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 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 dthey 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 individuals in the coming weeks, stay tuned.
Leanna Garcia | Artist
Keep your head up, always believe in yourself and never give up! Life is a crazy, beautiful ride. There will be lots of challenges that you will face on your journey, but with a little faith, you can do anything you set your mind to.
Laura Conely | Walking Wellness Coach | Founder Urban Path
Katya Horner with Slight Clutter Photography slightclutter.com
When you think you are facing insurmountable odds think again. There is always a way! It may be a difficult journey or a trip you didn’t choose or plan for -but the answer is always just take the next step. When we focus on today and take small, manageable, action we can get thru even the most challenging things. And sometimes we may choose a path that doesn’t work. That is ok, a wise therapist once told me, “Laura, sometimes you might take a step back but when you realize it you take two steps forward.”
Odds are for LasVegas not humans we are far to complex and have the power of choice and how we react to a situation.
Taking a walk in nature is always my first plan of action to process thru my choices- so take a deep breath and keep taking the next step!
urbanpaths.com
@UrbanPaths
@urbanpaths
Brian Luera aka DJ Gravity bka DJ Bee | Party DJ/Mobile DJ/Club DJ
The best advice I can give someone facing insurmountable odds is to remain focused, consistent and network with others who have a similar mindset. Individuals on the same frequencies will benefit from one another resulting in opportunities for growth and development. I believe there is no force as strong as a focused drive, so keep your eyes on the prize and remember your getting closer to your goal when the times get tough. If it were that easy everyone would do it, the real question is how bad do you want it.
@djbee713
@djbee713
mixcloud.com/brian-luera/
soundcloud.com/djbee713
djbee713.com
Allison Flake | Financial Planner & Golf Blogger
My best advice when facing insurmountable odds is to keep your head down and keep grinding. Usually, failure is a precursor to success. Keep the faith and keep going. My grandfather used to say, ‘it will all come out in the washing machine’ and this holds true to this day.
@Birdiesandbliss
birdiesandbliss.com
Taylor McGaughey | creative & lightworker
My advice for someone who feels like they are facing insurmountable odds would be that they should honestly buckle up because it’s a part of life and they’re just getting started. These past 3/4 years for me have been an absolutely journey of ups and downs. At some points it felt like there were more downs than there were ups until I realized I needed to change my mind set. Gratitude is something that everyone should have. Without being grateful for the blessings you’re surrounded by today, you’ll never be open to receive anything new. You can’t expect for a miracle to drop into your lap and change your world if you aren’t willing to put forth the effort to change your world yourself as well. So moral of the story would be to keep pushing. Whenever you feel like you can’t go anymore, go some more. Whenever you feel like times are dark, find a way to shine some light into your world. This is your dreamland and everyone else is living in it. Create it & live in it. It’s all up to you!
@taylormcgaughey
youtube.com/channel/UCvc2iDPrSofTzQj9kH1TfAg
@taylormcgayhee
Jadesola Olusina
If you are facing insurmountable odds, just keep pushing through. I really understand that at your low point the last thing you’d want to hear is ‘it gets better’ but it really does. Time heals a lot of wounds and like one of my favorite songs go ‘it’s always darkest before the dawn.’
Jesse B. Simple | CEO/Founder & Entrepreneur
I would first say a prayer, then begin to deal with what’s causing the insurmountable issues. Then set achievable goals to chip at the issues that are preventing you from reaching your goals. Next, remember that you are in control of the situation and saying no to something or someone is okay in order for you to succeed. Lastly, don’t give up or give in to the problems that you face. Remember you are a winner, and winners prepare to win at all cost.
simplebands4u.com
@jsimplebands
@jsimplebands
Yusa Yazar | The Owner of Garage Houston Automotive Customization Shop Specializing in Vehicle Wraps
Photo Credit: @bimerdude
Seeing the positive in events happening in your life has a crucial importance. Learning from mistakes, and motivation can be two examples for you.
As an architect, I got in and out several businesses, and always have seen the fact that my failures teaching me how to manage my business life, social life, relationship with people, and also the life itself. I might have spent some time and money to be successfull in my life and failed, but because of my failures, I have a lot of experience and usefull set of skills.
It is not always easy to stay motivated, but the motivation is the key factor stepping forward to success. See the positive side of your failure, and go to the next chapter of your life, because once you have failed on something, now you have experience. You know you can do it this time. And never forget, nobody gets the success in one step. Motivation will always give you the power of stepping forward.
Every dark night leaves its place to a bright and shiny day. Keep yourself motivated, learn to see positive in your failures!
@garagehouston
garagehouston.us
Shan Cathey | Fine Art Photographer
Photo Credit: Catty Visions Photography
My best advice for someone facing insurmountable odds is to stay focused, keep your eye on the prize, and to never forget the “why” you started your journey to begin with. Whether your goal is starting a new business, finishing school or getting a better job to support your family there will always be obstacles along the way. As a realist, I believe no one ever skips the “struggle phase” of life. We all go through hard times, unfortunately some more than others. There are times we may feel discouraged or feel like giving up, but as long as we’re completing the necessary tasks to accomplish our goals then the struggle will only be temporary, therefore one day, we will reap the fruits of our labor. We all wish life’s journey would be a straight, predictable path, but the road is dusty and windy. Furthermore, each path is our own. There will be days when we are fearful, insecure and feel lost. My advice for that is to simply get out of your head and refocus, keep pushing and never forget the “why.” Mistakes will be made but they are merely lessons where we gain strength and wisdom. We must also understand that there will be times when we only have ourselves to look to and that’s ok, though disheartening we must stay resilient, never buckle under pressure and keep the flame burning that ignited our fire to begin with. We must be willing to fight for ourselves even when no one else will, we will triumph in the end. Remember you are capable of success, deserving of all the great treasures life has to offer, and you’re worth fighting for. Never give up on yourself.
“You are good enough”
CattyVisions.com
@CattyVisions
@groups/CattyVisionsVIP
@cattyvisionsphotography
Kathleen Navarro | Model | Public Emissary, & former beauty pageant Queen
The best advice I can offer to anyone facing adversity is to just keep going. In each moment of my life where I have felt that I was finished or “done for” was merely just the beginning of something greater. In that moment, in the midst of the storm we are not able to see clearly. JUST KEEP GOING and NEVER sacrifice integrity for growth.
@kathleenavarro
kathleenavarro.com (coming soon)
Bria Dunn | Influencer & Entrepreneur
The best advice I would give to someone who feels they are facing insurmountable odds is to
#1 Never give up.
#2 Remember nothing is impossible.
#3 Pace yourself and give yourself time.
#4 Love yourself and always remember your value and worth!
@briadunnn
@boldbeautybybria
@briadunnn
Ashley Janae | Author & Life Coach
In the event that someone feels they are facing insurmountable odds, I would remind them of one simple truth: “Every house, is built brick by brick”. Keeping this truth in mind you can use the following steps to see your way out of an insurmountable odd.
Step 1: Honor the situation for what it is and allow yourself to feel each feeling associated with it
Step 2: Take a moment to shift your perspective to the best case scenario (how does it feel?, what does it look like?, etc.)
Step 3: Create an action plan that will help you obtain the best case scenario
Step 4: Break the plan down in small steps and execute these steps daily
Following these powerful steps will turn a problem from insurmountable, to manageable and solved by simply shifting your perspective.
Addie Allen | Owner and Senior Makeup Artist of Hey Doll Beauty
Photo credit : @laracatherinephoto
As someone who feels like they are currently facing insurmountable odds themself, I would say all you can do is to just keep TRYING. Don’t give up. The second you give up is when you let the odds win. Don’t let it, get back up on the horse and keep going because when you beat the odds you will feel so accomplished. Whatever the case may be, there is no mountain too high that you can’t tackle. Take a deep breath and ask yourself “what can I plan to overcome these odds?” and work out a game plan.
I have faced so many obstacles when it comes to my career, and my personal life. However, I haven’t given up yet even though I might’ve felt like it, and I’m still going strong!
heydollbeauty.com
@heydollbeautyteam
@Heydollbeauty
Sylvia Lucas | Lash Artist and CEO of SLS Lashes
Photo credits: @slslashes
God is always by your side and even though it may feel like everything is against you he’s redirecting your route to his purpose. So never give up because you’re right where you need to be.
slslashes.as.me
@slslashes
@SLS-Lashes
Christopher Palmer | Photographer
Whenever you feel as if you are in a situation that you can’t overcome always remember why you do what you do and push through to create your way out. The way out might not be the easiest way, but if you sit back and analyze everything, you can create your own way to overcome whatever comes your way.
christopherpalmerphotographer.com
@cpalmerphotos
Tiffany Curry | Real Estate Broker | Franchise Owner
Never give up! One of my favorite quotes, “It’s hard to beat a person who never gives up” by Babe Ruth speaks so many volumes to life. Rome wasn’t built in a day. Take your time, find yourself. You will always have ups and downs. The key is to enjoy the journey as you get to your destination. Life is not supposed to be perfect, instead it’s a journey where you have to navigate the waters to get to where you are going.
Chudi Chinweze | Owner & Chef
Photo Credit: All photography is done by me
When facing insurmountable odds, I always remember “TTNLTPD” Tough Times Never Last Tough People Do . My college coach Neil Dougherty, instilled this confidence in me at a young age and now I attack every obstacle in my life.
toostuffedkitchentx.com
@toostuffedkitchen
Brittany Sikes | University of Houston Communications major
Photo credits: staff at Santa’s Tavern
Allowing yourself to stop growing, evolving, and progressing is way more scary than any of the odds that may be against you. Your mind will always believe everything you tell it, so remind yourself that YOU are in control and that great things never come from comfort zones. Because the same walls that protect you now, become your prison later. Keep fighting for growth, always.
Davette Mundy | Instructor of Esthetics Specializing in Lash Extensions and Body Waxing
It’s been my experience, while on this Journey called life, that we will go through many hardships. During periods of hopelessness or disappointment, if you remain faithful in knowing that God has a plan for your life while continuing to push, things may turn out better than you could’ve ever imagined. It’s never how you start, but always how you finish. Tough times don’t last, tough people do.
Tanisha Hendricks | Business consultant | life coach | Director and model
Photographer: @deion_gray_
I would advise that person to take it one day at a time. Advising the person to set small goals and to take small steps towards that goal, even if they only reach 10% to celebrate that milestone. I would have them to appreciate the things that they have and experiences thus far in their life. Pace yourself and be gentle with yourself as you step forward and take a lesson approach instead of a loss approach. We go through things in life to gain growth through learning from those odds. Obstacles can provide self-growth, embrace the odds because those are life’s teachers. Most of all I would tell the person to ask for help because we are never alone there is always someone who has gone through what we are facing to a certain extent that can provide a feasible solution.
Tatiana Zelaya
To reach out to others that have faced similar obstacles. Asking for help is always useful , because you’re able to see the situation from a different perspective.
@tzproductions_
tz-productions.weebly.com
Sadra Kassaei | Freelance Photographer
“If I were you I would have just quit, the odds are against you.”
I remember hearing this sentence in my life many times in different ways. To me, the odds were never good in the first place; We have everything to win and not much to lose. Your feelings and what makes you happy are your best odds. Take good Care of them.
Stephanie Garner | Owner & Creative Director
Learn from your challenges and focus on the positives. You can achieve anything with consistency, discipline and determination. In order to overcome the odds, you have to make up in your mind that nothing is going to stop you from getting to your next destination. You may hit some potholes or go through detours, but you must keep moving forward. It starts in your mind and with what you tell yourself.
Erika Nelson | Realtor, The Bayou City Team
When you feel you are facing insurmountable odds, trust yourself and instincts. As one that has been faced with such odds many times, I first pray and then remember everything that I stand for and confide in. I know that I can overcome any and every thing that I am faced with as long as I stay true to myself and never compromise who I am. It sounds so simple, but when the odds are against you it is easy to lose confidence and become discouraged–just keep pushing and know the reward will be worth the struggle in the end!
ROZENDOVE | Houston, Texas based company, created to spread the love of art and celebrate artists worldwide
Dia Al-Azzawi “Oriental Window No. 1”
It is easy to get overwhelmed, but take a few seconds to look around, breathe, and appreciate the beauty around you. Taking the time to step away from a problem or challenge often allows for clarity you may not otherwise see. Create a step by step plan with attainable goals to slowly chip away at the challenge and eventually beat the odds to achieve your goal.
Satarre’ Necole | Caker
If you are at a point in your life where you are feeling defeated and nothing seems to be going your way my first advice would be to pray. Find a quiet place, sit, breathe and pray, then release it. Philippians 4:6-7 says do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. I have been there and I prayed my way out of it.
A few years ago I was in a pretty bad motorcycle accident where I broke and dislocated both of my elbows. I went through 7 surgeries over a year and a half and many months of rehab. With only about 65% range of motion in both arms and 10 permanent screws in each elbow I was told there was nothing else that could be done. I was in a very dark place. But then I began to pray and that’s where He introduced me to cake decorating and treat making. It became therapy for me. I worked through the mental and physical pain I was experiencing.
You can and will get through your adversities if you believe without ceasing. Nothing is too great for God!
Alexis Wilson | New Grad Nurse
The best advice that I can give someone that is facing insurmountable odds is to NEVER GIVE UP! If God brought you to it, he can bring you through it. I know this may sound cliche, but one of my close friends, Jade, shared this bible verse with me, and it stayed with me when I was facing a time like that. The verse is, ” And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up” Galatians 6:9. In today’s society, we often compare ourselves to others and lack appreciation for where we are at the moment. Rome wasn’t built in a day. Stay calm, driven, and focused, and before you know it, you will have reached the highest pinnacle there is.
Damaria | Singer | Songwriter from Houston, TX
My advice for someone who is facing insurmountable odds is to meditate and reflect. I think we all get so caught up in our every day responsibilities and struggles, that its easy to feel defeated and overwhelmed. But we are capable of overcoming the obstacles in life with the right mindset and attitude. Our attitude’s define so much. If you think your going to fail at something, then you already lost. Program your mind to claim victories before they happen, protect your energy from negativity… And remember every L is not a lost, but a lesson.
damariaofficial.com
@DamariaOfficial
@DamariaOfficial
music.apple.com/us/artist/damaria/916577698
Music is available on all streaming platforms
Evan Parker | Executive Chef, Strato 550
Kirsten Gilliam
Understanding strengths and weaknesses and prioritizing tasks is key. You also don’t have to go it alone. Someone has probably already faced the challenges you are facing and can give you guidance. – Evan Parker, Executive Chef, Strato 550
strato550.com
@strato550
@strato550
Jaé Elle | Artist
Pray. Breathe. Regroup. Find ways to remind yourself who you are and why you’re on that path. Understand everything may not be a breeze. It’s in those times where you need YOU the most. Hold your head up & FIGHT! Try being in a different space. See where you are going wrong.
Mentally put yourself where you want to be. I believe it starts there. See it. Think it. BE it. Fear can not exist. Fight for what you want. Nothing and no one else matters. Believe in yourself. Nothing is impossible.
Gigi Michelle | BASHI Brand Founder, Graphic Designer
@HonestlyWTF Clem Around The Corner P&Co @tessmartez Kammy Almeida thoughtsfromcami.com
DO NOT GIVE UP, most of the time when we face a challenge we are quick to walk away. But it is all about mastering that challenge and getting better. Think about it we all start with nothing, its about having the DETERMINATION to make something out of nothing.
Chelcee Monae | Entrepreneur & Cosmetologist
Insurmountable is another word for unconquerable. Over coming unconquerable odds starts in your mind. To change your life you must first change your mind. Time is of the essence but you can’t wait for others to motivate you, you have to believe and motivate yourself.
@shopmonaebeaute_
shopmonaebeaute.com
Jonathan Penright | Entrepreneur & Chef, Houston native
The only insurmountable odd is death, everything else is a cake walk. Seek inner guidance and tune out all outside distractions; then death, too, is easy.
Chefpenright.com/foodislove
@chef.penright
Zoe Iman | Writer & Model
I believe that with the right mindset & beliefs toward oneself, you can overcome anything. Our thoughts can build us or destroy us. It’s not a simple task but you have to learn how to control your thoughts to tackle the issue at hand. Thoughts are powerful & they alter our reality whether we realize it or not! So, thinking & feeling like you’ve won the victory over a challenge, obstacle, etc will eventually empower you to do so naturally. We are all on the brink of change, overcoming insurmountable odds & living a better life by simply thinking positive thoughts.
Dena’ Coleman | Personal Trainer/Mind, Body, and Soul Coach | Trainer Nickname: JUICY
As one knows life brings unexpected surprises that we at times have no control over. We may at times question things, but from experience I’ve learned to not worry about what’s not in your control and let God be God to reveal to you what’s not understood. Build a relationship with Christ and allow Him to take control over the unknown. I guarantee you will begin to get to a place of peace and calmness overall. Find you a hobby that will keep you busy and occupied through your days, whether you going through trials or not. Find something to commit to whether it be working out, swimming, dancing, skating, drawing, ect. Allow your mind to be at ease with something you love to do or grown to love on a daily bases. Keep your mental healthy so the body can do what it needs to do everyday!
getfit_stayjuicy@yahoo.com
@getfitstayjuicy_
Mary Alice Newton | Speech Language Pathologist, NPC Bikini Competitor & Fitness/Lifestyle Influencer
Life’s hard isn’t it? It definitely has the tendency of knocking you down time and time again, to the point that you might begin to feel helpless and discouraged. We all experience storms in our life and while in the middle of your storm you can’t help but wonder ‘when will this end?’ The world renowned poet, singer, and activist Maya Angelou so eloquently stated:
“We may encounter many defeats but we must not be defeated”
It’s easy to give up and let our problems consume us, but during these times we must remember to hold on tight to our faith and trust that God will bring you through it stronger, wiser, and better than before. My advice for someone who might be facing insurmountable differences would be to let what ever circumstance you are facing sharpen you, turn those wounds into wisdom, and grow!
@being_maryalice
maryalicenewton08@yahoo.com
Eric Fischer | The silver lining of a heart” by Eric Fischer 36” x 36” acrylic on canvas
To someone who is facing an insurmountable situation anywhere in life, there is always going to only be one if you. Ever. Don’t dwell on the minor things that create frustration and doubt if you want to achieve something don’t second guess it, just trust your gut and go for it. And when you find yourself saying “what if I can’t”, what if you can?
ericmfmedia.com
@ericmfmedia
@ericmfmedia
@ericmfmedia
Model Amanda Woodard | Poet and lyricist known as fresh
Makeup & Photographer credit: @calvinbrockingtonartistry
First you should never give up on yourself, your beliefs, nor your dreams, no matter how long it takes. Don’t limit yourself into thinking that you must have everything you strive for in a certain time frame It’s inevitable for us to have life without challenges. And it’s how we access and tackle challenges that illustrates our growth in overcoming obstacles. Sometimes we are forced to adapt to situations that are unwavering. However, whether we win or lose its our story to tell about how faith and our strength helped us overcome challenges. Continue to be healthy, strong and faithful accept those challenges and push through to your victory!
Porsha Pruitt | Owner of Bling.tasticwithp, (Paparazzi Accessories-Star Consultant)
My best advice is to keep pushing and never give up! I live by my faith in God and HE says that I CAN DO ALLLLLLLLL THINGS through Christ! So therefore failure is not an option. If you fall which you may just get up, dust off and pick up where you left off. For every no there are 10 yes’s. Keep going girlfriend you got this!
www.paparazziaccessories.com/246974
@BlingTasticwithP
@Bling-Tasticwith
bling.tasticwithp@gmail.com
Tyrescha Blaylock | BSN Nursing Student
Photo credits: Tamika Martin mom, @mstrmartin04
The best advice that I could give is to never give up. Life will throw you curve balls, lean into it and just keep pushing forward. For me, I tend to rely on my faith in God. I truly believe that having faith, the size of a mustard seed, can move mountains. There is nothing that you cannot accomplish in this life without first believing in yourself and trusting God.
