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

Written By Jodi "Lady J" Watkins

Have you ever chased the “shiny object”—that promise of quick results, instant wealth, or rapid transformation—only to end up feeling more overwhelmed, more in debt, or more discouraged than when you started?

If so, you’re not alone. And you’re definitely not a failure.

I’ve been there. In fact, I’ve made some of my most painful (and most powerful) life lessons by trying to take shortcuts—especially in my health, finances, and even my purpose. And now, I’m turning those lessons into a new interactive course inside the Lady J Empowerment Community on Convene Communities.

The course is called:
“The Truth About the Shortcut: Why the Fast Way Often Leads to Setbacks.”

This isn’t just another motivational course or self-help idea. It’s a raw, faith-based journey through what really happens when we try to cheat the process—whether that’s ignoring sound financial wisdom, chasing fad diets and fitness hacks, or getting distracted by what looks like a better path.

Here’s what we’ll unpack together:

    •    Why the shiny object always ends up costing more than it promises
    •    What the Bible teaches about patience, wisdom, and stewardship
    •    The danger of trying to “cheat science” when it comes to health and wellness
    •    My personal story of jumping too fast into real estate investing—and how that decision led to bankruptcy
    •    How God used every mistake and misstep to grow me, ground me, and surround me with the right people

I’ve learned that shortcuts often come with hidden detours. But with faith, wisdom, and the right support, even our detours can become divine setups.

This course will include 4 modules with powerful lessons, journaling prompts, and interactive discussions—all created to help you reflect, grow, and move forward with purpose.

This isn’t about shame. It’s about stewardship.
It’s about choosing wisdom over impulse.
It’s about embracing God’s process, even when it feels slow.
And it’s about turning your pain into purpose—for yourself and for others.

If you’re in a season where you’ve been tempted by shortcuts, or maybe you’ve already paid the price for chasing them—I invite you to walk this journey with me. Because you’re not alone, and there is always hope when we stay grounded in truth and guided by grace.

Want to be the first to know when the course launches?
Head to https://linktr.ee/jodiwatkins and join the Lady J Empowerment Community on Convene.

Let’s stop chasing what looks good and start building what is good—with God’s help and each other’s support.

Jodi "Lady J" Watkins

I am a woman of faith, a leader, a mentor, and a lifelong student of growth. My journey has been filled with challenges, mistakes, and lessons that have shaped me into who I am today. While I cannot change my past, I can use it as fuel to empower others, create awareness, and help people break through the barriers holding them back.

I believe in the power of transformation—mentally, physically, and spiritually. Healing is a process, and true change happens when we surround ourselves with the right people and open ourselves up to the journey. Through my work as an author, speaker, and wellness coach, I share my story to inspire others to reclaim their lives, step into their greatness, and embrace the calling God has placed on them.

Writing has been one of my most powerful healing tools, and I now use this gift to help others find their voice, rewrite their narratives, and move forward with clarity and confidence. My passion is to collaborate with like-minded individuals who are ready to make an impact and create a better future for the next generation.

If you or someone you know is ready to take the next step in their journey, let’s connect. Together, we can do more, reach more, and change more lives.

https://linktr.ee/ladyjempowers
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