Danica Worthy: The "It" Factor

Have you met someone and you knew instantly they had “it”?

I’m not talking of a "Beyonce-it" or "Halle Berry-it"; but the type of “it” that moves you through words – touching down to the bare soul. I’ve read lots of inspirational works written by some of the best, and yet not one has ever spurred an immediate reaction of researching the author. Of course I wasn’t surprise to discover her surname was “Worthy” – a perfect name to this galvanizing writer.

I also had the pleasure to finally chat with this talent on the phone. We have talked of everything from: our work, to family, and to life in general. Our 90 minute conversation was more than a business call, but a relaxing conversation with two women sharing a common thread.

Imani: Danica, I'm so honored you have accepted the invitation to join me in the Pink Lounge -- welcome. First off, let me ask the question I ask all of my guest: What makes Danica Worthy the woman who she is today?

Danica: Great Question. I am a woman who has and will continue to transform. My life's experiences, family and those I've come in contact with all play a role in my womanhood. I hold many roles and each one I take seriously. I like to think that I AM another one of God's beautiful unique creations taking the world by storm.

Imani: With all of your distinguished titles: motivational speaker, substance/mental health counselor, spiritual counselor, and author, I'm interested of how spiritual counseling became a part of your journey, and what does a spiritual counselor actually do?

Danica: My grandmother was a spiritual counselor and I believe this gift was passed down. A spiritual counselor is one with great listening abilities who's objectives may be to help others define life's purpose, overcome obstacles, connect with their inner spirit, and or to define what spirituality means to them. It really is a personal journey that I am allowed to help guide someone on.

Imani: That's a powerful gift. So this innate ability has lead you to where you are today. As I've learned, some people are born with it and some aren't. Do you agree?

Danica: I believe we're all born with this gift some are in tune with it instantly, some are taught to tap into their inner spirit, and some never find it.

Imani: From what I read of your work, I say you are one of the most prolific writers I know. Having said that, at what age you knew you were a writer? And how did it lead you to write such motivating and inspiring work?

Danica: I began writing approximately the age of 14 in journals. I was writing as a means to express myself freely without judgement or getting into trouble (lol). Writing has always been a safe haven for me I could say what I wanted without reprimand. When I began to share my work and saw how it made others feel it led me into writing not only for myself.

Imani: Now you have recently had to face a challenge that many women face some time in their life, which is Breast Cancer. Share with the readers, not how you felt when you heard the diagnosis because it's pretty obvious hearing "cancer" and your name in the same sentence is like synonymous with "fear and anger"; but share how it changed you as a person, and the way you view the world now?

Danica: I was changed in how I looked at life. I realized what I knew as life could be over and I had not even touched the surface of fulfilling my life's purpose. I had lost friends who had suffered from the disease and I wanted to bring awareness to not only cancer but other issues as well. This experience taught me that awareness is a vital component when it comes to our health, treatment, funding, and resources.

"I realized what I knew as life could be over and I had not even touched the surface of fulfilling my life's purpose."

Imani: Physically, how are you feeling to this day?

Danica: I affirm that I am 100% healthy everyday. I believe as I develop that mindset my body will eventually follow. I have had many health challenges and have had to incorporate radical self care. I'm loving how we can visualize a thing and soon it will immediately follow.

Imani: Let's change the subject a bit, and talk about the anthology you have collaborated with other talented authors: Deidra DS Green, Tammie T. Bell-Davis, and Jamila Gomez. Tell us more about this project, and how did the ladies and you made this idea into a reality?

Danica: I met these ladies via social media and we were a fan of each other's work. As we began to build relationships, we wanted to put a project together at the conference call; we all agreed on the subjects Cancer/ Bullying. We all had been directly or indirectly affected by both.

Imani: Have you been a victim of Bullying? If so, did it ever create a self-conscious within you and how did you turn it around?

Danica: Yes! I chose the route of being a peacemaker or agreeing with everyone to stay safe. What I realized through awareness is that there are many types of bullying i.e. workplace, cyber, indirect, or mental. How I began to turn that around is by exposing the party involved. Bullies hide behind their toughness, and titles. When I mastered the art of becoming aware I understood that I can change anything.

 Imani: Our journeys are filled with the unexpected -- the highs, the lows, and at times wanting to succumb to the adversity and give up; but not you. Where do you find the strength to pursue your dream, despite life's challenges?

Danica: I believe I get my strength and resilient spirit from my mom. After experiencing loss after loss, health issues, depression I had to ask God for mental fortitude. I utilize all the tools I've accumulated over the years to get me through when I come face to face with challenges.

"After experiencing loss after loss, health issues, depression I had to ask God for mental fortitude. I utilize all the tools I've accumulated over the years to get me through when I come face to face with challenges"

Imani: As an artist, we have muses and person(s) we admire help shape our craft. So, who is your inspiration and if they were here now, what would you say to them?

Danica: Wow my dad and my grandmother. I would tell them thank you for their love, wisdom, and guidance. I would tell them that even though they're not physical here I have apart of them in my heart.

Imani: Tell us one thing you haven't shared with your readers. It can be a quirk, a favorite food, or a hidden talent. The floor is yours.

Danica: I am very shy so I created a alter ego to get me through those trying moments when the shy anxiety creeps up. I also think I was a comedian and singer in my past life lol.

Imani: Now on a relaxed note: If you were to plan a dinner party and have extended the guest list with three legendary figures (living or not), who would they be and what one question you would ask them?

Danica: I would invite Marvin Gaye, Maya Angelou, and Goddess Isis.

I would ask Marvin his thoughts on the world today.

I would ask Mother Maya for one wisdom nugget to carry me through my journey.

I would ask Goddess Isis for one ancient Egypt secret.

Imani: Finally, what future projects do you have in store?

Danica: I will be releasing my book Suffering In Silence as well as a ebook of Affirmations. I will be expanding my brand to further empower women to live a fulfilled life holistically with a voice that roars.

Imani:  Danica, as we conclude the interview, tell the readers where they can purchase, The Sisters' Fight, and your other work, as well as finding you on the web?

Danica: You can find me on:

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/DanicaInspiresTheInspirationalist?ref=bookmark 

Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/danicaworthy 

My website www.danicaworthy.com is forthcoming.

Share:

5 WAYS TO STAY MOTIVATED DURING SEASONAL CHANGES

By Danica Worthy

With all you've been through are you looking for ways to stay motivated? 

If so I have developed some tips that will help you navigate through your life's journey.

We have approach a new season this year; autumn. A time of full maturity,  or it's early decline. During this season the atmosphere changes it's appearance allowing one to appreciate a different type of beauty.

Gazing upon natures new aura take a moment and think of the changes you have experienced over the year. You may be moving to a new job, launching a new business, or restructuring an existing one. Whatever the project is it takes time and effort and along the way you can and will lose motivation.

So here is how I've been able to stay motivated as season changes and obstacles come.

1. Find your passion= Finding your purpose.

I can't say this enough find what your most passionate about doing and DO IT. The thing that brings you the most euphoric joy when your in the midst of it. Ask yourself how does doing what I love empower me and those I come in contact with. Finally ask yourself what tangible benefits will I see by doing what I love.

2. Build your confidence muscle.

This is a big one not everyone was born with the solid I am the bomb diggity muscle. Look in the mirror daily and feed yourself with positive affirmations this is a great way to believe in yourself and silence the negative enemy in your mind. Conduct a life assessment review all the things you've been through,  you will discover a strength bridge that brought you over.

3. Keep gaining experience.

As you conduct your life audit become aware of your skill set. What are you an expert at? Learn your skill by doing whatever you desire to do get out there and do it. Don't wait for opportunities create them and watch opportunities find you. Take courses that will expand your knowledge and invest in yourself.  I almost forgot connect with what resonates with you.

4. Build a support system

Connections are great when they leave you feeling empowered, inspired, and ready to take action. Find those who have been where you're trying to go and build a relationship.  Bring something to the table because in any relationship you must give and not only take.

5. Take joy in your journey.

With all your plans and dreams don't forget to experience joy. Have fun knowing that all roads lead to opportunity and more creation. Detach from how you think things should be and just enjoy the ride.

Connect with me on facebook for more post like these https://m.facebook.com/DanicaInspiresTheInspirationalist?ref=bookmark

Danica Nichole Worthy was born and raised in Rochester, NY. She is a spoken word artist, poet, writer, motivator, and inspirationalist. Danica was created to inspire others to excellence. A counselor specializing in substance abuse/mental health and spiritual counseling, she is a Humanitarian, and a member of several charitable organizations. Danica N. Worthy has been writing since the age of fourteen. Her messages are of hope, love, and the ability to succeed inspite of your circumstances. Danica has co-hosted "Straight to Truth", blog talk radio show, focusing on on relationship building. Worthy is currently working on a poetic anthology, her debut novel, and a book of inspirational poetry.  

Share:

BLOG BOOK TOUR: M'HOGANY

Symone Johnson, a 29 female Dr. Phil, is a well-known and successful counselor who thrives on helping troubled couples. With her simple approach, “Confess, Assess, and Address, then you can eliminate stress”

With two sisters married and with children, Symone faces the hardships of an overbearing mother whom takes it upon herself to play cupid with her life and won’t take no for an answer. Dating for Symone isn’t easy either, then again it never is for the daughter of a prominent pastor. Her life is under a magnifying glass being a member of the First Family. Every step she makes is scrutinized and judged, and she has to make daddy look good at all times.

When a forbidden love ensues, will Symone follow the word of GOD and live according to her overbearing parents, or will she follow the beat of her heart? No matter the choice, things are about to get real in the Johnson compound!

GET YOURS——> http://www.amazon.com/Sinful-Secrets-MHogany-ebook/dp/B00LQTR9V2/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1408367865&sr=8-2&keywords=sinful+secrets

About the Author: An ambitious young woman, born, bread, and raised in Dallas, TX, we introduce to you M’Hogany. From a very young age, she’s put thoughts to paper and let her creative side roam free. “I wasn’t like most girls keeping journals or diaries. Whatever I thought, I put to paper.” With a few poems suggested for publishing in her early childhood, she decided to pursue other venues of artistry. “Music is my life. I eat, sleep, and breathe all things musical. You can catch me singing almost anywhere.” As she embarks on the road of literature, she delves back into writing putting it all on paper.  Expect future works from this young writer and keep an ear at the ready as she embarks on her musical and literal endeavors.

Catch M’Hogany for the rest of her BOOK BLOG TOUR!

8/19/14 - www.jpsimmons.com

8/20/14- www.divasliteraryworld.blogspot.com

8/21/14- www.imaniwisdom.blogspot.com

8/22/14- www.facebook.com/LiteraryLiz

Share:

TRAPPED WITH MY EYES WIDE OPEN

Trapped in darkness with my eyes wide open
Feeling around like a lost little girl
in the vast, emptiness of this cruel world

Sadness is not defined by my blank stare
or the tears streaming down my face
staining my curly black hair
or the anxiety I feel in my heart
numbing paralysis
feeling like my soul is drifting apart

It’s an indescribable emotion
that some may not understand
They tell you to snap out of it
or just to bow your head with
praying hands

Unrealistic effortless emotion
is surreal is like a purple sun
Metastasize like a tumor
from your mind to your tongue

A whirlwind spinning out of control
falling rapidly in a deep black hole
You fight for every breath
even though your soul is alive
Suffocating intently
as you began to panic and cry

Wanting break free from this
Spiritual cancer
Shackling me down
where I can’t see the answer
Fearing of what lies ahead
through the darkness of
uncertainty
Needing to move on,
Needing to break free
Needing to once again to be
me

Trapped with my eyes wide open
Squirming away from the spiritual
adversary hold
Lingering for a new day
for this bruised and
tattered soul

Speculation is an old innovation
of trapped minds
Desolation is mere dust
envelop by the cruel hand
of time

My steps are as valiant
as lavender spring flowers
Revitalization is my essential
superpower

Sometimes the somberness
will always be a part me
Yet, the darkness….
will never, ever, defeat
me!

© 2009, Imani Wisdom

Pink Noire Publications, LLC

Share:

I Bend, But I Don't Break!

I once have had,

and now it’s gone

You can’t bring back

yesterdays,

or cry what has been

Echoes of old laughter

flood my mind

Despite the swelling feelings

brewing inside

Choose to run or hide

but I hold my head

up high..,

I smile

Stretchin’ that dollar

from fifteen cents

for bills

for food

for clothes

and yet sometimes

you just don’t know

when the unexpected

happens

Still, from all it said and done...

I smile

How can someone smile

despite waking to clouds

of uncertainty?

Staying optimistic when the rain

won’t stop,

or hurried winds sweepin’ your mood

How can anyone stay positive

when life is cruel?

Well, I don’t know ‘bout you,

but I smile

If darkness arise from nowhere

Lift your head unashamed

Weeping is temporary,

but joy comes in the morning

 You think you’re breakable

when in truth you only

bend

Straighten yourself up, my friend

and smile

How can anyone smile knowing

their life’s out of control?

Or question God’s intention

and significant role?

How can anyone continue to dream

when doors are jammed shut?

Or thing when goes awry and nothing

what it seems?

Or the proverbs of their words

taste bitter than sweet?

Yet there’s always a reason to smile .Nothing, no one, not even the worst of my enemies can stop the sunshine. I smile because I want to, not because I can. My smile represents my strength, my inner bond. It’s a shield against doubts, as well as signifying I’m charge of my life. As long as I have breath in this body, my defining moments will be the ones I create, and not the destructive thoughts from man. And that’s what freewill is about – making your choices. So, I choose a simplistic form of healing that never cost a dime; it’s effortless as you’re breathing right now – I choose to smile. 

©Imani Wisdom, 2013

Share:

How This Little Girl Coped With Awkwardness

I remembered being the shy and quiet kid in grade school that stayed to herself because being around people was an uncomfortable experience. My big, round head, skinny, iddy-biddy legs, and glasses with bifocals (yes, bifocals at five year old), didn't help my awkwardness. I got teased, horribly. And to add insult to injury, I had a speech impediment.

Yes, I was one of those students you would see in the movies who gets thrown in their locker; or get tripped by the class jocky-jerk in the cafeteria while carrying a tray of food; or become a victim of innovative name-calling (or joning, in my later academic years); or find herself isolated not because she wanted to, but because no one could connect with her. I mean, I even thought being left-handed was strange.

My escape from the cruel and unforgiving world at that time was my vivid imagination. Those very images of whatever or whoever was my solace, and safe to say, still is. But I’d often wondered the disconnect I had with others. Of course I had a friend or two, and then later in high school I hung with a small group of quiet and reserved students like me but not with the popular cliques. Looking back on it, I find myself in the midst of quiet company today. Perhaps I haven’t outgrown the awkwardness, just find it comforting.

This trend, if you want to call it that, frenzied through my adult years. The unforgettable twenties – a time period we thought we knew it all, and most likely tried to do it all. The unimaginable thirties, when life reminds you aren't twenty anymore. And of course, the forties, when you look back the last twenty years and ask yourself: “Did I really do that?”

For me when I look back and remembered the years of awkwardness, being uncomfortable in large crowds, or having me time like an event for the ages, I thought they were antisocial tendencies, a desire of not wanting to be around people. Then one day I read an interesting article about the traits of introversion and career choices.

Introversion, according to the Free Online Dictionary, is the directing interesting inwards towards one thought and feelings rather than towards the external world or making social contacts, or the act of directing one’s interests or to things within self. However in Imani’s world: I don’t see people or conversations in black and white; I see everything as an in-between, straight-forward without small-talk, and yet sit back and quietly observe the minute details of living things: The way people carrying themselves; such as, speaking, their body language, and even how they blink.

23 Signs You’re Secretly An Introvert

Are You An Introvert Or AnExtrovert? What It Means For Your Career?

In retrospect, I've done all of those things, including daydream my way through twelve years of grade, middle, and high school. My introverted personality became an open door to many opportunities. Sounds crazy, but it has.

Another thing I've learned is the difference between shyness and introversion. Shyness, according to Susan Cain of Psychology Today, wrote, “Shyness is the fear of negative judgment, and introversion is a preference for quiet, minimally stimulating environments”. The vast misconception of these traits isn't unusual. I didn't comprehend the definitions until later in my adult years, and even then I had the notion of introverted-souls were creepy for the outlandish.

Quiet: The Power of Introverts

Now that I've reached the fabulous age of forty-two, I've come to terms of who I am. I’m a lot more than just a writer and storyteller, but been blessed with a unique personality. I used to ask God what was wrong with me: Am I a defect. Why do I feel ill at ease around people?

But you know, I had to stop questioning His intention and live life. My introverted personality was by far no accident whatsoever! And it also don’t matter what others think, but how I respond.

Wouldn't it be something else if I go back in time to that bighead kid with skinny iddy-biddy legs, and look into her heavily-lined bifocals to tell her she isn't strange or awkward. Then I will also add: Continue to daydream and act out those daydreams into stories with your dolls. Because you just never know, your imagination could just payoff. 

Share:

What Do These People Know About Success?

Have you ever had – as one-time Queen of Talk would say – that “ah-ha moment’? Well mine felt more of a KAPOW between the eyes.

I was doing one of my morning rituals – reading from one of my favorite online newspapers, and low and behold, I became befuddled from the first line of an article – Success: What does it means to you?

As simple as this question may be, I knew I could answer it in one breath, but I couldn't. So I stared at the question, as though as my computer could reply for me – hoping anything would kindle a slightest idea or thought, but nothing.

I was so determined to answer this question that I prayed and meditated for an answer that would satisfy my heart. Then while doing my usual morning run it finally hit me – success should not be by its definition(s) alone. However, according to the Free Online Dictionary website:

1. The achievement of something desired, planned, or attempted: attributed their success in business to hard work.

2.

a. The gaining of fame or prosperity: an artist spoiled by success.

b. The extent of such gain.

3. One that is successful: The plan was a success.

4. Obsolete A result or an outcome.

These definitions are well and good, but it’s meaningless if it doesn't come from the heart. And that was the problem I had: No heart.

So I went to the wonderful, world of social media to ask others this same question. And the response I've received was tremendous. Here’s what some had to say:

From Facebook:

Ernie Eans says - Success to me means that I can wake up everyday and be able do what I want and need to do and be able to look at myself in the mirror and say Job well done at the end of the day!

Author C. Michelle Ramsey says - Success means that I am walking in the destiny that God has ordained for me. That each day I am making my difference in someone's life no matter how small it may be. It may come through a word of encouragement, inspiration and empowerment through my stories, or something that I did that affected someone. Success means that whatever, goals and dreams I have set for myself I am progressing towards accomplishing them.

Author Tamyara Brown says - I believe success is being able to support yourself financially but also be able to be blessing to someone else. Being able to still be humble no matter the awards or accolades while lending your hand of help to up and coming artist. Success means overcoming those days you cried, ate Ramen noodles and still persevered.

Gibran Tariq Ali says - After spending 35 years in some of the toughest prisons in the country, success, for me, is the acknowledgment that I survived some of the harshest conditions known to man and yet I never lost sight of my dreams.

Kat Blu says - Success for me means being able to live authentically, true to myself (my values, my convictions, my joys) without requiring a "thumbs up" from others to do it. It means prospering in a way that enriches my life and the lives of others (i.e, win-win) and leaving behind a legacy (no matter how small) that contributes to making the world a better place even after I've left this plane of existence. (Success also means the little daily efforts made to accomplish the above.)

Kai Kaiology Mann says - For me success means that I am living my life in the fullness there of. That I am able to be myself, not worry about the next person, run my own race, and know that I am doing all that I can do to live out my purpose.

Hasan Malik says - Success is the ability to be totally honest with yourself, realize your shortcomings, and the wherewithal to become a better you... Smarter, wiser, more in tune with the world around you, and use the accumulation of knowledge in past achievements and failures in order to master any endeavor or pursuit. A defeatist believes that the end or loss of something is a reason to give up... A forward thinking or success minded person believes that the end, loss or failure of something is a new beginning and an opportunity to perfect or do something better.

Author Angelia Vernon Menchan says - Success is staying true to the integrity of who I am and making a difference in the life of others. Every time a mentee says Ms. A thanks for being there and truly listening without judging, I'm successful.

Radio Host, Smooth Drama says - Success is being comfortable in your own skin and being able on the regular to appreciate all the blessings you have bestowed and been bestowed upon.

From Twitter:

@aothitis says - striving to spread love care and joy to especially the children and people of the world

@Chicki663 says - 2 me, success means being free 2 do what I love, creating stories readers love and getting financial benefit from my work.

However, Cheryl Wells- Gordon from Facebook said it best:

Success for me, is being able to look back and say, I accomplished everything I said I would! To touch those dreams that were so far away when I was younger. To have loved so much and have been loved by so many. Being able to remember the good, the bad and the ugly and what kind of person it has made me today. To the young people, success isn't only about money. It's what you have done to prosper in life.

After reading these great answers, I've come to my own conclusion about success. For me if you can wake up in the morning with no regrets, subject to failure; and yet back on your feet; look back on the past and understand it’s only the past; putting fear aside for new journeys; finding your happiness, learning to forgive, accepting responsibility, and making conscious and positive efforts to make changes in your life, then to me that’s success. 

So what about you? What does success mean to you? Share your answer in the comment section. Who knows I may repost or retweet it on Facebook and Twitter. 

Share: