resilient.

TDR: What are some of your current initiatives people can help you with? 

Joyce: I am building my coaching practice so am always looking for ways to be better and to serve more people. Any influence in those two areas are always appreciated.

Connect with Joyce

Facebook: Joyce Bone (Professional Page)
Joyce Grimes Bone (Personal Page)
Linkedin: Joyce Bone
Instagram: Joyce_Bone
Twitter joycebone
Pintrest: Joyce Bone
Periscope: Joyce Bone

Did this inspire you? What are your thoughts? Please share feedback for this Servant Leader below. Sometimes your words can trigger a thought that could change a life. We love hearing from you. Please share this with others if it helped you or could help someone else. Be sure to connect with this Servant Leader below. We will check the comments box often. :) 

GRATITUDE MONDAY WITH LESLIE BRISCOE

Faith vs. Hope
“Many Thanx” 

I’ve been thinking a lot of about hope and faith – both are wonderful qualities to possess and you hear them used hand in hand, but the more I live this life, I am realizing that having hope without faith = NOTHING. We don’t seem to have an issue “hoping” but we do seem to struggle with the “faith part. To clarify the differences read the definitions of each:

HOPE = a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen, an aspiration, wish, ambition, aim, goal or plan; a want for something or someone to happen

FAITH = when you come to the edge of all the light you have known and are about to step out into the darkness, FAITH is knowing one of two things will happen-there will be something to stand on or you will be taught how to fly

Let’s look at it another way – hope, while admirable, can be anxiety producing – you are waiting for “it” to come, to happen, to materialize. This often leaves us approaching life from a position of lack; scraping, pining and striving towards our goal. Waiting without control and living in our past or future. But then there is faith – faith is calm and comforting. It’s peaceful and safe and empowering. Faith allows us to “be” instead of “do”. Faith is knowing all is well – the confidence and assurance that God will bring all to pass, AND for our good!
It is both empowering and freeing to feel unattached to the outcome of our issues, our worries and concerns because we have the safety of faith. This doesn’t mean we don’t still create and work towards our collectives goals, work hard, pray and focus; but it does mean that we can release the need for control, lack of sleep, worry and anxiety because we have our faith – a deep sense of knowing that no matter what – He’s got us and everything in our lives is exactly as it is supposed to be. 

4 things to remember about our faith:
• Our faith must be tested
• Faith develops perseverance and patience
• You will use your gifts to the measure of your faith
• Your level of faith will determine the next assignment God gives you

“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see”, Hebrews 11:1

Words of wisdom

–Leslie

Connect with Leslie:

Instagram: leslierenee12
Facebook: leslie renee thomas briscoe
Linked In: leslie renee briscoe

Photo Credit: Hummingbirdsplus.org

MEET MELODY JOY

New View Melody Joy

TDR: What issues are you most passionate about in your community?
Melody: There are several issues. One being ladies (young and older) pregnant outside of wedlock. I'm concerned about their self-esteem, mindsets, tangible resources and them not getting stuck depending on the "system" or the child's father (where there's a challenge in shared parenting). Another issue that pulls at my heart is "sister on sister" crime. What I mean by that is that women have the tendency to be more in competition than in covenant with one another. Too much time is spent fighting one another versus the issues that surround us. Women are dying daily from cervical and ovarian cancers, lupus, domestic violence and the #1 killer, heart disease. It's not poverty that bothers me as others spend time on. Poverty is a mindset and a mindset results in actions and actions become a way of life. Poverty can be the environment that you accept. Perhaps Poverty is the lack of knowledge and exercised power; doesn't have to be money per say. If we could see beyond the lashes and facial contouring we would see that the woman next to us needs you as much as we need the air we breathe. I also believe that this would help society also where the increases in pregnancy and system dependency is concerned. The examples of strong selfless women is affected as much as the economical concerns of this world. People always say knowledge is power. That's actually incorrect; it's what you do with knowledge that is more powerful. I believe that we have become less powerful by what we choose to do with the knowledge that we have. But there are some Power Houses out there that are working tirelessly to turn these SHIPS around in the community. By Ships I mean friendSHIP, relationSHIP, financial stewardSHIP and leaderSHIP.

TDR: Most of my philanthropy efforts are typically directed towards serving…
Melody: Most of my philanthropy efforts are typically directed towards serving both men and women in practical teachings, experiential demonstrations and skills and financial development. Why? I'm glad you asked. People want to know what and how. I include men because many have been shaped by women. Especially those emerging from single parent homes. A male is more prone to protect, provide and persevere based on how he was shaped and defined. Based on how he was molded, that can better him or break him. Men are territorial and visual so being able to reaffirm their original design and empower them to lead makes it a lot easier for the world we live in. Women are naturally nurtures, so it's important to love them back to life and make sure that other male figures are equally involved in affirming and cultivating their dominion in the earth. I make it a priority to make the male feel included in change efforts and in future endeavors and I started that with my own brothers, male family members and friends. It's important that they feel necessary and desired. I also find joy and pleasure in bridging practical with spiritual with women in education, affirmations, friendship, skills development and self-actualization. Everybody needs to feel loved and that they belong and are necessary. People don't need us being deep just be relevant; they just want directions, instructions, strategies, time redeemed and resources (including finances). Those are the five keys I ask God for daily help with along with discernment. Everyone's needs and responses are different. These are the keys I use to give back because they were the keys I wish I had a long time ago.

TDR: I define leadership as...
Melody: I define leadership in two ways. I define leadership as being able and willing to reproduce greater than yourself. One must be influential, integral and intentional. Not perfect but always perfecting. I also define leadership as not being above apology and you definitely can't be beneath serving. None are perfect but purposed.

TDR: I would describe my leadership style as…
Melody: I would describe my leadership style as Transformational and Invasive. (Inserts chuckle). I have to laugh to smooth it over. The reason why I say transformational is because if there is no need for change then why lead? In fact, why are we even talking! I am one who is not afraid of change. Change is inevitable. I welcome change. Creation is a risk. I'm creative. That automatically makes me high risk. It may work and it may not. But if what you've been doing and/or saying isn't working, then change might be a good thing. If it doesn't work you're always welcomed to return from where you started. People want change they are just afraid of losing their control and comfort. I was once that person and still have to fight not be. Every now and then I run into control issues. There again change is risky and makes you vulnerable. Which taps into your trust factor. Which is where the invasive part of leading comes in. It's invasive because it requires taping into the guarded places which sometimes hurt but with the right person and right amount of time, those places heal. Now you're stronger, wiser and whole. Those are typically the places that are fighting to hold on but dying to let go. I love getting to the root of who, what, when, where, why and how. It's the same approach that I use to create the160 degrees turn that turns our entire world inside out. Leading requires me to know something about you. It helps to tailor a person's course and action plan. Changed people effect change. Nothing is cookie cutter about me. I'm not trendy, I'm a threat to complacency and since I've come to know and embrace that, I want people to see themselves the same way; embrace it and dominate in it. 

Speaking of transformation. I have been going through transformation all of 2015. I started with my hair color and cut and surroundings earlier 2015. My transformation was sealed and confirmed on December 20th with a Power Shoot makeover with Tierra Destiny and the Power Squad. I was challenged then to relinquish control and allow her and others into my private. I fought not to say "I rather have this color" or "Make sure my hair does this". I just sat and received. That's hard for leaders and givers to do. It changed my life forever. After that day I left feeling refreshed, empowered, my path was re-confirmed and I never saw myself the same way again. It re-challenged me to think higher and to do more for myself so that I have more to offer. When we feel great you do great. That day I choose that what I wanted others to experience I had to part take first myself. You see it's hard to lead people to a place where you've not gone yourself. I'm very picky about my hair, my nails, my image! It had been years since I sat and let someone else do my hair. Go to a salon?! Not me! One, I couldn't afford it. So, I don't just talk about transformation- I live, I am Living transformation. Once you've experienced the joy and freedom that transformation brings, all of the changes and challenges will be well worth the leap. I never want to be the leader to lead people based on words but I want to lead people based off exposure and encounter. In the words of Rod Lumpkin, "Exposure is the greatest teacher". I won't just tell people about transformation or change, I'll expose them to it just as someone did for me. Just call me the Transformation Whisperer.

TDR: The most painful lesson that I've learned in life that has helped me become who I am today…
Melody: (Deep inhale...exhale) I have had a lot of lessons. The most recent ones would be "You can't wait on everyone and you must let go of someone". I was always wanting to prove myself. If you said I couldn't have it, I went for it. If you said I couldn't go, I went. If you said I wasn't, I showed you I was and would be" and so on. You get what I am saying? It's a blessing and a curse to have that mindset. Sometimes you don't know when and when not to. I was the one that wanted everybody to excel, go up and celebrate me and with me. BOY was I wrong. I lost so much including time trying to take people with me and THEN expecting them to celebrate with me let alone CELEBRATE ME. What I wasn't bold enough to detach away from, was cut away from me. God knew when I was too blind to see for myself that everybody that was around me wasn't for me. To this day, I am selective in my connections. They aren't all bad. I now seek to know if they are assigned to derail me or to excel me. Who I am today is a result of choosing to go for me and celebrate me. It doesn't mean that anybody is a bad person it just means it's not a good idea for me to remain idle while waiting for others to get my greatness, validate my victories or support my successes. 

Another painful lesson was becoming pregnant at 17 and a mother at age18. I knew then that I was no longer responsible for just myself. I sat in an abortion clinic contemplating responsibility. As I was notifying the nurse that I change my mind, the clinician was coming out the other door to get me to take me back for the procedure. I swallowed hard and decided to keep and raise my baby. I had no idea how, "I did it afraid". There were days when I fed my daughter and I would "fast". Might as well call it that, LOL. If I was not going to eat I needed to make the best out of it. So I would pray and sleep. I never let my daughter see me sweat (so I thought). But it’s the lessons from the school of hard knocks that pushes me to tell others that knowing I wasn't just responsible for me made me work harder. It's the same way to this day, when it comes to being a servant leader, it's not about you. It took me some tears to learn that one! You become responsible for the welfare and progression of others. Life lessons? Oh they work together for you good and for those who are called and purposed. You're a trusted leader; a wounded healer and a covenant keeper. Knowing that I am trusted with the hearts, passions and lives of others has made me grateful to be who I am today. I am more sensitive, grateful, thoughtful, wiser, powerful, careful, stronger, intuitive and determined. You may not know all the how's and what's but just "Do it afraid" someone else's life depends on you.
TDR: People would be surprised to know that I had to overcome…
Melody: Feeling inadequate and attractively challenged (As my brother calls ugly). It was all based on a rumor and lie (that's what I call it now). It wasn't until I got older and started doing something I had never done and that was compare myself to others. Some small voice in my ear telling me that since I took so long to develop that I wasn't cute enough. I was skiiiinnty! So if a male showed me attention contrary to how I felt, I thought it was gold. More like fool's gold [now that I am older]. 

I also had to overcome depression and oppression. I didn't want to do, go or be anything. I actually had written a note to my mother and had subliminal conversations with my best friend about them taking care of my daughter. I didn't think suicide; I just no longer wanted to be responsible for anyone, including myself. I had no desire to move forward and no reason to fall backwards; I was going to wait to die. Having to scrape pennies just to buy toilet tissue for the house; getting condiments from Chic fil A or McDonald's to have at home to go on the food or eating half of my lunch that was catered at work so that I could take some home to feed my daughter. I was also homeless in 2012 as I left my child with my mom in Atlanta as I pursued work in another state. I would send money back to my child so that she could have and I would sleep in my car because all that I had had run out and I would drive to Atlanta on weekends to see my child. Lastly, I didn't like people growing up and that I cried any time I had to speak publicly (Easter speech, in class, sing at church) you name it...I CRIED! Now! I love people and a good presentation. I was born for this.

TDR: 3 leaders that I look up to are…
Melody: I can only pick 3!? So not fair (inserts chuckle). 
~Muhammad Ali (I admire the fighter in him; his will to excel and stand for what he believed in)
~Oprah Winfrey (she's a game changer; and she re-wrote the rules. She's got her OWN (inserts loud laugh)
~John C. Maxwell (Maximizes Leadership and more)

TDR: 3 of my favorite books are…
Melody: The Bible (particularly Hosea, Proverbs, Psalm and Esther)
Talent is Never Enough by John C. Maxwell
Image of Excellence: A Treasury of Wisdom & Inspiration for Today's Businesswoman by Honor Books

TDR: What is your advice for emerging leaders?
Melody: “Become it". I would say practice now what you want to exemplify. Don't stop trying. Stay humble and honest with yourself. Operate in your lane and capacity. Trust your gifts, God and your gut feeling. You can't do "IT" alone. It's ok to look back only if reflecting on how far you've come but remain relevant and forward focused. Anything that you need isn't behind you it's in front of you. Don't be afraid to say I apologize, I need you and NO! Pride is the number one killer to success, not trying is the second. I was told by Pastor Rod Lumpkin who I admire his tenacity and keenness in leadership "You have to walk in a thing before you become it". Remember that you haven't lived until you have first learned to breathe. Move from just existing and start living. If you encounter a blow, tend to the wound. If you encounter a blessing celebrate the win. Stay balanced and refreshed. You can't lead without learning and you can't learn without being lead. Sharpen your craft and skills. Being good at something is still average. You were chosen to excel. Don't apologize for being authentic and you were created for whatever you put your hands to do. Know that there are more people counting on you than those who have counted you out. Be nothing less than great. If you aren't sure do it anyway, do it afraid! There's so much to see and do. I would say as far as you can see you can have; there's a New View and you can't be afraid of seeing for the first time. We've all been there.

TDR: 5 years ago I was…
Melody: Five years ago I was filing for Unemployment and Systematic assistance; a full time student and single mom while pursuing my degree in Counseling. Sometimes uncertain about life and the direction that I should be taking.

TDR: 5 years from now I hope to…
Melody: Five years from now I hope to have traveled to several different countries developing leaders, CEOs, men and women, teen moms and dads; owning several properties; fluent in a different language; creating jobs for people to help manage and partner in my dynasty; enjoying life, ministry, serving and business with the man of my purpose (not the man of my dreams; my dreams changed) (inserts laugh) and my child(ren).

TDR: If you could describe yourself in 1 one word, what would it be and why?    
Melody: Tenacious! I don't quit easily. I can't be counted out because someone is counting on me... to show up. #heelsUp (Her Excellence Excels Limitations & Statistics ~ Unapologetically Powerful). I'm not going back. I'd rather fail forward.

TDR: What are some of your current initiatives people can help you with?
Melody: Assist in creating platforms for emerging and excelling leaders, male and female, where we can share, instruct and equip others in their purpose and with their ideas. I want to see what's in their head be held in their hands and felt in their heart.

Continue to spread the word and generate resources to assist in research and financial support for those facing Lupus, Cervical/ Ovarian Cancer, Women & Heart Disease and Teen pregnancy and depression.

Finalizing my Blueprint for Platinum Platforms (unisex) and Stiletto Authority (female based); Vertical Building. As I continue to get what's in my head into my hands and into the lives of others.

Connect with Melody Joy:

Instagram: @stiletto_authority
Periscope: @melodyjoy_
Facebook: Melody Joy
LinkedIn: Melody France
Website: www.stilettoauthority.org
Twitter: @melodyjoy_

Did this inspire you? What are your thoughts? Please share feedback for this Servant Leader below. Sometimes your words can trigger a thought that could change a life. We love hearing from you. Please share this with others if it helped you or could help someone else. Be sure to connect with this Servant Leader below. We will check the comments box often. :) 

MEET SHANNON DENEAN

New View with Shannon Denean

TDR:  What issues are you most passionate about in your community?    

Shannon: In 2014, Atlanta was ranked the number 1 city for sex trafficking and the exploitation of women and children. From 2003 to 2007, the city of Atlanta generated more than $290 million dollars from the sale of trafficked human beings. As a woman who believes deeply in the power of women to change the world, I was heartbroken to learn about these staggering statistics. Since that time, I have helped with fundraising efforts to support women reclaiming their lives after having been in the trafficking system.

TDR: What are most of your philanthropy efforts typically directed towards serving?

Shannon: Most of my philanthropic efforts are directed towards serving women and children. I strongly believe that the powerful and systematic changes that the world needs all start with powerful women. My philanthropy efforts have all been focused on improving the lives of women by helping them to change their minds about their situations. Currently, I am serving with the Junior League of Atlanta, an organization whose mission is to improve the lives of women and children. I also serve on the Board of Directors with Sporty Girls, Inc., a non-profit focused on introducing non-traditional sports to minority girls and helping them to gain college scholarships through those sports.

TDR:  How do you define leadership?

Shannon: Leadership is the ability provide a vision of something better which inspires growth, change, and forward movement.

TDR:  How would you define your leadership style?

Shannon: When I was managing my team of insurance adjusters, I described my style as "macroleadership". I have always seen it as my job to present a vision of excellence, get the right people on board (people with skill, talent and drive), and give them the space to excel. As a leader, it’s my job to provide continued encouragement, the right environment, and the necessary equipment to help others exceed their potential.

TDR:  What would be the most painful lesson that you've learned in life that has helped you become who you are today?

Shannon: The most painful lesson that I've learned in life that has helped me become who I am today is that you're only as strong as the people who support you. You have to surround yourself with real, true support. I have definitely been hurt by people who didn't have my best interest at heart.

TDR:  What would people be surprised to know that you had to overcome?

Shannon: People would be surprised to know that I have had to overcome being sexually assaulted in college and a terribly difficult beginning to my marriage.

TDR:  Name 3 leaders that you look up to.     

Shannon: Sheryl Sandburg, Michelle Obama, and Sarah Batts

TDR:  Name 3 of your favorite books.

Shannon: The Devil Wears Prada by Lauren Wiesberger, Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert, and I Wish I Had a Red Dress by Pearl Cleage.

TDR:  What is your advice for emerging leaders?

Shannon: You cannot demand a premium for your value until you know what it is. Spend a considerable amount of your time learning about what makes you great and what makes you different.

TDR:  Complete this sentence…5 years ago I was…

Shannon: Trying to pick up the pieces of a very broken relationship, trying to discover who I was and working in a job I hated.

TDR:  Complete this sentence…5 years from now I hope to be…

Shannon: I hope to have a blossoming, profitable conglomerate consisting of several businesses. I hope to have learned Spanish fluently, have done more traveling, and have fulfilled my dream of being a top-tier DJ.

TDR:  If you could describe yourself in one word, what would it be and why?

Shannon: Tenacious.

TDR: What are some of your current initiatives people can help you with? 

Shannon: In January 2016, I will be presenting a T-shirt line whose profits will go to benefit the survivors of sex trafficking.

Connect with Shannon:

Facebook - www.facebook.com/shannon.denean
Twitter - @ShannonDenean
Periscope - @ShannonDenean

Website - www.LevelupConcepts.com

Did this inspire you? What are your thoughts? Please share feedback for this Servant Leader below. Sometimes your words can trigger a thought that could change a life. We love hearing from you. Please share this with others if it helped you or could help someone else. Be sure to connect with this Servant Leader below. We will check the comments box often. :) 

Meet Tanjuria Willis

Meet Power Mom Tanjuria Willis

Leadership and entrepreneurship is quintessential for Chicago native Tanjuria Willis. A graduate of North Carolina A&T State University with a degree in electrical engineering, Anderson worked at the prestigious Westinghouse Electric Corporation as Plant Systems Engineer in the nuclear division. Mrs. Willis migrated to Atlanta, Georgia to work as an IT Engineer traveling nationally to consult companies. As her job shifted and she began to travel less, Tanjuria decided to fill the void by creating The Catering Consultants firm was renamed to TCC Consultants, Inc. (TCC) – a service-oriented business, which located qualified chefs and caterers for small and large companies. After observing her clients needed additional services, she developed and started CONNECT Magazine, a general market action information publication providing a platform for consumers to learn about events, services and the pulse of the city. The publication debuted in 2005 at a tradeshow with a distribution of 500 copies which she created in a friend's apartment, printed at Kinko’s (now FedEx Office), assembled and stapled herself. After the first anniversary, the budding quarterly publication grew distribution to over 100 locations in metropolitan Atlanta including the Airports plus subscribers in 2 states. Within 24 months, CONNECT’s distribution has expanded to an astounding 30,000 copies per quarter in over 200 locations with subscribers in 8 states. In 2010, with the advent of the economy bust in 2008, she made the difficult decision to stop publishing CONNECT. Tanjuria recognized how people reorganized their priorities specifically in the fashion bespoke arena while also witnessing how the clothing that you wear really does drive your emotions. A simple dress can enhance your feeling to conquer the world. Being a lover of fashion, Tanjuria patiently watched as the masses, including herself, determined they loved the quality of luxury brands but it was not a budget priority. In 2013, putting her plan in to action. eKlozet.com, an online clothing and apparel company specializing in authentic luxury designer consignment. Her mission is to utilize fashions as a tool to show consumers how clothing can contribute to their success through the "If you look good, you do good” model providing them with quality name brand merchandise at more than half off the retail cost. She wants to promote self-confidence one outfit at a time.

TDR: Please tell us about your children and include their ages.    

TW: I am the blessed mother of a beautiful 2 year old daughter named Greer. She amazes me every day and already has a great fashion sense. She loves to sing, dance and take pictures. Her favorite song is the ABC song which she likes to sing even before going to bed. I want her to be well rounded so at 6 months we started playing Mandarin Chinese and Spanish DVD's. She also has 30 minutes of Spanish every day.

TDR: How are you balancing your passion with the responsibilities of parenthood?

TW: I believe in what I am doing and stay focused on the end goal. Parenthood has definitely helped me be a better steward of my time. Because my daughter is at such a young and impressionable age, I try to make sure that when she returns home from school that I am focused on her and family time until she goes to bed. I don't want her to ever feel that my computer and work is more important than she so I try to account for that in my calendar. I schedule the times that I will work, write, email, etc. My schedule starts with my waking up to meditate and workout prior to Greer waking in the morning. Next she wakes, prepares and leaves for school, then I take a half hour to write after which I start my work day, meetings, etc. Over lunch I read and answer emails, then I finish the general work day. After I pick Greer up from school, my work ends until she goes to bed. Once she is in bed and after dinner, I work for another 1-2 hours, then I take an hour to wind down before going to bed. I feel really blessed to be a mom. I focused on my career for a long time and wasn't sure I was cut out to be a mom until she came into this world. Having my daughter put everything in perspective. She is one of the best accomplishments in my life. That doesn't mean that I give up on my dreams. It means I learn tactics to have both in my life. I continue to grow and that's how I balance. I would be remiss if I didn't say that I couldn't do all of these without the support of my loving husband. He shares the responsibility which gives me the ability to focus on my passion.

TDR: What are some of your challenges and how do you work to overcome them?

TW: One of the largest challenges that I've worked to overcome is keeping the faith. Not because I don't believe in what I'm doing but many of us come from great families who believe that you go to college, get a good job and stay there until you retire. That fact that I would be an engineer and stop doing that to pursue an entrepreneurial endeavor was not understandable and viewed as a hobby and not truly supporting that passion. I continue to work to overcome the challenge by staying true to myself and my goals, by not letting someone else dictate my future and I continue to pray; not only for me but also for them. Along with the support from my husband, I continue to push forward.

TDR: What are 2 resources you use to help you stay motivated?

TW: When my daughter looks at me with those innocent eyes and tells me she loves me, I am instantly motivated to keep going. My husband is my rock and my biggest supporter. When I've had a challenging day, I can talk with him about it and he always offers perspective. The love that he gives makes me motivated to run the race.

TDR: What is your favorite way to pause?

TW: To unplug...no phone, no computer, just my family. To spend time with my family gives me great joy and allows me to focus my energy on something other than work. My other outlets are travel, work out and ride motorcycles, even though I stopped riding when I was expecting my daughter. I miss the peace that I used to feel being on the bike. I've been thinking about getting back on.

TDR: What has been the scariest moment or crossroad in your journey?

TW: When I decided that I would no longer publish Connect magazine but only for a moment. It was a tough decision and I struggled many a night. The most difficult was seeing something that you had nurtured for years at the end of its life cycle. The emotions that I felt were not that of a business person but were very personal including failure and defeat. What I would realize, once I started eKlozet.com was although it was the end of the CONNECT journey, I was starting a new journey. I used all those mistakes made and lessons learned along the way turning the scary moment in to a moment of discovery.

TDR: What would be your greatest advice to other "Power Moms" wanting to pursue their dreams?

TW: Make the decision to stop wanting to do but to get out there and do it. Only you can stop yourself from going after your dreams. Identify the milestones that you have to reach in order to pursue your dreams and tackle them one at a time. Don't allow your fears to dictate your outcome!

TDR: What word best describes the legacy you want to leave for your children and why?

TW: Growth because if my child grows in her learning, her knowledge, her business and everything she does, she will have the ability to manage and enhance the businesses that I pass to her. Her wealth would continue to grow as well.

TDR: How can others collaborate and support your mission?

TW: There are several ways to support us. 1) Share eKlozet.com with your network 2) Shop with eKlozet.com 3) Consign with eKlozet.com. When you consign you are recycling your goods which supports a green environment. 4) Engage by sharing your thought on our blog posts and signing up for our newsletter.

Connect with Tanjuria: 

Facebook.com/eklozet

Twitter - @eklozet

Instagram - @eklozet

LinkedIn - Tanjuria Willis

Pinterest - eKlozet

MEET VARIAN BRANDON

New View with Varian Brandon

TDR:  What issues are you most passionate about in your community?

Varian: Self-esteem of high achievers, Personal Power, Designing a life you love, and Being Intentional

TDR: What are most of your philanthropy efforts typically directed towards serving?

Varian: Education, but not necessarily formal education. I love contributing to and helping people acquire the necessary skills they need to live a full and fulfilled life. Many times our purposes are undiscovered because of lack of exposure and access.

TDR:  How do you define leadership?

Varian: Influence. I am an avid student of John Maxwell and I wholeheartedly agree that leadership is not a position or title, but one's ability to influence.

TDR:  How would you define your leadership style?

Varian:  Empowering. I believe everyone has the capacity to lead and my role as a leader is to inspire the leader within and then provide the tools and the coaching and the mentoring to cultivate and future.

TDR:  What would be the most painful lesson that you've learned in life that has helped you become who you are today?

Varian: That there is no real success without the ability to intimately connect with other people. I lived most of my life in very masculine energy (head/logic driven) and it served me well as it relates to my career success, but I paid a high price in my personal life. A broken marriage and I am still navigating the relationship with my adult son.  I am truly grateful for my path though because it invited me to take the journey from my head to my heart....and I accepted.  It was the longest journey I ever took, but I am oh so glad I did!! I am truly the better for it.

TDR:  What would people be surprised to know that you had to overcome?

Varian: Being emotionally disconnected and not really liking people. And until 4 years ago, biting my nails, which I believe was connected to the emotional disconnection.

TDR:  Name 3 leaders that you look up to. 

Varian: My mother, Oprah Winfrey, and Riva Tims

TDR:  Name 3 of your favorite books.

Varian: Hmmm, only 3.  Developing the Leader Within You, Lions Don’t Need to Roar, and The 4 Agreements
 

TDR:  What is your advice for emerging leaders?

Varian: Leadership is not what you do, it's who you are. Live your life in a way that people want to follow you. And know that leadership, real leadership is not compartmentalized, everything matters. And that leadership is a privilege.

TDR:  Complete this sentence…5 years ago I was…

Varian: I was in the breakdown of a marriage, a career I loved, but wasn't challenging and had taught me to be fearful and safe and in my comfort zone.

TDR:  Complete this sentence…5 years from now I hope to be…

Varian: Empowering women (and a few men) to lead their lives with urgency, to be intentional about the time they have on this planet. To be the main character in the best book they've ever read and to leave a legacy worthy of remark.

TDR:  If you could describe yourself in one word, what would it be and why?

Varian: Bold.  Because I have always been comfortable in my own skin and dared to be me.

Connect with Varian:

Instagram-- vcbrandon
Facebook --varian brandon
Twitter -- @varianbrandon
LinkedIn -- varian Brandon
Periscope --@varianbrandon

Email – info@varianbrandon.com

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Meet Dr.Toni Hatton

Meet Power Mom Dr. Toni Hatton

Dr. Toni Hatton, The Attractive Thinker is a Vision and Mindset Expert, Speaker, Coach, Author of Don’t Be Afraid: He’s Preparing You!, Creator of The Attractive Thinker Movement and the From Sight to Vision Mastermind Experience! As a result of a defining moment in her life in which she supported her son in shifting from sight to total darkness, Dr. Toni now supports her clients who have sight but lack vision because his darkness became her light! Dr. Toni homeschooled 4 children for 11 years, hosted The Attractive Thinker Radio Program for Radio One in Baltimore for 2 years, and currently hosts a daily ‘From Sight to Vision Mastermind Experience’ where Attractive Thinkers declare their desires, eliminate fears, and discover their true identity and unlimited ability. Using her ability to find things that are lost and fix things that are broken her clients get clarity, focus, direction, and next steps to accomplishing their goals! When Attractive Thinkers come into her space, they shift from cloudy to clear! Dr. Toni’s life’s work is to make your life better! Her motto is, “It’s not what you’re going through, but how you’re viewing it! 

TDR:  Tell us about your children. 

DTH: Kevin, (29 years old) is a Certified Massage Therapist and Music Producer. Kevin was diagnosed with Bilateral Retinoblastoma at 10 months old and the decision was made to remove his eyes by the time he was 5 years old. Today, he lives a full productive life! Kristen (26 years old) is a Private Chef with 3 degrees in Culinary Arts Management. While addressing a life threatening illness while in college, Kristen discovered that she wanted to use her expertise in food preparation to show people how to use their food as their medicine and she hosts Tasting Parties to show health-conscious people food at its finest is good and good for you! Kristopher (20 years old) recently graduated with a degree in Automotive Technology works at a Car Dealership and is a Real Estate Investor. Karrington (15 years old) is a 10th grader currently working on the last chapter of his first book in which he shares principles to live by through the eyes of his generation! Kevin and Karrington love music and law, Kristopher loves technology/electronics, and Kristen simply adores food!

TDR:  How are you juggling your passion with the responsibilities of parenthood?

DTH:  Passion, parenthood, and responsibilities are one in the same. Being a parent is about being a responsible model for your children so they too can live their passion. I don't separate parenting from my passion because I model my passion in my parenting, they are one! Everything is a teachable moment. I prioritize, maximize my time, keep the first things first, and guard my focus from distractions! I'm clear that I can teach my children (young adults) better by shifting from talking to walking the talk! The more I create, the more clear their vision becomes! I got clear a long time ago that I'm here to create, live, and leave a legacy that speaks when I no longer can so I live with the end in mind! It's a true motivator!

TDR:  What are some of your struggles and how do you work to overcome them?

DTH:  I'm multi-talented, motivated, passionate, and a multi-tasker. Ideas flow like running water and it can be a struggle as to which ones to complete first. I used to struggle with making everyone's drama my drama because I'm here to support people in maximizing their lives, but I've learned to differentiate and strategically support those I am sent here to serve.
TDR:  What are 2 resources you use to help you stay motivated?

DTH: I keep a visual of what problems I'm sent here to solve and I focus on what will my 50 year old self thank my 40 year old self for accomplishing.

TDR:  What is your favorite way to pause?

DTH: Music, aromatherapy, Spa Bath, painting, watching movies with my children, trying a new restaurant with my daughter who's a foodie, Girls Night Out!

TDR:  What has been the scariest moment or crossroad in your journey?

DTH:  When I was told that my son would be blind!

TDR: What would be your greatest advice to other "Power Moms" wanting to pursue their dreams?

DTH: You're not fully living until you are fully YOU! Release the faulty beliefs that keep you showing up as an imitation of who you truly are! You and your dream are one. It will go everywhere you go until you embrace it, develop it, and release it to the wind!

TDR: What word best describes the legacy you want to leave for your children and why?

DTH: Vision -when you see beyond your current circumstances and view challenges as opportunities to grow, you maintain your momentum and you don’t get stuck in what you are designed to flow through, hence becoming unstoppable!

TDR: How can others collaborate and support your mission?

DTH: Spread the word about The Attractive Thinker and let people know that nothing is greater than learning to use the power of their thoughts for thoughts are things! When you align your thoughts with the things that you desire, you'll soon have them in your hand!

Connect with Dr. Toni Hatton

Website - www.theattractivethinker.guru
Facebook - Toni.Hatton.1 
Twitter - ToniHatton
Facebook - TheAttractiveThinker
                  -  Facebook Group
LinkedIn: The Attractive Thinker 

Did this inspire you? What are your thoughts? Please share feedback for this Power Mom below. Sometimes your words can trigger a thought that could change a life. We love hearing from you. Please share this with others if it helped you or could help someone else. Be sure to connect with this Power Mom below. We will check the comments box often. :)