Throughout our journey with Voyage, the one thing we have learned over and over is that hidden within every challenge is a blessing or opportunity. It’s up to us to determine whether a challenge we face will be a step back or the catalyst for a step forward.
We had the honor of connecting with some of the city’s brightest female leaders and role models and we asked them our question of the month: What is the best advice you have for someone who feels like they are facing insurmountable odds.
Below, you’ll find their advice and links and other info so you can learn more about them, their work and how to connect with them. We’ll be interviewing many of these amazing women in the coming weeks, stay tuned.
Jaime Georgi | Creator of Electrik Fit
When I think of the definition of insurmountable, which means “”something too great to overcome””, the first thing that comes to mind is that all things are possible and nothing in life is too great to overcome! When life gets heavy (whether you are chasing a dream, having personal challenges, etc.) it is simply a sign that it is time to grow a little more, a test of your faith or signal that an area of your spirit needs healing and it is time to level up. Ultimately, these things only come about to take you to the next level of alignment that is awaiting you.
Personally, I have definitely had my share of challenges that I thought were going to break me. There were days I did not even want to leave the house because my spirit was broken and I knew it would reflect in my energy towards others… Especially when I decided to step into my purpose. I almost gave up many times (in the moment), only to remind myself that at the end of the day I do not want to look back on this time and space and realize I folded no matter how intense the pressure was. I constantly reminded myself of this daily, and had a few trusted friends & family to support me along the way. Also, I gained the courage to release toxic relationships and things in my life that no longer served me. Having a positive ecosystem is very important.
Long story short, if you ever find yourself feeling like you want to give up, I challenge you to try/remember these things:
-Pray & Believe! Prayer changes things.
-Words have power; watch your words.
-Trust the Process! I cannot stress this enough.
-Everything is mental! Your mind will believe whatever you tell it; so stay positive even when you are unsure.
-Always practice gratitude & keep a gratitude journal. There is always something to be grateful for.
-Feelings Don’t Matter! Too often we make permanent decisions based on temporary feelings. Think before you act! Feelings change from day to day and sometimes you may actually discover that what you felt was not as detrimental as you thought.
-The time will pass know matter what, so always strive to do your best.
-Always bet on yourself and have Faith!
-Create a list of goals that you have Faith for and execute the Work by listing action items. Then release it to the universe and move on to the next.
-Trigger points/challenges are often an indicator of an area in need of healing. Be willing to heal!
-Pressure makes diamonds, and you were born to shine!!
-Growth is uncomfortable and a part of life. Anything not growing is dead!
-When feeling overwhelmed, its okay to rest & reset. Each day is chance to start over!
-Be kind to yourself!
-Be RESILIENT!!
Now go and be great! The race is not given to the swift. Even if you feel like you are all alone, keep going. It is all about endurance and getting back up again, again & again!!
Tenille Johnson | Artist | Songwriter | Full Time Mommy and Mom Blogger
First, I’ll say that your thoughts are some of the most powerful tools you have at your disposal. Our thoughts and what we believe to be true about ourselves and our lives, most often dictate the trajectory of our future. So, start with changing what you believe about the challenges you face and your ability to meet and overcome those challenges. Whether it’s reciting affirmations until you believe them, asking for guidance from your creator/higher power, or drawing strength from recalling times in your life when you’ve met and successfully overcome similar challenges, choose an action you can take to strengthen your approach to overcoming the challenge.
Second, Reach out for help. Whether that is professional help from a counselor or support from family and friends.
Third, Remember that challenges are opportunities to grow and expand.
When I was pregnant with my daughter, my mother passed away after battling cancer. I wasn’t where I wanted to be emotionally, financially, or mentally. I had no idea how I would be able to face all that I was up against. I chose to take it day by day, seek wisdom from my creator, get counseling from a licensed therapist, and receive support offered by family and friends. The challenges I faced, forced me to be brave, and to grow. They ultimately made me stronger, and more equipped to shoulder the new responsibilities that would accompany the many new blessings showing up in my life.
feelmyhustle.com/blog
@puremomblog
lartisanmuse.com/products/eternal-916
Seekah | Artist & Aspiring Model
Challenges come to us in many different ways, weather it’s physically or emotionally; it could take time. Be patient, gentle, and kind to yourself. Take a step back if you need to. Meditate and think about everything that you did to overcome a challenge in the past. You’ve done this before; what makes this challenge so much greater? Analyze the situation and think logically. Write down steps to get to your goal and use your resources. Everyday is a challenge, and here you are, living, breathing, learning, heart beating, and being the best version of yourself. You are greater than your challenges.
@LoveSeekah
youtube.com/channel/UCqvnSOX4QJNpObutcoPz8_A/featured
Dr. Ariela Freedman | Strengths-based Learning and Development Consultant
When trying to address big challenges, remember that the goal isn’t to be fearless. The goal is to feel the fear, but do the thing anyway. That’s bravery. My mantra over the last few years is, “Everything I want is on the other side of fear.” Cross the bridge slowly, one step at a time, and pick good friends for the journey. You got this.
maventreeconsulting.com
linkedin.com/in/drarielafreedman
@MavenTreeConsulting
@maventree18
Alicia Godmasch | Film Producer | Writer & Location Manager
I believe that it is always good to remind yourself that no matter how much you stress yourself, get aggravated or cry your eyes out, some challenges may stick around a while. In fact, in some situations your only control will be your reactions to them. Keeping your body in a constant state of panic or frustration will only lead to health problems down the line. That’s why I have the tendency to take a deep breath and just let things ride. Do your best and then let it go. In the majority of cases, the issue is not as bad as you think, and even if it is, keeping your mind focused on the positive is the best environment to breed solutions. Once you have overcome your challenge, be sure to reward yourself.
Jessica Harper | GA & FL REALTOR
Allow your love, passion and strength to surpass the fear, disparity and hopelessness you feel at times.
Nothing is insurmountable. Believe you can and you will. Change your thinking and you will squash your doubts effortlessly.
HarperSellsHomes.georgiamls.com
@harper.sells.homes
@harper.sells.homes
Ka’Ronda Amor | Model | Actress | Singer/Songwriter
There’s A Solution To Every Problem.
I’m Constantly Creating New Ways To Handle Anything Challenging That Comes My Way and It’s Feels Amazing To Overcome Every Last One. Best Feeling Ever.
youtu.be/3GofaZMMZas
@mynameiskaronda
Chari Guzman | Beauty Influencer and Student
I have faced many trials in my life, but nothing quite compared to being diagnosed with a skin disorder named vitiligo at the age of 5. Growing up, it changed my outlook on life completely, but also made me the person I am today. The advice I would give someone feeling like they are facing an insurmountable challenge is continue to fight for your happiness by any means, surround yourself with people who genuinely care about you, and be kind to yourself when the storm calms (even if the challenge you were facing was your fault).
@itscharimonet
chariguzman.com
youtube.com/user/trianglegangg
Angela Matthews | Online Fashion Reseller
The advice I would give to someone facing an insurmountable challenge is to try to seek out a trusted individual they know who has been thru the same thing but is further down the road and maybe completely on the other side and talk to them. Share with them your struggles and ask them if they will mentor you or if they might have some advice as how best to tackle the mountain you face. It is always easiest to get thru something knowing there is someone you can reach out to for support that has been there and done that that can offer inspiration and encouragement. It is not going to be easy but with someone in your corner, it will make it seem more possible on the toughest days of your journey.
poshmark.com/listing/Meet-The-Posher-56f31b6f99086a0d8300278b
@bloomingbrands
@bloomingbrandsatl
SHEAY DE COSTA | REALTOR
If your goals do not make you feel uncomfortable or scared then your not setting the standard high enough. Learn how to get comfortable being uncomfortable. Great things happen when you are out of your comfort zone and you push yourself. Trust the discomfort of the process. I guarantee each time you look back at things that you once thought were insurmountable have now become your greatest achievement.
sheaydecosta.cbintouch.com
@sheayd
@SheaytheRealtor
linkedin.com/in/sheay-de-costa-8284b879
Annette Figueroa | TV Spokeswoman and Life Style Consultant
Be tenacious in your efforts, Stay focused, Set small daily goals, Concentrate on what is in front of you, The insurmountable will fade with each goal you achieve, and Remember nothing hard comes easy. The journey is the best part. Enjoy the ride. Success Will Follow!!!!!!!!!!!
@AnnetteFig
@AnnetteLfig
@AnnetteFig
AnnetteFigueroa.com
Tamara Green | Licensed Realtor & Marketing and Communications Professional
The best advice that I could give anyone that is facing a challenge would have to be: PRAY, KEEP THE FAITH, AND MOST IMPORTANTLY: KEEP GOD FIRST. In our own strength, the things that we go through can seem overwhelming and sometimes it may even seem like we’ll never get through that challenge. However, we have to realize that God will take us through certain situations to really test our faith. It’s easy to trust God when things are going our way, but what happens when everything in your life is turned upside down? This is where your faith has to kick in. The challenges that we go through in life are meant to make us stronger. And remember, you’re never in this alone. We all go through different challenges in life. I can guarantee that everyone around you is either going through a storm, about to enter into a storm, or just coming out of one. The challenge is only temporary and giving up is never an option!
tamaragreen.kw.com
@tamara_mariee
@tamaragreentherealtor
Jasmine Duncan | Beauty/Style Blogger & Pro Makeup Artist
No matter how hard life or ANY challenge you’re facing gets, keep your head up and keep going. Better days are always ahead. You’ve got to experience a little rain before you can see a rainbow.
Magalie Remy | Entrepreneur | Business Owner of Heart and Spirit | Curator of Fine Yarn and Fiber | Knitwear Designer
Facing seemingly insurmountable challenges requires an unwavering belief in yourself. It’s important to know and believe that we have unique strengths and abilities. My advice is to use those superpowers of creativity, innovation, and imagination in the approach to any and all challenges. In your strategy and planning you can start small and use your resources. You may very well be the new standard.
heartandspiritatl.com
@heartandspirit_atl
@heartandspiritatlanta
Jonnessa Brown | Chef and Owner of Cafe Bourbon St.
The best advice I could give to someone who is facing a challenge they feel is insurmountable is to perfect your skill so that you’re able to conquer the challenge. When you’re well-skilled in your craft you are able to face challenges head first. For instance, I was a power-lifter in high school. I trained every day, and my coach would put the weight on the bar and tell me to do it without me even knowing the amount of weight on the bar. Sometimes I would struggle but I kept trying. I never gave up on a weight that was challenging. I ended up squatting 410 pounds and became The State Champion of Mississippi three years in a row from 2007 to 2010. So I keep that same mentality today with my food truck. I run into different challenges a lot running a food truck business but I never let that stop me. I’m always learning new ways to run my kitchen more efficiently and new ways to become a better chef. So you should always view a challenge as a learning opportunity. A quote from me “Success is when Preparation meets Opportunity. So always be prepared.
@masterchefjb
@cafebourbonst
cafebourbonst.com
Valyn Lyons | Atlanta Real Estate Broker
Nothing is too great to over come. Your mindset is everything..If you believe it you can achieve it. It’s cliché but it’s true. Your words, your thought and your energy is powerful.
@valyncolelyonsrealestate
thecolerealtygroup.net
Koya Brown | Mobile Massage Therapist
When we live in purity;
full of love and faith.
We are able to see and appreciate each moment.
The gift of presence leads to the connection with our essence.
Once that connection is present there will no longer be an urge or ideal to have control.
We will always be provided with whats needed by law of attraction.
What one needs is already being manifested.
Remember,
Nothing is too great to overcome,
Speak love, peace, and power into your life, and keep that as the focus and life shall provide all things needed to live out our personal legends.
Abigail Dixon | Abigail Dixon Events | Owner & Event Planner
Katie Michelle Photo
Life is full of things that feel insurmountable. The greatest step towards facing that challenge is breaking down that one insurmountable challenge into many small, doable tasks. After that come up with a plan and ask for help where needed. Priorities and strengths look different for everyone so focus on what you can do and outsource the rest. Small, consistent steps lead to big, life-changing actions.
@abigaildixonevents
abigaildixonevents@gmail.com
Prova | Model & Student
My best advice would be to remain calm and think of ways in which you can tackle your tough situation. Often times, we let stress consume our lives and instead of trying to brainstorm ways to solve our issue, we tend to solely focus on the problem itself. Life will always be filled with difficult times and instead of dwelling on the problem, ask yourself: What can I do to improve this situation? Who can I ask for help?, etc. After coming up with a plan, it’s important that you take action and be proactive in doing all that you can to tackle the situation you’re in. If things still don’t work out, at least you’ll know that you’ve done all you can to try and alleviate the issue.
It’s also crucial to remember that bad times don’t last forever. Whatever you’re going through will pass soon enough and at the end of the day, every tough situation can be seen as a learning experience from which you can grow. Stay positive!
Rebekah Vepraskas | Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
My best advice for a person who is facing a challenge that is feels insurmountable is “Breathe. Remember that challenges are opportunities. Take another deep breath. Consider approaching this opportunity *mindfully,* knowing that in this very moment, which we are living in right now- we are actually OK.”
@salientcounseling
salientcounseling.com
@georgiatech
Brittany Nicole| Fashion Designer | Fashion Stylist and CEO of B. Nicole Designs, LLC
I believe in manifesting all good things. I love a good challenge, it serves as a test and I know that everything is possible. In order to overcome any challenge, you must first believe in yourself. Secondly, take a quick step back to silently think and strategize. In stillness you will find connection to your full potential. There isn’t anything that you can’t overcome. I get excited for challenges, because it strengthens me, and there is a greater prize once you face it and overcome. Nothing in this life comes easy!
@B.Nicole_World
@B.Nicole_DesignsLLC
bnicoledeisgns.com
eventbrite.com/e/bnicole-designs-presents-the-soft-launch-tickets-70078275007
Amber Hill | Psychic Life Coach and Motivational Speaker at B’Nspired Services LLC
I would say that you are stronger than you believe you are! There is nothing in this life that we can’t face or overcome if we would BEGIN WITHIN. Often times in this life we look outside of ourselves for happiness or solutions to our obstacles. The truth is most times once we get still and quiet ourselves the more clarity will come to us about how we should face those obstacles in our lives. Self will never lead us astray.
bnspiredlifecoaching.com
@bnspiredservices
linkedin.com/in/amber-hill-1ab50a58
@BNspiredServices
youtube.com/user/Amber51788/featured?view_as=subscriber
Nikeia Mitchell M.A. | Master Level Therapist | REALTOR® At Nikeia Mitchell And Associates
The great thing about situations that may seem insurmountable is that they force us to surrender. As much as we talk about surrendering, we don’t get to know what it really means until we have absolutely nowhere to run and nowhere to hide. When you’re burnt out emotionally and feel as if you’re drowning, it’s important to know you can just float. Take the time to realize that challenges aren’t made to break us but made to mold us in ways that only challenges us to evolve, grow, and learn more about ourselves. They require us to change in ways we never knew we could. Choosing not to give up is where the mental strength endures. Once we change our thinking and understand that things don’t happen “to us” but instead “for us” it gives us the ability to handle difficult situations with grace, knowing that on the other side of challenge, we will find yourselves stronger and wiser. At the end of the day remember that what was seemingly insurmountable becomes achievable.
@nikeiamitchellandassociates
@nikeiamitchellandassociates
Info@nikeiamitchellandassociates.com
nikeiamitchellandassociates.com
Angela Ham | REALTOR
I would advise them to give it 100% and make sure they have a WHY behind it. Your WHY could be to provide a better life for family, the ability to travel the world, end homelessness, or provide for those in need. Your WHY has to be powerful enough that it will be painful if not achieved or accomplished.
hamandcompany.com
@angelahamtheagent
@realtorangelaham
Aubrey Ford | Baker at Aubrey’s Treat Lab
The best advice I could give someone facing a challenge they deem as insurmountable would be to break your solution down into at least 10 steps. Any mountain will look impossible to climb when you’re standing directly beneath it. Put some distance between you and the issue. Before you know it, you’ll have overcome your greatest obstacle!
Dion Metzger, MD | Psychiatrist | Professor and Bestselling Author
Peel one layer at a time. All challenges become more manageable once broken down into steps. Take the first step and the second will be easier than the first.
@dionmetzgermd
dionmetzgermd.com
Avril Occilien-Similien | Believer| Lover of Learning | Life Coach
Have you ever seen an athlete run a hurdle race? What do they do when they face an obstacle? If you think about life as a hurdle race, you will realize that obstacles are a part of the journey. Obstacles are not there to block our progress, they are there to be overcome…and you are an over comer! Whatever goal you are pursuing, channel you inner athlete. Anticipate the obstacles, keep your eye on the finish line and show that obstacle who’s boss.
Jaclyn Fraser | Mom | Entrepreneur | Lifestyle/Beauty Blogger
Just keep going. I still struggle with this. We often find ourselves doubting how far we can go, and we forget to acknowledge how far we’ve come – all the fears we’ve faced, and the battles we’ve won. Don’t stop. You’re present situation is not your final destination. Everyone struggles, success lies with those who keep going. Get started. Learn as you go. Action creates momentum, and momentum energizes you to keep going. And it’s OKAY if you have to remind yourself of that every morning.
jaclynfraser.myrandf.com
Themodernmama.blog
@jaclyn.fraser
@jaclyn.kirby.9
Meilani Edwards | ATL Makeup Artist | Entrepreneur | Singer & Model
The best advice I would give to someone who is facing a challenge that they feel is insurmountable is to keep going, no matter how hard things may seem! To ALWAYS remain positive and trust that they can do whatever they put their mind to. Anything is possible, especially if you have that mindset. I also serve God, so I’m a firm believer in “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
meibeautymakeover.acuityscheduling.com
@makeupbymeilani
@meilani.edwards
MARIA HILL | SWEETLIFE HOUSEWIFE, LLC | ATLANTA BLOGGER & YOUTUBER
When facing a challenge that seems insurmountable I pray for guidance, strength and wisdom to make the right decisions. I create a schedule of tasks for the plan of attack. When you break a big project or goal down into bite size tasks things become more achievable. Also, delegate whenever possible. This might mean working on one section while a partner works on another or even having groceries delivered, hiring a dog walker, cleaning service, etc.
Taking time for yourself to exercise and eat well is always important.
At the end of the day remember that sometimes done is better than absolutely perfect.
Melissa Latimer
February 11, 2019 at 5:03 am
Amazing + Inspirational. Love this and love the features of
All these lovely Ladies! Life at times will let us down – My way is Never give up! After being in business for 6 years w two businesses and working to open a Day Spa … set backs can be frustrating and make you want to pull your hair out plus many other things… Your DREAMS have to be bigger than us to keep driving towards your success!