Tag: christian

Branding/

How to Create Content with Confidence

You’ve probably heard the marketing gurus talk on social media about the power of content creation – which is the behind the scenes work every entrepreneur or blogger does to help define who they are to what they do.

It’s all the rage these days, and for a good reason! But let’s be real, it can also feel super overwhelming with all the information out there.

I’m sure you even took a deep breath before clicking on this article. For one, deep down inside you know that you want to muster up the confidence to create compelling content for potential clients or customers.

Afterall, it’s part of the foundation that gives your brand a unique identity and voice. For instance, think about your favorite Instagram pages. What’s your immediate thought? How do the color schemes speak to you? Carousels? Reels? All of these were produced with intention though the creative process of content creation.

Now, although the process of creating is different for all of us, the methods are quite similar. I often think about ways to engage a potential customer/client, but I know that’s not all it is to it when creating content. Creating content with confidence goes beyond the end goal. There are the in between processes you have to take into consideration. I love being intentional about what I produce. Staying true to my faith is important so I’m mindful of trends as well.

And personally, I’m most authentic when I share details in content that’s encouraging or inspiring, entertaining and informational that will benefit one of my customers or followers. As for confidence? Well, my confidence to create content grew over time. Initially, I felt like I didn’t know what I was doing. I know in my heart that I wanted to make sure whatever I shared on a social media platform wasn’t stuffy but relatable.

So, as a Virtuous Creative in business, how do you come to the place of creating content with confidence? Well for one, you should always be lead with prayer before action. And by the way, you don’t have to wait as long as I did to create content in your business.

Confidence comes from within. Know that God has equipped you with everything you need to succeed. So, trust in His plan, believe in yourself, and let that your confidence shine through in every piece of content you create.

Start with prayer. Once you take that first step, the Lord will guide you. In addition to prayer, consider the following tips that I’ve learn overtime from my own personal journey:

Know your brand identity – Your brand identity is the visible element of your business. This includes name, logo, colors and design. When you know your identity, the vision for your brand will come quite easy.

Make a plan – Schedule time to brainstorm and jot down ideas. Sometimes we find inspiration from other platforms like Pinterest and Tumblr. Make a plan to create content that will help convey your brand’s voice and vision.

Try it out – Use wisdom when trying out different methods. Every trend is not meant for you. If there is something that you have researched that sparks your interest and aligns with your vision, try it out. We sometimes receive good feedback but do not feel discouraged if you do not receive the outcome you hoped for. Do it scared and do it brave. Don’t be afraid to create your own trend.

Be consistent – Consistency goes hand and hand with making a plan. Scheduling time helps with being consistent also. The goal of consistency will show your community that you are trustworthy and you that you are serious about your brand and business.

Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Take risks, try new things, and push those boundaries. Remember, growth happens when you dare to be bold. You never know what incredible opportunities might come your way!

Content creation is your labor, your work of heart that should not be in vain. Yes, it can feel overwhelming at times, but remember, each step you take is a seed planted in the fertile soil of your brand’s growth. Every piece of content you create is a testament to your journey, your faith, and your brand.

Look, the journey of content creation is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s a process of discovery, of finding your voice in this noisy digital world and staying true to your faith. Like the Apostle Paul wrote in Corinthians, “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.”

So, start now. Don’t wait another day to let your voice be heard. Your audience is waiting to connect with your brand’s amazing products or services. And guess what? The world needs the unique light that only you can shine.

Entrepreneurship/

Grace Over Guilt: 12 Questions to Help You Keep Boundaries in Business

When I started my copywriting and brand storytelling business, I wasn’t great at setting or maintaining boundaries. I’d let people book meetings with me at any time during the week and I’d find myself working on tasks that weren’t initially part of our agreement. But over time, I learned the importance of guarding my calendar, making sure that everyone stuck to the outlined scope of work – and that my communication methods were clearly understood.

These days, any meetings on my calendar can only be on Tuesday-Thursday between the hours of 11-5. Why? Because I need my mornings to focus on my best writing and strategy work. And let’s be real, who likes Monday meetings anyway? As for Fridays, I like to reserve those for working on my marketing content and admin tasks for my business, online magazine, and personal brand.

Entrepreneurship can be challenging, but it’s even more difficult without healthy boundaries. Trust in God’s plan for your business and prioritize your well-being along the way.

Now, setting boundaries isn’t always easy, especially when it comes to guilt. And if you’re a people-pleaser, it’s natural to feel guilty when saying no or setting boundaries. However, it’s important to let go of those feelings and remember that you’re not being selfish, you’re prioritizing your own needs. This is exactly why I want to help you get through this with these questions. I’d highly recommend grabbing a notebook to journal out the answers.

Inviting the Holy Spirit your boundary-setting process

  • What does it mean for you to invite the Holy Spirit into your work as an entrepreneur?
  • How do you currently incorporate prayer and discernment into your business decisions?
  • In what ways do you feel the Holy Spirit has already guided you in your business, and how can you lean on that guidance in your boundary-setting process?
  • What specific boundaries do you need to set right now, and how can you ask the Holy Spirit to help you discern what those boundaries should be?

Letting go of guilt 

  • Have you ever received pushback from clients or team members when setting boundaries in your business?
  • What specific boundaries did you set that made you feel guilty, and why?
  • How did those guilty feelings impact your sense of self-worth, and what truths from the Bible can you draw on to counteract those feelings?
  • What steps can you take to let go of guilt when setting boundaries in the future?

Prioritizing rest in your business 

  • What does rest look like for you, and how can you include more rest into your daily and weekly routines?
  • What specific boundaries do you need to set to prioritize rest, such as scheduling regular days off or setting boundaries around work hours?
  • What tasks or responsibilities can you delegate or outsource to make more time for rest?
  • How can you communicate your boundaries around rest to your clients or team members, and how can you reinforce those boundaries when they’re challenged?

Don’t let the fear of disappointing others keep you from setting boundaries in your business. Your time and energy are precious, and you deserve to use them in ways that bring you joy and fulfillment!

Hopefully, these questions are helpful for you to reflect on. And listen, please note that you’re having boundaries isn’t a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of strength and self-care. Also, remember that it’s not a one-time event.

Setting and maintaining boundaries takes practice, patience, and self-awareness to establish and maintain healthy boundaries in your business. And get this? When you prioritize your own well-being, you’ll be better equipped to serve others and make an impact with the gifts God has given you.

Entrepreneurship/

Rising Above: Conquering Comparison and Envy as a Christian Creative

We all know that the entrepreneurial journey can be tough, but it can be especially challenging when we compare ourselves to others and fall into the trap of envy.

But as a Christian woman, you have the power to rise above these negative thoughts and emotions and embrace your unique path. Here are some practical tips to help you deal with comparison and envy in your entrepreneurial journey:

1. Lean on your faith. Remember that you are a child of God and that He has a special plan and purpose for your life.

  • Start each day by reading a short devotional or scripture that focuses on your identity in Christ and the love that God has for you.
  • Turn to prayer when you feel overwhelmed by comparison and envy. Ask God to give you peace and to help you trust in His plan for your life.
  • Surround yourself with supportive Christian friends and family members who will encourage you and lift you up.

2. Celebrate your unique qualities and gifts. You have been blessed with unique qualities and gifts that make you who you are.

  • Make a list of your strengths and the qualities that make you unique. Reflect on these regularly and embrace your individuality.
  • Celebrate your successes and accomplishments, no matter how big or small. Allow yourself to feel proud of your hard work and dedication.
  • Focus on your own journey and what you’re doing, rather than comparing yourself to others.

3. Practice gratitude. When we focus on the blessings in our lives, it helps us shift our perspective away from negative thoughts and situations.

  • Take time each day to reflect on the things you’re thankful for and express gratitude. Start a gratitude journal where you can write down three things you’re thankful for each day.
  • Practice mindfulness and being present in the moment. Pay attention to the little things in life that bring you joy and contentment.
  • Make an effort to express gratitude to those in your life who bring you joy and happiness. This could be sending a thank you note, a text message, or simply telling them in person.

4. Seek support. Building resilience is easier when you have a supportive community.

  • Consider seeking out a mentor or accountability partner who can offer guidance, support, and encouragement.
  • Look for someone who has experience in your industry or has faced similar challenges in their entrepreneurial journey.
  • Join a support group or community of like-minded Christian women entrepreneurs. Connect with others who are on the same journey and can offer encouragement and support.

5. Embrace your uniqueness. Embrace your unique qualities and gifts, and trust in the path that God has for you.

  • Embrace your passions and the things that bring you joy and fulfillment. Allow your creativity to flourish and make time for the things that bring you happiness.
  • Take time to reflect on your values and what’s important to you. Embrace your beliefs and make choices that align with your values.
  • Trust in God’s plan for your life. Remember that He has a special purpose and plan for you, and that everything happens for a reason. Embrace the journey and trust that it will lead you exactly where you’re meant to be.

So, my dear sisters in faith, embrace your journey and celebrate your uniqueness. You are a masterpiece created by God, and there is no one like you. Embrace your gifts and trust in His plan for your life and watch as He blesses you beyond your wildest dreams.

Entrepreneurship/

5 Ways to Overcome Challenges in Your Entrepreneurial Journey

As women of faith, we know the power of relying on our Lord and Savior to guide us in our journey. But even with the support of our faith, it’s easy to feel discouraged and overwhelmed when faced with challenges and setbacks in our entrepreneurial journey. That’s why it’s important to build resilience – the ability to recover quickly from difficulties and bounce back stronger.

Here are some practical tips to help you build resilience and overcome challenges in your entrepreneurial journey:

Lean on your faith. The foundation of resilience is having a strong faith and trust in God. Make time every day to connect with your faith through reading scripture, prayer, and surround yourself with supportive people who will lift you up and encourage you.

Celebrate your wins. No matter how small, it’s important to acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments. This will help boost your confidence and motivation and give you the strength to keep pushing forward.

Focus on gratitude. When we focus on the blessings in our lives, it helps us shift our perspective away from negative thoughts and situations. Take time each day to reflect on the things you’re thankful for and express gratitude.

Seek support. Building resilience is easier when you have a supportive community. Consider seeking out a mentor or accountability partner who can offer guidance, support, and encouragement. Surround yourself with people who will lift you up and cheer you on.

Take care of yourself. Resilience requires a strong mind and body, so it’s important to prioritize self-care. Make sure you’re taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional health by eating well, exercising, taking breaks, and getting enough sleep.

By incorporating these tips into your entrepreneurial journey, you’ll be building resilience and bouncing back from challenges with grace and determination. Remember, with faith, self-care, and a growth mindset, you can overcome anything that comes your way.

Now, keep shining and never give up on your dreams.

Self-Care/

For the Christian Creative: 5 Journal Prompts to Have on Repeat

It can be easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of running a business. But it’s important to take time to reflect on our faith and how it intersects with our work. One way to do this is through journaling.

Here are a few reasons why journaling can be particularly beneficial for Christian creative entrepreneurs:

Process your thoughts and emotions: Running a business can be emotionally and mentally demanding, and journaling can provide a space to process and make sense of your feelings. This can help you to stay centered and grounded, even when things get hectic.

Helps you reflect on your faith: As Christian creative entrepreneurs, our faith should be an integral part of our work. Journaling can help you to reflect on your relationship with God and how you are incorporating your faith into your business.

Provide clarity and direction: Journaling can help you to clarify your thoughts and gain perspective on your goals and priorities. It can also be a helpful tool for brainstorming and problem-solving.

Foster growth and Improvement: Reflecting on your successes and challenges can help you to identify areas for growth and improvement, both personally and professionally.

A form of self-care: Taking time to journal can be a form of self-care, helping you to relax and recharge after a busy week.

Now, let’s get into five prompts that you’re encouraged to have on repeat – to help you reflect on your faith and business.

1. What has been on your mind and heart this week? What has God been teaching you or revealing to you? This prompt is a great opportunity to process any emotions or thoughts you’ve had throughout the week. It can be helpful to write down any specific Bible verses or passages that have stood out to you, or any moments where you’ve felt particularly close to God.

2. Reflect on your successes and challenges this week. What have you learned from both? How can you apply these lessons in the future? It’s important to take time to celebrate our accomplishments, but it’s also valuable to learn from our mistakes and challenges. Reflecting on both the highs and lows of the week can help us to grow and improve as business owners.

3. What are some things you are grateful for this week? How has God blessed you and provided for you? Gratitude is a key component of a healthy faith life. Take time to write down specific things you are thankful for, whether they are related to your business or not. This can help to put things in perspective and remind us of all the ways God is at work in our lives.

4. How have you incorporated your faith into your work this week? What are some specific ways you have sought to honor God in your business? As Christian creative entrepreneurs, our faith should be a central part of how we do business. Reflect on the ways you have tried to honor God through your work this week. This could include things like praying for clients, being honest and fair in your dealings, or using your talents to glorify God.

5. What are some specific things you can pray for as you look ahead to the next week? Are there any specific goals or tasks that you need wisdom or guidance on? Prayer is a powerful tool for Christian creative entrepreneurs. Take time to write down specific things you can pray for as you look ahead to the next week. This could include specific challenges you are facing, goals you are working towards, or anything else that is weighing on your mind.

Hopefully these are helpful for you. I personally have 3 journals. Maybe these types of journals can help you as well:

Morning journal: A morning journal can be a great way to start your day by focusing your thoughts and setting intentions for the day ahead. Free writing in your morning journal after reading the Bible can be a helpful way to process any thoughts or insights that you gained from your time in scripture.

Nightly gratitude journal: Writing down three things you are grateful for each day can be a powerful way to cultivate an attitude of gratitude and focus on the positive aspects of your life. This type of journal can be especially helpful when you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed, as it can help you to reframe your perspective.

Self-care project journal: A self-care project journal can be a great way to track your progress and stay motivated as you work on taking care of yourself. You might use this journal to write down self-care activities that you have completed, set goals for yourself, or simply reflect on your self-care journey.

Journaling is a great way to process your thoughts and emotions, and these prompts can help you to reflect on your faith and how it intersects with your work as a Christian creative entrepreneur. Take some time to journal at the end of each week,and see how it helps you to grow in your faith and your business.

Faith/

Overcoming Negative Thought Patterns

Do you struggle with negative thought patterns that leave you feeling stuck and overwhelmed?

If so, you’re not alone. I totally get it!

Many of us struggle with negative thought patterns that can be difficult to break free from. But the good news is, there are things you can do to overcome negative thought patterns and find freedom in Christ.

I believe that it is so important for Christian entrepreneurs to overcome negative thought patterns and focus on the good that they can do in the world. By doing so, we can not only achieve our own goals but also inspire and uplift others around us.

Here are a few tips:

Identify your negative thought patterns: The first step in overcoming negative thought patterns is to identify them. Pay attention to the negative thoughts that come up for you, and try to notice patterns. This can be helpful in understanding the root causes of your negative thoughts, and finding ways to address them.

Reframe your negative thoughts: Once you’ve identified your negative thought patterns, try reframing them. This means taking a negative thought and finding a more positive or neutral way to view it. For example, instead of thinking “I’m a failure,” try thinking “I made a mistake, but that doesn’t define me as a person.”

Practice gratitude: One of the best ways to overcome negative thought patterns is to practice gratitude. Focusing on the good things in your life can help counterbalance negative thoughts, and can help shift your perspective to a more positive one.

Seek support: Don’t be afraid to seek support from a pastor, therapist, trusted friend, or family member. Talking through your negative thoughts with someone you trust can be helpful in breaking free from them.

Turn to Christ: Finally, remember that Christ is the ultimate source of freedom and healing. Lean on Him in your struggle with negative thought patterns, and trust in His love and grace to carry you through.

Remember, overcoming negative thought patterns is a process, and it may take time and effort. But with patience, persistence, and the help of Christ.

Curious about what I’m learning every week on my creative journey as it relates to faith, self-care, and entrepreneurship?

Click here subscribe to my weekly newsletter, “Letters for the Virtuous Creative.”

Faith/

A Letter to My 15-Year-Old Self on My 35th Birthday

Dear Danielle,

Some things will never change…

You still love to cozy up with a GOOD book, journal, and pen. These have always been your go-to’s for either learning something new or dumping your thoughts out onto paper.

These days, you’ve added coffee or tea into the mix.

But you know what’s really changed?

Your faith in the Lord. While it’s always been strong, it’s stronger than you’d ever imagined. I recently picked up a journal that you kept while you were in the 10th grade – and OMG! You were so bold and brave in your faith.

During that same year, your dad left this earth. That was the first time you met grief. It was such a tough time. It left you incredibly sad for most of your junior and senior years.

But you made it through – with the help of God’s unchanging hand and your mom.

Speaking of your mom, while year 35 is exciting to embark on, she’s missing on this earth too now, right along with your dad.

But I’m so proud of you because you’re harvesting the seeds they planted inside of you. I believe they’re sincerely proud of the 30’s version of their daughter.

You’re continuously bold in your faith, keen on boundaries, and taking care of yourself every day – so that you can show up to operate in your God-given purpose.

Speaking of purpose, you probably thought you’d be a TV reporter forever, right?

Nope. Do you remember those days – in between cheerleading practice, where you spent dreaming of being a writer too…

Well, guess what?

You have an entire copywriting and storytelling business. You’ve literally taken your passion for writing and skills from TV news – and packaged it up to serve other people who want to stand out in business.

You’re amazing!

Not only that, but you’re also generously serving other Christian women through your digital magazine, blog, and podcast. You’re making an impact and serving in a way that brings you so much joy. You also wrote about this in your journal back in the day.

Since those teenage years – you’ve had a continuous growth mindset and heart of gratitude.

Danielle, you’re so brave! And you may be small, but you’re so mighty!

Again, you’re amazing!

May you have a blessed and beautiful 35th birthday!

Want more insights from Danielle about how to show up boldly in business and everyday life as a Christian woman creative?
Subscribe to her official email list where you’ll receive weekly letters in your inbox. 
Click here to subscribe to Danielle’s official email list. 
Faith/

Daughter of God, How Much Are You Worth?

How much are you worth?

Clothes? We make sure they are protected. We make sure they are free of wrinkles.

Hair? We make sure each strand stays in its rightful place. Makeup? For many of you, it’s essential to have a flawless face no matter how much it costs you. Your self-worth? That’s where many of you stop and neglect the most important thing.

There are so many that aspire to be the Proverbs 31 woman but lack the true meaning of this woman.

She’s undoubtedly strong but today we see a generation of women that hide behind so many things, constantly comparing themselves to the next woman instead of growing in God’s word, gaining wisdom and knowledge.

It’s either a game of comparison among other women or trying to prove to a man that you are worth his time.

Whether you are in college or a woman well into her 30s you know what I’m referring to. Whether you are a married woman with children or a single woman with children, you are aware of the uncertainties and the constant need to be better than the next woman.

Why?

You are God’s daughter and there should be no comparison and no searching for worth in another human. When we truly sit at the feet of the Lord we realize this and are humbled to become the daughter God has made us to be.

Here are a few truths for you to remember:

“For she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold. She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor.” – Proverbs 3:14 – 16

“But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” – 1 Samuel 16:7

“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well” – Psalm 139:13-14

REFLECT

What are you masking right now? Is it self-doubt or past pains? Give those worries and thoughts to the Lord and focus on the important things. Are you settling for less in a relationship? Dig deep in God’s word to realize your worth. You are a queen and a daughter of the most high!

Entrepreneurship/

Why Do We Overcomplicate Our Goals?

Overthinking is the worst!

So often in life, we get too caught up in the “what ifs.”

OR…

We make stuff too complicated.

I’m sure you can relate.

And while I’ve always been a person who is never afraid to take action, I was stuck overthinking whether or not I should actually publish a podcast in my copywriting and brand storytelling business.

I knew I needed to…

But some sort of weird doubt started creeping in.

Whew!

Fortunately, I got real with myself and gained tons of clarity through prayer and reflection on one of my walks. 

And now, it’s here – after sitting on my laptop for over a year.

The Storytelling Meets Branding Podcast is the hub for powerhouse coaches who want to boldly amplify their brand using the power of storytelling.

These weekly chats bring me so much joy.

And by the way, you’re welcome to tune in.

Click here to start listening to The Storytelling Meets Branding Podcast. 

 

Entrepreneurship/

These Are My Tried-and-True Productivity Tips

TIME…

Some people may argue, that there isn’t enough time in the day or our weekends should be much longer.

But here’s the reality: We must prepare our minds to use our time differently.

It’s certainly easy for us to fall in the traps of distraction these days – from our phones to the neverending feeds of information online. If we’re not careful, we could find ourselves in a swamp of idleness.

I’ve personally deleted Instagram during the day from my phone – and blocked other social media platforms from my laptop to stay focused.

Now, hopefully, these 5 tips will help you boost your productivity, once and for all.

1. Start the day in prayer. Allow prayer to be the first thing you turn to when waking up. Not your phone. Talk to the Lord and find hope in him before you start another day. I promise you will feel less frazzled and better equipped for the day.

2. Read a daily devotional. Right now, I’m reading Paul David Tripp’s “New Morning Mercies” daily devotional. It’s amazing! For myself, reading a devotional in the morning gives me more peace. I also highlight some sections that I read to come back to for further study later that night.

3. Journal your thoughts away. Journaling provides clarity – clearing out all those thoughts that are piled in your head. Grab a journal and just write. It doesn’t have to be perfect and no one has to see it. Write your goals for the day, scriptures, etc.

4. Speak positivity in the air. Going back to your journal – look at the scriptures you’ve written and say them aloud. Just like everything mentioned above, it will boldly prepare you to tackle your day.

5. Listen to a Christ-centered podcast. I have a long list of these podcasts but my absolute favorite right now is “Revive Our Hearts” with Nancy Demoss Wolgemuth. I can count on a daily message that encourages, empowers, and equips me for the day. Do a search for Christian podcasts and see what pops up for you. Make sure it’s biblically sound. Listen as you’re getting ready or while driving.

I hope these tips help if you’re not already in the habit of doing them. If they are, feel free to let me know!

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