We had the good fortune of connecting with Joye Jackson and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Joye, other than deciding to work for yourself, what was the single most important decision you made that contributed to your success?
The single most important decision that I made was to be authentically and unapologetically Joye. When I started this journey, I spent a lot of time listening to what others said about me. I was told I was a great motivator. I was told that I excelled at leadership. I was told that I was a good business woman. While those things may have been how others experienced me, I was (at my core) a woman of faith who desired to walk in God’s purpose and encourage others to do the same. When I realized that my life was not about how people viewed me, but what God saw in me; my life, business and focus changed. Making the decision to walk in my purpose and truth (flaws and all) has made this journey so much more enjoyable. I am no longer trying to please other people in my business. My goal is to please God, and create a path for other women to do the same.
Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Speaking of Joye was designed for women who, like me, had the traditional ideas of success. They had the job, the house, the family, the finances; but at the end of the day were still unfulfilled. So many times, we place our worth on the external things in life, versus the one thing that really matters…purpose.
When I first started Speaking of Joye, I spent my days working with women and men who were in leadership. I developed content, workshops, and training to help them become better leaders. No matter how many sessions I facilitated, I found the greatest joy in my one-on-one conversations with women in the room. Many of them had the same story. They felt that there was more to who they were and what they were doing. I completely resonated with them, and would challenge them spend time identifying their purpose. The irony was that I was encouraging them to do something that I had not fully embraced! I knew God was calling me to more, and I had a responsibility to walk in His calling. It was at that moment that I surrendered my will to God’s and transitioned Speaking of Joye to what you see today. Its purpose is to encourage women to unleash their power within and walk in their God-given purpose.
Speaking of Joye is based on four principles:
Faith – Trust God and walk in purpose.
Authenticity – Be uniquely you.
Confidence – Believe you are capable, valuable and worthy.
Truth – Live in integrity with grace and humility.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
First, let me say that I absolutely love Houston. There is so much to do. Here are a few of my favorite places. As a native Houstonian, there were so many to name. I love how my city has grown and expanded over the years.
One of my favorite spots is Erma Rose Winery. My husband and I surprisingly found them one afternoon, and have been loyal patrons ever since. If you go, be sure to get the Masked Gorilla wine!
I also found a new way to relieve stress…axe throwing. My husband and I found this awesome place called Urban Axes. We enjoyed the atmosphere and the staff. Right down the walkway, we came across Fainmous BBQ. They have some of the best southern style BBQ in town.
I have to confess, I love Latin food. My favorite place to grab a bite is Irma’s Southwest. Their tamales can’t be beat!
Houston wouldn’t be Houston without good crawfish! I definitely make my way to The Deck for a good football game and some live crawfish!
My evenings can be spent at the Hobby Center watching Theatre Under the Stars or at the Ensemble Theatre, taking in a good play.
Finally, on the days I like to spend with my family; we can always have a great time at the Houston Zoo. We can even enjoy a picnic outside and round it out with an opportunity to laugh and smile as we paddle boat.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The journey has been such a blessing! All that I am and have accomplished, I owe to God. In addition, I could not have done it without my family. My husband, Steven, has been a tremendous supporter! He has encouraged me, and cheered me on through this entire journey! I am also grateful for my parents. My mom and dad are true examples of faith and love in God, which is the foundation of who I am. The work I do is not only for the women I serve, but for my daughters, Shelby and Sydney. My life’s goal is to demonstrate what faith in God, love of self, and purpose can do. I am motivated for them each day!
I also have to thank two very special women, who have been by my side as Speaking of Joye has evolved. My Business Coach, Christy Staples, of “GetLaunched!” has challenged me, held me accountable and cheered me on along the way. I also want to thank my editor and content advisor, Hannah Pease of “Words for Whatever.” She has helped me not only with my written content, but my vision and goals too!
Website: www.speakingofjoye.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakingofjoye/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/speaking-of-joye-llc-6672161b3/
Twitter: @speakingofjoye
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakingofjoye
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsq-eJa_rWvUH5ZosoPAa_Q
Image Credits
Photographer: Andre Kelly Photography Makeup: Kim Clark Artistry