by Rev. Stephanie Denise | Jun 30, 2024 | Finding your Purpose, Rediscovering Purpose
Building confidence before giving a speech can be crucial, whether it’s at church, in the community, or for small groups.
There are several techniques you can use to build confidence and calm your nerves before a speech, including prayer. Here are 5 effective techniques:
- Deep breathing: Take slow, deep breaths to help calm your nerves and focus your mind.
- Visualization: Imagine yourself giving a successful speech and receiving positive feedback from the audience.
- Positive affirmations: Repeat positive affirmations to yourself, such as “I am confident and well-prepared.”
- Progressive muscle relaxation: Tense and then relax each muscle group in your body to release tension.
- Prayer: If prayer helps you feel calm and centered, take a moment to pray before your speech.
Combining these techniques can help you feel more confident and relaxed before your speech. Remember to practice your speech beforehand and focus on connecting with your audience rather than worrying about yourself. You can do it!
by Rev. Stephanie Denise | Jun 30, 2024 | Finding your Purpose, Rediscovering Purpose
Handling constructive criticism can be challenging, especially for us public speakers who put a lot of effort into our presentations. Here are some tips on how to deal with constructive criticism effectively:
1. Stay open-minded:
Remember that feedback is an opportunity for growth and improvement. Approach criticism with an open mind and a willingness to learn.
2. Separate the feedback from your emotions:
It’s natural to feel defensive when receiving criticism, but try to separate your emotions from the feedback. Focus on the constructive aspects of the criticism rather than taking it personally.
3. Ask for specific feedback:
If the criticism is vague, ask for specific examples or suggestions for improvement. This can help you better understand the feedback and take actionable steps to address it.
4. Reflect on the feedback:
Take some time to reflect on the feedback you’ve received. Consider how you can use it to improve your public speaking skills and enhance your future presentations.
5. Practice self-care:
Receiving criticism can be tough, so make sure to practice self-care and take care of your emotional well-being. Surround yourself with supportive people who can help you process the feedback.
Benefits of constructive criticism for public speakers:
1. Improvement:
Constructive criticism provides valuable insights that can help you improve your public speaking skills. By addressing areas of weakness, you can enhance your presentations and become a more effective speaker.
2. Increased self-awareness:
Feedback can help you gain a better understanding of your strengths and weaknesses as a speaker. This self-awareness is crucial for personal growth and development.
3. Builds resilience:
Learning how to handle criticism in a constructive way can help you build resilience and confidence as a public speaker. Over time, you’ll become more adept at receiving feedback and using it to your advantage.
4. Enhances credibility:
Taking feedback seriously and making improvements based on it can enhance your credibility as a speaker. Audiences appreciate speakers who are willing to listen, learn, and grow.
Overall, constructive criticism is a valuable tool for public speakers looking to enhance skills and deliver more impactful presentations. Embrace feedback as an opportunity for growth and development, and you’ll become a stronger and more effective speaker in the long run.
Walking in Purpose,
Rev Stephanie Denise
by Rev. Stephanie Denise | Jun 26, 2024 | Finding your Purpose, Living on Purpose, Rediscovering Purpose
There are parallels between the mission and message of Jesus as described in the scriptures and finding your own personal purpose. Let’s break it down:
In Luke 3:1-6, we see John the Baptist preparing the way for Jesus, emphasizing the importance of repentance and making the path straight for the Lord. This can be related to the idea of reflecting on our own journey, acknowledging our past mistakes, and clearing the way for a renewed sense of purpose.
Moving on to Luke 4:14-21, we witness Jesus proclaiming His mission to bring good news to the poor, freedom to the prisoners, sight to the blind, and to set the oppressed free. This can inspire us to consider how we can also bring hope and healing to those around us, aligning our purpose with serving others in a meaningful way.
In Luke 6:17-23 and Matthew 5:1-7, 29, we learn about the Beatitudes and the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus teaches about humility, mercy, purity of heart, and peacemaking. This can guide us in understanding the qualities that are valued in God’s plan and how we can incorporate them into our own lives as we discover our purpose.
Ephesians 5:1-2 and Luke 9:28-36 speak to the importance of imitating Christ and finding our identity in Him. By reflecting on these scriptures, we can deepen our connection to our faith and understand how our personal identity is intertwined with our purpose in Christ.
Luke 23:32-49 depicts the death of Jesus, highlighting the sacrifice He made for our salvation. This can prompt us to consider what we need to let go of in our own lives in order to clarify our purpose and fully commit to following God’s plan for us.
Finally, in Luke 24:1-8, we witness the victory of Christ over death, symbolizing the triumph of His mission. This can inspire us to embrace the victory we have in Christ and confidently pursue the purpose He has called us to fulfill. Then Luke 24:44-53 inspired us to share Jesus Christ with others by committing to Jesus, committing to share the Gospel and commitment to pray for others.
By reflecting on these scriptures and drawing connections to your own journey of discovering and sustaining purpose and faith, you can find guidance and inspiration to continue growing and celebrating the unique path God has set before you.
Rev. Stephanie Denise
Session 7 Review and Wrap-up
by Rev. Stephanie Denise | Jun 24, 2024 | Finding your Purpose, Living on Purpose, Rediscovering Purpose
Objective:
To explore the identity of Jesus and understand how it relates to our personal purpose. Additionally, to emphasize the importance of carrying Godly characteristics as identification and to discuss the consequences of not having Godly identification.
Scriptures:
1. Ephesians 5:1-2 – “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”
2. Luke 9:18-19 – “Now it happened that as he was praying alone, the disciples were with him. And he asked them, ‘Who do the crowds say that I am?’ And they answered, ‘John the Baptist. But others say, Elijah, and others, that one of the prophets of old has risen.'”
3. Luke 9:20-22 – “Then he said to them, ‘But who do you say that I am?’ And Peter answered, ‘The Christ of God.’ And he strictly charged and commanded them to tell this to no one, saying, ‘The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised.'”
4. Luke 9:23-26 – “And he said to all, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself? For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.'”
5. Luke 22:57 – “But he denied it, saying, ‘Woman, I do not know him.'”
Object Lesson:
The Importance of Carrying Identification
Materials needed:
– A passport or identification card
– Pictures or illustrations of different countries
Procedure:
- Look at a passport or identification card and explain its purpose in identifying oneself in another country.
- Discuss the importance of carrying identification, emphasizing that it helps establish our identity and grants us access to certain privileges and services.
- Look at pictures or illustrations of different countries and explain how not having identification can lead to difficulties, such as being unable to enter a country or access essential services.
- How does this concept relate to our spiritual identity and the importance of knowing who we are in Christ Jesus?
This Weeks Next Steps for strengthening Purpose:
- Reflect on the scriptures provided and identify key themes and messages about our purpose in following Jesus.
- To spend time in prayer and reflection, seeking God’s guidance in understanding personal purpose in following Jesus.
- Discuss and share personal insights and revelations within a group setting, fostering a sense of community and support.
Ways to Follow Jesus:
- Regularly engage in prayer and Bible study to deepen your relationship with Jesus.
- Seek opportunities to serve others and demonstrate Christ’s love in your daily life.
- Join a local church or Christian community for fellowship, support, and growth.
- Share your faith with others and invite them to experience the transformative power of Jesus.
Who Jesus Is to You and Who You Are in Christ Jesus:
- Spend time meditating on who Jesus is to you personally. Reflect on his character, teachings, and the impact he has had on your life.
- Consider the identity you have in Christ Jesus, such as being a child of God, forgiven, loved, and empowered by the Holy Spirit.
- Write down your thoughts and feelings about Jesus and your identity in him, allowing these truths to shape your perspective and actions.
Acknowledging, Believing in, and Committing to Jesus Christ:
- Acknowledge Jesus as the Son of God, the Savior, and the Lord of your life.
- Believe in the power of his death and resurrection, recognizing that through him, you have eternal life and forgiveness of sins.
- Commit to following Jesus wholeheartedly, surrendering your will to his and seeking to live in obedience to his teachings.
- Remember, this worksheet is designed to guide you in exploring your identity in Jesus and finding personal purpose. Feel free to adapt and personalize it to suit your specific needs and preferences.
Rev. Stephanie Clark Session 3 Handout
by Rev. Stephanie Denise | Feb 1, 2024 | Rediscovering Purpose
Introduction
Grief is a complex and deeply personal journey that often accompanies the loss of loved ones. As a caregiver, you have undoubtedly experienced the profound impact of death and the challenges it brings. However, amidst the pain and sorrow, it is possible to find purpose and embrace your feminine energy to attract love, light, goodness, and joy into your life. In this blog post, we will explore the healing process, the power of feminine energy, and practical steps to navigate grief while manifesting positivity.
1: Understanding the Healing Process
– Acknowledge and honor your grief: Allow yourself to feel the pain and sadness associated with loss. It is essential to give yourself permission to grieve and not rush the healing process.
– Seek support: Surround yourself with a strong support system, including friends, family, or support groups. Sharing your emotions and experiences with others can provide comfort and understanding.
– Practice self-care: Engage in activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. This can include exercise, meditation, journaling, or pursuing hobbies that bring you joy.
2: Embracing Feminine Energy
– Connect with your intuition: Feminine energy is closely tied to intuition. Take time to listen to your inner voice and trust your instincts. This will guide you towards making decisions that align with your true self.
– Cultivate self-compassion: Treat yourself with kindness and compassion as you navigate grief. Understand that healing takes time and allow yourself to process emotions without judgment.
– Embrace vulnerability: Vulnerability is a strength that allows you to connect with others on a deeper level. Share your story, fears, and hopes with trusted individuals, and allow them to support you on your journey.
3: Attracting Love, Light, Goodness, and Joy
– Practice gratitude: Focus on the positive aspects of your life and express gratitude for them. Gratitude helps shift your perspective and attract more goodness into your life.
– Surround yourself with positivity: Surround yourself with people, environments, and activities that bring you joy and uplift your spirits. This will create a positive energy that attracts more of the same.
– Set intentions and visualize your desired outcome: Use the power of intention-setting and visualization to manifest love, light, goodness, and joy. Imagine yourself surrounded by these positive energies and believe in their manifestation.
Conclusion:
While the journey of grief can be challenging, it is possible to find purpose and embrace your feminine energy to attract love, light, goodness, and joy into your life. By understanding the healing process, embracing your feminine energy, and practicing techniques to attract positivity, you can navigate grief while finding solace and purpose. Remember, healing takes time, so be patient and gentle with yourself as you embark on this transformative journey.
Finding Purpose,
Rev. Stephanie Denise
by Rev. Stephanie Denise | Dec 18, 2023 | Rediscovering Purpose
Leaving behind a corporate career to pursue your entrepreneurial dreams abroad can be a life-changing decision. It offers the opportunity to rediscover your purpose, make a meaningful impact, and create a successful business in a new environment. In this blog, we will explore the steps to starting a business in Ghana or Rwanda, two countries in Africa that are known for their growing economies and entrepreneurial ecosystems. By following these steps, you can embark on a journey of rediscovery and find fulfillment in building a business that aligns with your passions and expertise.
I. Researching the Market
Before diving into the world of entrepreneurship, it is crucial to thoroughly research the market in Ghana or Rwanda. This involves understanding the local culture, consumer preferences, and economic conditions. By conducting market research, you can identify potential gaps or opportunities where your skills and expertise can make a difference. Additionally, studying the competition and analyzing market trends will help you position your business effectively.
II. Identifying Your Passion and Expertise
Rediscovering your purpose involves identifying your passion and expertise. Reflect on your interests, skills, and experiences to determine what truly drives you. Starting a business that aligns with your strengths and interests will not only increase your chances of success but also bring you fulfillment. Consider how your skills can address a specific need in the market and create value for your target audience.
III. Networking and Building Relationships
Establishing strong connections with local entrepreneurs, professionals, and potential customers is crucial for success abroad. Attend industry events, join business associations, and engage with the local community to build a network of support and gain insights into the local business environment. By nurturing relationships, you can find mentors, collaborators, and customers who can contribute to the growth of your business.
IV. Developing a Business Plan
A well-structured business plan is essential for guiding your entrepreneurial journey. It should outline your goals, target market, competitive analysis, marketing strategies, financial projections, and operational details. A thorough business plan will serve as a roadmap, helping you stay focused and organized as you navigate the challenges of starting a business abroad. Seek feedback from mentors or advisors to refine your plan and ensure its viability.
V. Securing Funding
Determining the financial resources required to start and sustain your business is a critical step. Explore various funding options, such as personal savings, loans, grants, or partnerships. Research local financial institutions and government programs that support entrepreneurship in Ghana or Rwanda. Prepare a compelling business case and financial projections to attract potential investors or secure loans.
VI. Adapting to Local Regulations
Understanding the legal and regulatory requirements for starting a business in Ghana or Rwanda is essential. Consult with local experts or legal advisors to ensure compliance with local laws, licensing, and tax obligations. Adapting to local regulations will help you establish a strong foundation for your business and avoid any legal pitfalls. When beginning our NGO in Rwanda we secured a Rwandan Attorney who helped us navigate the process and even enlisted him as Power of Attorney to sign documents when unable to be on the Continent of Africa.
VII. Building a Strong Team
Surround yourself with talented individuals who share your vision and can contribute to the success of your business. Hire employees or collaborate with local partners who have the necessary skills and knowledge of the local market. Building a strong team will help you overcome challenges, leverage diverse perspectives, and drive innovation. Your Team will also help you . Together you create a win for all.
VIII. Embracing Cultural Sensitivity
Respecting and adapting to the local culture, customs, and business practices is crucial when starting a business abroad. Building strong relationships with local stakeholders will help you navigate challenges and gain trust within the community. Embrace cultural sensitivity by learning the local language, understanding social norms, and incorporating local values into your business practices.
IX. Marketing Your Business
Develop a robust marketing strategy to create awareness and attract customers. Utilize both traditional and digital marketing channels, such as social media, local advertising, and partnerships with influencers or local media outlets. Tailor your marketing messages to resonate with the local audience and highlight the unique value your business offers.
X. Continuously Learning and Evolving
Stay open to learning from your experiences and adapt your business strategies as needed. Embrace feedback, monitor market trends, and be willing to pivot when necessary. Continuous learning and evolution are key to staying competitive and sustaining your business in the long run.
Rediscovering purpose after leaving a corporate career and starting a business abroad in Ghana or Rwanda requires careful planning, adaptability, and a strong sense of purpose. By following the steps outlined in this blog, you can embark on a fulfilling journey of entrepreneurship, creating a successful business that aligns with your passions and expertise. Remember to research the market, identify your passion and expertise, build strong relationships, develop a comprehensive business plan, secure funding, adapt to local regulations, build a strong team, embrace cultural sensitivity, market your business effectively, and continuously learn and evolve. With determination, resilience, and a clear sense of purpose, you can find success and fulfillment in your entrepreneurial endeavors abroad.
Rediscovering Purpose,
Rev. Stephanie Denise
