Blogs to Inspire and Encourage

Learnings, teachings, and experiences learned in life for anyone to reference during difficult times, stressful workdays and moments when manifesting your true self. See more blogs at Convene Communities

Jodi "Lady J" Watkins Jodi "Lady J" Watkins

Burnout Isn’t the End—It’s the Invitation: Choosing Rest, Renewal, and Reconnection

In a culture that glamorizes nonstop hustle, burnout often feels like the price of ambition—but what if it’s actually a divine invitation? In this transparent and faith-driven reflection, I share how burnout led me to a powerful turning point in my life. I went from pushing through the grind to embracing grace, rest, and reconnection with God. This blog is for the high achievers, the caretakers, the leaders—and anyone else who’s ever felt like they’ve hit a wall. You’ll discover why burnout isn’t your breakdown—it’s your breakthrough. It’s time to stop performing and start healing. You’re not alone, and you’re not broken. You’re becoming.

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Jodi "Lady J" Watkins Jodi "Lady J" Watkins

Unseen and Forgotten: The Other Side of the Uniform

As we pause to honor the fallen this Memorial Day, we must also acknowledge the silent casualties—those who wore the uniform, came home, and yet never truly made it back. In Unseen and Forgotten: The Other Side of the Uniform, I share my deeply personal journey as a veteran who gave 15 years to the U.S. Air Force, only to face disillusionment, depression, and rejection in return. This is a raw, honest reflection on the sacrifices that don’t make headlines—the broken systems, invisible wounds, and the devastating silence that follows service.

This is not just my story. It’s the story of many who still smile, still show up, yet silently carry the weight of what they’ve endured. It’s a call to veteran organizations to move beyond token gestures and create real, unified, accessible support. Because for many of us, survival didn’t end with our service—it began after the uniform came off.

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Jodi "Lady J" Watkins Jodi "Lady J" Watkins

The Power of Reset: Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Reclaim Your Life

Have you ever gone after a quick fix, only to find yourself deeper in frustration, debt, or doubt? You’re not alone—and you’re not a failure. In The Truth About the Shortcut, I open up about the hard lessons I’ve learned chasing fast results in my health, finances, and purpose. This raw, faith-based reflection isn’t just a warning; it’s an invitation to embrace wisdom, patience, and God’s timing. If you’ve ever been tempted to bypass the process, this is for you. Join me in the Lady J Empowerment Community as we stop chasing what looks good and start building what is good—together.

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Jodi "Lady J" Watkins Jodi "Lady J" Watkins

The Truth About the Shortcut: Why the Fast Way Often Leads to Setbacks

Have you ever gone after a quick fix, only to find yourself deeper in frustration, debt, or doubt? You’re not alone—and you’re not a failure. In The Truth About the Shortcut, I open up about the hard lessons I’ve learned chasing fast results in my health, finances, and purpose. This raw, faith-based reflection isn’t just a warning; it’s an invitation to embrace wisdom, patience, and God’s timing. If you’ve ever been tempted to bypass the process, this is for you. Join me in the Lady J Empowerment Community as we stop chasing what looks good and start building what is good—together.

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Jodi "Lady J" Watkins Jodi "Lady J" Watkins

Time Empowerment: How Reclaiming Your Time Can Reclaim Your Life

Are you constantly feeling like there’s never enough time? You’re not alone—but what if the answer isn’t “managing” your time, but empowering yourself with it? In this blog, we shift from burnout and busyness to purpose-driven scheduling rooted in faith, flexibility, and intention. Learn how a simple time audit, priority alignment, and inviting God into your daily planning can transform your life—one focused block at a time. If you’re ready to stop surviving your days and start thriving in them, this is your next step.

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Jodi "Lady J" Watkins Jodi "Lady J" Watkins

Athlete vs. Player: The Mentality Shift That Transforms Your Life

Are you showing up—or are you leveling up?

In life, business, and wellness, there’s a defining line between being a player and becoming an athlete. It’s not about talent—it’s about mindset. In this powerful read, discover the mentality shift that high performers embrace to build discipline, develop resilience, and pursue wholeness. Learn the habits that fuel consistent growth, the importance of being coachable, and how the right community can elevate your purpose.

Whether you’re tired of just “playing the game” or ready to become the game changer, this is your call to rise.

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Jodi "Lady J" Watkins Jodi "Lady J" Watkins

Unstuck to Unstoppable: Healing Trauma to Lead Boldly in Business and Life

Have you ever felt like no matter how much you accomplish, something invisible is still holding you back? You lead, serve, build businesses, and keep pushing forward — but deep inside, there’s a silent struggle that keeps you stuck in cycles of burnout, self-doubt, and playing small.

I know that battle because I’ve lived it.

As a veteran, business owner, speaker, and trauma survivor, I spent years unknowingly leading from a place of survival — suppressing wounds I didn’t even realize were running my life. It wasn’t until I surrendered my healing to God, faced the trauma head-on, and rewired my subconscious that I finally experienced freedom.

In this journey, I discovered something life-changing: we can’t lead others well if we’re secretly falling apart inside. True leadership begins when we step out of survival mode, release the hidden trauma, and allow God to rewrite our story.

This blog isn’t just my story — it’s an invitation to yours. If you’re tired of being stuck, if you feel called to lead boldly, heal deeply, and leave a legacy of faith and wholeness — your journey starts here.

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Jodi "Lady J" Watkins Jodi "Lady J" Watkins

The Power of Choice: How One Decision Can Change Everything

We often underestimate how powerful one decision can be—until we look back and realize it changed everything. Growing up in a cycle of trauma and limitation, I never saw possibility, only survival. But one choice at a time—whether to believe in something greater, to seek support, or to break generational patterns—brought me from a life of reaction to a journey of restoration.

In this heartfelt piece, I reflect on the importance of choosing faith over fear, community over chaos, and purpose over pain. Whether it’s a career move, a relationship, or your mental health, every decision shapes your path. And when you choose to surrender to God’s guidance, that’s when transformation truly begins.

You have the power to change everything—starting with one choice. Are you ready to make it?

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Jodi "Lady J" Watkins Jodi "Lady J" Watkins

Starting Small, Thinking Big: The Entrepreneur's Guide to Success and Faith

In a world of big dreams and high aspirations, success often begins with small, consistent steps. Whether you're launching a business, leading a team, or pursuing personal growth, the key to long-term achievement lies in embracing small beginnings while keeping a big vision in mind.

The Bible reminds us in Zechariah 4:10, "Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin." Faithfulness in the process matters more than immediate results. As you take small yet intentional actions—setting up a website, networking, or refining your leadership skills—you build momentum and credibility, laying the foundation for greater success.

But thinking big is just as crucial. Without a vision, your steps lack direction. Proverbs 16:3 encourages us, "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans." Break your dreams into actionable goals, surround yourself with a supportive community, and track your progress. Most importantly, extend grace to yourself along the journey.

Success isn’t about overnight transformation; it’s about consistency, resilience, and faith. Take that first step today—because small actions, rooted in purpose, lead to extraordinary impact.

Want more guidance and support? Join us inside the Lady J Empowerment Collective!

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Jodi "Lady J" Watkins Jodi "Lady J" Watkins

Entrepreneurship, Overwhelm, and the Power of Consistency in Stewardship

Entrepreneurship is a journey filled with highs and lows, moments of clarity and chaos. When I officially began this path in 2017, it wasn’t out of luxury—it was out of necessity. Like many, I stepped into the unknown with passion and vision, only to be met with unexpected challenges, seasons of doubt, and a lack of support. But what I’ve learned is this: God doesn’t call us to a purpose without equipping us to walk through it.

One of the hardest lessons in business has been realizing that while people may step back, God always steps in. The world glorifies hustle and endless grinding, but true success is found in stewardship—faithfully managing what God has given us. My journey led me to the Kingdom Driven Entrepreneur movement, where I learned to embrace grace over grind. Instead of striving for validation, I began focusing on divine alignment, allowing God to shape my business and mission.

If you find yourself overwhelmed or questioning your path, take the first S.T.E.P.—seek help from above. True transformation happens when we release control, trust the process, and remain faithful to the vision God has placed in our hearts.

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Jodi "Lady J" Watkins Jodi "Lady J" Watkins

Fueling Your Body is a Spiritual Practice: How Food Impacts Your Health and Well-Being

We’ve all heard the phrase "you are what you eat," but have you ever considered that what you consume is not just about physical nourishment—it’s spiritual too? The way we fuel our bodies directly impacts our energy, mindset, and overall well-being. Just like managing finances requires tracking expenses, achieving optimal health starts with paying attention to what we put into our bodies.

My journey with nutrition began as a caregiver for my mother from 2007 to 2009. After she passed, I realized I had neglected my own health while juggling pregnancy, military service, and school. It wasn’t until 2010 that I discovered the power of food tracking, a practice that transformed my approach to health. Over the years, I pursued multiple certifications in nutrition and bodybuilding, reinforcing the truth that no quick-fix diet or pill can replace intentional eating habits.

Just as ignoring finances can lead to debt, neglecting nutrition leads to declining health. Tracking what we eat isn’t about restriction—it’s about awareness. With today’s technology, like the 1st Phorm app, there’s no excuse not to take control of our health. Simple habits—like drinking enough water, prioritizing whole foods, and maintaining consistency—create lasting change.

Your health is your greatest investment. Don’t wait until it’s too late to prioritize it. Start today, one step at a time.

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Jodi "Lady J" Watkins Jodi "Lady J" Watkins

Called, Then Equipped: Trusting God Through Setbacks and Setups

In 2022, I thought I had my path figured out. My vision was clear: build a team of personal trainers, expand 2BEpic Fitness and Nutrition, and create lasting impact. But God had a different plan—one I never saw coming but was designed for my growth.

Through financial setbacks and heartbreak, I learned that what seemed like a breakdown was actually a divine setup. God redirected me toward real estate investing, partnerships, and opportunities that aligned with my true calling. He reminded me that I was already equipped to lead—not just in fitness, but in all areas of life.

Faith Like a Mustard Seed

I carry a mustard seed as a reminder that faith doesn’t have to be big—it just has to be present. Even in uncertainty, God is at work, orchestrating every step.

Not Everyone Can Go With You

Growth requires letting go. If people naturally exit your life, trust the process. God is refining your path, protecting your journey, and preparing you for what’s ahead.

Will You Trust Him?

If you feel unequipped or overwhelmed, know this: God calls before He equips. Your struggles are not a mistake—they are preparation. The question is, will you surrender the pen and let Him write your story?

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Jodi "Lady J" Watkins Jodi "Lady J" Watkins

Discernment: A Gift of Wisdom and Protection

Have you ever wondered why certain relationships leave you drained while others uplift you? For years, I struggled with trusting the wrong people, ignoring my instincts, and dismissing the warning signs that God placed in front of me. But through growth and faith, I discovered that discernment is one of the greatest gifts we can receive. When we embrace it, we empower ourselves to break free from cycles of hurt and misplaced trust.

The Bible reminds us in Matthew 7:15 to “Beware of false prophets... they look gentle like sheep, but they are really dangerous like wolves.” Without discernment, we may fall prey to situations that pull us away from our God-given purpose. Learning to trust in divine wisdom changed my life.

At the end of 2024, I became intentional about setting boundaries, protecting my peace, and truly listening to the Holy Spirit. This shift gave me clarity in my relationships, business, and spiritual journey. A key tool in my transformation was The Cortina Method (TCM), which helped me heal from past traumas and trust my intuition.

If you’re struggling with discernment, I invite you to explore this journey with me. Until March 10, I am offering a free TCM visit for those who book a discovery call through my website: www.ladyjempowers.com.

Take a moment to reflect:
🔹 Are the people in your life truly for you?
🔹 Do your relationships bring peace or drain your energy?
🔹 Are you trusting God’s guidance or ignoring red flags?

Discernment is a gift that requires practice and intentionality. Pray for wisdom, set boundaries, and never be afraid to walk away from what no longer aligns with your purpose.

With love and empowerment,
Lady J

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Jodi "Lady J" Watkins Jodi "Lady J" Watkins

The Weight of Labels: How Diagnoses Can Hinder Healing

Mental health diagnoses are meant to provide clarity, but they can also become limiting labels that shape our identity and restrict our healing journey. While these classifications help professionals navigate treatment, they may also foster stigma, discouragement, and a sense of permanence in conditions that are, in reality, changeable.

In my own experience, being diagnosed with Complex PTSD, anxiety disorder, and chronic depression left me feeling trapped. I was told I would carry these conditions for life. Yet, through transformative approaches like The Cortina Method (TCM), I discovered healing was possible—often in just one session.

Unlike traditional therapy, TCM reprograms the subconscious mind, addressing trauma at its root without prolonged treatment. This breakthrough led me to offer free TCM sessions for a limited time, giving others the chance to experience true healing. If you've ever felt confined by a diagnosis, know this: you are not your label. Healing is possible, and it begins with a single step.

📅 Schedule a Free Discovery Call: Click here to book.

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Jodi "Lady J" Watkins Jodi "Lady J" Watkins

Be Still: Healing Through Anxiety, Depression, and PTSD

Have you ever woken up feeling overwhelmed before your day even begins? I lived in that reactive state for years—letting anxiety, stress, and past trauma dictate my actions. But everything changed when I embraced the power of stillness.

"Be still, and know that I am God." – Psalm 46:10

In this blog, I share my journey from living in survival mode to finding peace through faith, boundaries, and intentional growth. Healing doesn’t happen overnight, but when we shift from reacting to proactively seeking peace, we step into the life God has for us.

If you're ready to reclaim your peace and break free from anxiety, read more.

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Jodi "Lady J" Watkins Jodi "Lady J" Watkins

Even the Strong Need Support: Faith, Resilience, and Breaking the Silence

On the outside, I seemed strong—successful, driven, and a leader. But inside, I was battling PTSD, burnout, and silent suffering. Too often, those who carry the weight of others’ struggles have no one checking in on them.

In this heartfelt blog, I share my personal journey of hitting rock bottom, how faith became my anchor, and why it’s crucial to support the strong ones in our lives. If you or someone you know is struggling, this message is for you.

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Jodi "Lady J" Watkins Jodi "Lady J" Watkins

Breaking Free from Self-Sabotage: Why We Block Ourselves from True Success

Success isn’t about shortcuts or quick fixes—it’s about consistent action, mindset shifts, and embracing what actually works. Yet, so many of us stay stuck in self-sabotage, resisting the very strategies that lead to growth. Why? Because we crave instant results and avoid the effort real change requires.

In this powerful read, I uncover the biggest mindset traps holding us back, the truth about sustainable success in health, business, and life, and the steps you can take today to break the cycle. If you’re ready to stop getting in your own way, this blog is your wake-up call.

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Jodi "Lady J" Watkins Jodi "Lady J" Watkins

Be the Thermostat, Not the Thermometer: Embracing God’s Strength in the Pressures of Life

Are you setting the tone in your life, or are you merely reacting to the world around you? Be the Thermostat, Not the Thermometer explores how to lead with faith, influence your environment, and overcome self-doubt. Through personal experiences and biblical truths, Jodi Watkins reveals how God’s strength empowers us to step into our calling. If you've ever felt the pressure of leadership or struggled with self-sabotage, this message will inspire you to stand firm, heal, and embrace your purpose. Stop shrinking—start leading.

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Jodi "Lady J" Watkins Jodi "Lady J" Watkins

Step Into Your Greatness: Breaking Free and Embracing Your Best Life

Life is full of choices—some big, some small, but each one shapes the direction of our lives. Yet, how often do we make decisions out of habit, convenience, or a desire for quick relief, only to find ourselves stuck in the same cycles?

I know this struggle all too well. I’ve fallen into patterns of overcommitting, overindulging, and overthinking—looking for solutions in all the wrong places. But what I’ve learned is this: transformation isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress.

That’s where the S.T.E.P. and S.H.I.N.E. frameworks come in. They’re not just acronyms; they’re tools for intentional living. When we S.T.E.P. forward, we acknowledge that we can’t do this alone. Seeking help, trusting the process, and evaluating the impact of our choices allows us to make real progress. And as we S.H.I.N.E. brightly, setting boundaries and healing from within, we release the lies that have kept us bound and step into a new journey of freedom and purpose.

The hardest part is starting—admitting that something needs to change. But here’s the beauty: we don’t have to do it on our own. God meets us in our brokenness, offering grace and strength to move forward.

So, let’s pause today and ask: What is one choice I can make differently? It doesn’t have to be a grand gesture. Sometimes, the smallest intentional shift creates the biggest ripple effect.

Remember, you’re not alone. Together, as we reflect, pray, and act, we’ll step into the greatness we were created for—one choice at a time.

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Jodi "Lady J" Watkins Jodi "Lady J" Watkins

The Silent Struggles of Being Everything to Everyone: Learning to Let Go and Value Ourselves

As women and moms, we often take on the weight of the world—careers, children, relationships, and endless expectations. Somewhere along the way, we lose sight of the one person who holds it all together: ourselves.

Over the past year, I’ve faced challenges that have tested me in unimaginable ways. Strained relationships, especially with my daughter, left me questioning everything I thought I was doing right. But through the heartbreak came the lessons I needed most—the importance of stepping back, letting go, and prioritizing my well-being.

In this blog, I’ll share the dangers of trying to do it all, the toll it takes on our minds and bodies, and the steps I’ve taken to reclaim my peace. From learning to say no without guilt to embracing imperfection, I’ve found that letting go doesn’t mean giving up—it means creating space for growth, healing, and rediscovering ourselves.

If you’re overwhelmed, misunderstood, or simply feeling stuck, know that you’re not alone. Let’s walk this journey together toward valuing ourselves and thriving—not for everyone else, but for us.

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Start your journey

Everything I do is to help others streamline their processes, have a strategy for success, and ultimately lessen emotional overwhelm. Contact me today to see where you desire to begin. It’s not about perfection. It’s about progress.