We are thrilled to launch the very first episode of Selfie Sunday in 2025 with a truly inspiring guest, Jessica Wiley, an emerging voice in literature who is redefining empowerment through her journey and new devotional, “Poetic Expressions: Words of Encouragement to Get You Through.” This episode is a window into Jessica’s world, one that transitions from her humble beginnings in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, to her roles as an esteemed author and educator.
The narrative of our first guest conversationalist for the year is one of resilience and authenticity. She opens up about her career as a special educator and shares how poetry and music have been her guiding lights through life’s challenges, such as bullying and family adjustments. Her story is a testament to finding one’s voice despite the noise and the importance of maintaining personal boundaries while juggling multiple roles, including that of a mother and a professional.
You’ll hear how she balances preserving personal identity within familial responsibilities, capturing the struggle and the triumphs that come with the many roles we find ourselves in. Communicating the necessity of personal space and embracing imperfections are central themes, highlighting that perfection is not the end goal—growth is.
One of the key takeaways from our conversation is that you, Constant Listeners, are “pregnant with possibility.” It’s up to you to recognize that every experience—be it joyous or challenging—contributes to your personal growth.
Join us for this 🔗 Empowering Episode 🔥Sunday (Yes! #SuperBowl Sunday) @ 5 p.m. CST and become inspired by Jessica’s story—a story steeped in hope, courage, and the transformative power of words.
Connect with Jessica on her🔗 Facebook page and stay tuned for more insightful conversations on #SelfieSunday w/#OneDegreetoVictory.
Remember to Love Yourself a Little More than you did Yesterday! I love ya’ll 💜
Joy, Constant Listener, is more than a passing feeling. Real, deep Joy is a power source. It's a strength that carries you, a compass that guides you through life's toughest times.
Here at One Degree to Victory, we know the true power of Intentional Joy - the kind you choose, the kind you practice. Joy does much more than lift your spirits. It lifts YOU. It changes how you see the world. It's the fuel for your personal growth, helping you become the best YOU that you can be. So, Choose Joy. Practice Joy. BE Joy.
Through the lens of the Where's My Stuff framework—Strength, Transformation, Understanding, Faith, and Freedom, Joy is a necessary tool for empowerment. Strength through joy gives you resilience; transformation through joy inspires growth; understanding leads to empathy and connection; faith fuels your purpose, and freedom frees your spirit. Choose to build your life around this unwavering force and let it guide you toward the extraordinary.
The Strength of Joy in Adversity
There's a POWER in joy, a strength that QUIETS the noise around us. It's a muscle, toughening up with every joy-filled moment. It's an ANCHOR, holding you steady in a sea of gratitude. It's a STRONG stance against your struggles. It's a SPACE to blossom. Joy focuses on the GOOD, no matter how small, and finding the strength to keep moving FORWARD.
Joy as a Catalyst for Transformation
Joy is the POWERHOUSE that propels you from just getting by to truly thriving. When you welcome joy into your life, it becomes your compass pointing to your TRUTH. It reconnects you with your PURPOSE, your PASSIONS, your PEOPLE. It dares you to step out of your comfort zone, to take risks that matter, to chase the life you deserve. It helps you focus your energy on what truly deserves your attention. So invite joy in. Let it TRANSFORM your life.
Joy as a Bridge to Connection
When you welcome JOY into your life, it becomes your secret superpower for forging deeper, more meaningful connections. Imagine joy as a bridge, a pathway that allows you to share your true self and connect with others. It's the key to UNDERSTANDING that your personal growth and liberation are tied to those around you. Live joyfully! Spread it far and wide.
Faith and Joy: Companions in Purpose
Unshakeable joy is rooted in Faith. You've got the COURAGE to step boldly into the unknown, trusting that this journey, with all its unexpected twists, is taking you somewhere profound. Find JOY in faith! It's a powerful act of total acceptance, a way of saying, "I trust that I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be, and I'm going to celebrate the blessings right in front of me."
Breaking Free Through Joy
Choose to revel in the JOY of your life. Break away from the chains of fear and circumstance and find your TRUE SELF at the intersection of happiness and liberation. By syncing your heart with joy, you shed the shackles of self-doubt, comparison, and the strive for perfection. This LIBERATION creates ripples; eventually, you'll come to realize that you are FREE from the hidden barriers of your comfort zone.
Joy: A Call to Action
Joy is both a gift and a practice. Granted, it's easy to embrace joy when life's all sunshine and rainbows. But what about those other, quieter times? Or when life hands you lemons? That's when you've got to dig deep and CHOOSE joy. It's hard work, no kidding, but oh so worth it. Visualize YOURSELF brimming with joy, so much that it spills over into EVERYTHING you do. That's the life we're inviting YOU to step into right here at One Degree to Victory.
Life's toughest knock-downs may send you into hiding, but remember, there's a YOU that's ready to bounce back. I've walked this path, tried to erase my own presence, but the NEW YOU has other plans. There's no going back to the old ways of thinking, the familiar patterns that once held comfort. Life has a way of moving us forward, and our task is to welcome the journey. So wave goodbye to the old, and open your arms to the NEW. It's time to grow, to explore, to find your JOY.
Here are seven tips to support the emergence of your TRUE, authentic SELF, as you embark on a new chapter.
- Turn Off the TV and Engage YourselfIn the thick of change, it's easy to lose yourself in a world of screens. But here's a thought: Switch OFF the distractions and dive INTO you. Write, cook, walk, breathe! This is YOUR moment, uninterrupted. It's the perfect time to reflect, to dissect where you ARE and where you WANT to be. It's a journey of SELF-DISCOVERY, and it's all about growth. So, engage with YOU. You might be surprised at the clarity that comes with it. Change and growth? They're in your hands.
- Experiment with Something New in the KitchenDive INTO a culinary adventure! How about Indian cuisine? I've ventured there, and it's more than just a change of pace; it's a FLAVOUR EXPLOSION! Cooking is a journey of discovery and an invitation to step beyond the familiar. It's not just about the food; it's about embracing CHANGE and savoring the deliciousness of NEW EXPERIENCES. So, what are you waiting for? Fire up those burners, and let's get COOKING!
- Learn a New Skill (Even if It’s Just a Curious Thought)Ever had that "What if...?" moment? That might just be the SPARK you need to ignite your new passion. Maybe it's clicking that camera shutter, nailing that yoga pose, or captivating a crowd with your words. Whatever tickles your curiosity, don't let it fade into the background. Chase it, no matter how tiny or unsure it may seem. Embracing the unknown is a powerful tool for personal GROWTH, boosting your confidence and propelling you towards even greater heights.
- Attend a Free Networking EventTake a CHANCE to GROW and CONNECT! You, yes, YOU, can step into a sea of fresh ideas and opportunities at FREE networking events! It might seem daunting, but remember, YOU'RE NOT ALONE in this journey. Unleash your potential and OPEN DOORS you never knew existed. Dive in and meet others who are riding their own waves of change. This is YOUR MOMENT. Grab it!
- Try Journaling About Who You Want to BecomeTransform your thoughts into something tangible. Grab a journal, and let's create YOUR future self. Picture this: What values are you living by? What habits have you nurtured? What goals are you smashing? This isn't about squeezing into a mold but about embracing the NEW YOU that's emerging as you leave the past behind. Use journaling to make this journey REAL. Let it guide you; let it inspire you. This is YOUR journey. Own it.
- Do Something Physical, Recreational, and Fun with FamilyGet out there and MOVE with the ones you LOVE! The NEW YOU want to embark on outdoor adventures that bond, heal, and energize. What about a leisurely walk around the block, a family picnic at the park, or a trip to the nearby lake? These are moments of CONNECTION and JOY, the building blocks of precious MEMORIES. Step outside and let life FLOW through you as you journey together into the NEW.
- Declutter Your Physical SpaceReimagine YOUR space, reimagine YOUR mind. Ever noticed how a messy room mirrors a messy mind? It's time for a fresh start. Out with the old, in with the new! Toss or donate the things that aren't serving YOU anymore. Just like you're doing with worn-out habits and thoughts. Let's get cleaning and organizing to bring back that sense of control. Feel the weight lift as you step into a decluttered space. A clean slate for a clear mind. Embrace this opportunity to FOCUS on what truly matters. Welcome to the NEW you.
This isn't about turning your world upside down in a day—it's about trying on new ways of being that fit the person you're becoming. Shed what's holding you back like an old, worn-out coat. Give yourself the permission to play, to try new things, to lean into your growth. The NEW YOU is ready to be unveiled. Time to step into the spotlight of your life with CONFIDENCE and clarity.
"Self-care is giving the world the best of you instead of what's left of you." - Katie Reed
Focusing on Balanced Beginnings
Self-care is so much more than mere indulgence; it's the art of nurturing our own physical, mental, and emotional health so that we can flourish daily from a place of inner strength and abundance.
While there are many opportunities to practice self-care throughout the day, this month, we're focusing on #BalancedBeginnings. We put ourselves first and fill our cups to the brim so that we can be ready to share with others without running dry.
You run the risk of running dry when:
- You consistently prioritize others' needs over your own, neglecting your well-being or,
- Traumatic circumstances and events become all-consuming, draining your emotional and mental resources.
The Importance of Self-Care
Self-care is not selfish. It's necessarily important! When we put our well-being first, we are stronger and more energetic. This translates as being UNSTOPPABLE with the dawn of each day.
There are three important reasons why you should make self-care a top priority:
- You Deserve It: The feeling you experience when practicing self-care is immediately transformative. Whether you jog, walk, journal, or meditate, you'll notice a natural glow within, reflecting the love and attention you've given yourself. Others notice it, too! You feel better, and it shows.
- Your Children are Watching: Liz Carlile (featured in the Stepping Stones newsletter this month-scroll to the end of this blog to subscribe) shares how, in a moment of overwhelm, she remembered and built on the wisdom her mother imparted to her as a child about self-care.
- You are Designed to be Fruitful and Multiply: Just as a tree cannot bear fruit without nourishment, you cannot produce and grow if you are emotionally, mentally, or physically drained. Self-care is tapping into your wellspring of energy from which you can draw to grow, create, and distribute.
Join Our Wellness Journey
Now, I'm super excited to share #BalancedBeginnings', this month's initiative- in collaboration with Kendall's Bodi Coaching, Empowered Designs, and One Degree To Victory. From mindful meditation practices to nourishing breakfast ideas and physical movement, we will explore various strategies to kickstart your day positively and commit to a more balanced and mindful life.
What You'll Learn:
- Cultivating Mindful Mornings: Discover how to transform your mornings into a peaceful and productive time. Establishing a routine that nourishes your body and mind will set a positive tone for the day ahead.
- Building Healthy Habits: Through guided workouts, meal planning, and daily affirmations, develop sustainable habits that support your overall well-being. These habits will not only enhance your mornings but also lay the foundation for a healthy lifestyle.
- Embracing Intentional Living: Learn to slow down, bring more intentionality into your daily life, and focus on what truly matters. By aligning your daily actions with your values and goals, you'll find more joy, reduce stress, and create a fulfilling life.
Get access to the"Sunrise September" Facebook group to begin your journey of self-discovery, healing, and empowerment. Together, let's make September a month dedicated to nurturing our bodies and souls. Click the link below to join our community of support and start your path toward a more balanced, mindful life today.
Additional Resources
JOIN➡️ #BalancedBeginnings
Click here to LISTEN ➡️to the latest episodes of the #OneDegreetoVictory PODCAST.
Want information in real-time? Don't forget Kendall will be stopping by for two special editions of #WaystoWinWednesday. Tune in to #OneDegreetoVictory on Sept 11 & 25.
Introduction
Nutrition plays a critical role in our overall well-being. This blog post explores how proper nutrition can aid in shaping our attitude and awareness and how it can influence our behavior and beliefs, leading to sustained transformation in ourselves and our circumstances.
Nutrition and Mental Health
One of the most profound ways nutrition impacts our lives is through mental health. A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals can enhance brain function and emotional stability. According to a study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, there is a direct correlation between diet quality and mental health. For women who have faced trauma, maintaining a nutritious diet can help mitigate symptoms of depression and anxiety, cultivating a more positive outlook on life.
Building a Strong Foundation for Attitude and Awareness
Proper nutrition doesn't just benefit physical health; it also lays the groundwork for a positive attitude and heightened awareness. Consuming foods that support brain health, such as leafy greens, nuts, and berries, can improve cognitive function and emotional resilience. This, in turn, allows for a more mindful and constructive approach to daily challenges. Enhancing one's diet is akin to fortifying the very geometry of life, providing the essential building blocks for a healthier, more vibrant existence.
Influence on Behavior and Beliefs
The foods we eat can significantly influence our behavior and beliefs. Nutrient-rich diets promote better mood regulation and energy levels, which can lead to more proactive and positive behaviors. For women, who often face unique societal pressures, a nutritious diet can serve as a powerful tool for maintaining emotional equilibrium and reinforcing positive self-beliefs. This shift creates a ripple effect, improving not only personal circumstances but also relationships and community engagement.
Conclusion
Proper nutrition is a key component in shaping attitude, awareness, behavior, and beliefs. For women who have experienced trauma, adopting a nutritious diet can lead to profound changes in mental health, emotional resilience, and overall quality of life. By understanding and embracing the connection between what we eat and how we feel, it is possible to create a more balanced and fulfilling existence.
