As we grow older, life becomes more complicated. We face multiple challenges that threaten to undermine our potential in life. Suddenly, you don’t know what to do or who to turn to when life gets tough. I’ve got just the answer for you today. My special guest continues to be a great source of motivation for everyone under the sound of his voice. J.R. Rivera has been on a mission to motivate the minds of youth everywhere. If you woke up today feeling discouraged, please listen to this episode. First, ask yourself this question. What’s next in your life?
This question can linger in the minds of my listeners for years before finding an answer. Well, I want you to take a journey with me and my special guest today. Let’s tap into your mind and find the purpose in your life. Now I realize, this question can be frustrating and scary to answer. The next steps in your life can start with your finding your purpose. When you learn how to shape your purpose, you find a sense of direction. In fact, the beginning of your journey will be filled with questions or hesitation. Sometimes, we don’t stop and realize the blessings in our pain. We see the struggle as a burden that is impossible to lift. I want you to imagine lifting the biggest burden in your life while listening to this podcast episode. It’s time to open your eyes as you embrace your challenges with an open mind. Let your thoughts lead you to walk with a purpose as you start your day. This is the start of a new week! It’s time to discover your purpose today!
SONW Episode Recap
In today's episode recap of the “Schools Over, Now What” (SONW) Podcast, I had the opportunity to speak with my featured guest, J.R. Rivera. This man is a powerful speaker and educator who has inspired over 500,000 educators and students. We discussed valuable advice on how to find blessings in disguise, overcome challenges, and uncover your true purpose. The power of education is a phenomenal asset. This episode opened my eyes to so many possibilities. I know it will inspire you too. Are you ready to find your purpose? Then, get your notepad and press the play button.
As I started speaking with J.R, I realized the power of our purpose in life. This was a conversation that had me on the edge of my seat. I’ve wondered how some of the world’s best thought leaders or entrepreneurs create their own lane. Today was another amazing opportunity to get some gems from a pioneer in the teaching space. His knowledge about classroom instruction extends beyond what I could ever imagine. His journey is filled with a passion and purpose that led to success. Even though times weren’t always bright, J.R. is here to reassure you that it’s all a part of the process. There were some challenging times that made J.R Rivera. Maybe, you’re going through some challenging times now. Well, this episode is just for you. Get ready to find your true purpose as you create your new opportunities. This is the time to listen and learn from inspiring stories that will revolutionize your mindset. These episodes are released each week on the "Schools Over, Now What" podcast.
Are You Struggling?
Now, understand that struggles can be disguised as blessings. You just have to pick up your head and realize your purpose. Take a moment to understand why you struggle. Use your pain as motivation to get through the important times in your life. When you find it hard to stay focused or disciplined, think about your purpose. Learn to take your mind to places that keep you positive.
Now, J.R. explains that every struggle you face is a learning experience. As I continued to listen, I learned that it’s important to adapt to your struggles within your learning experience. Each lesson can help you grow into a better version of yourself. For example, J.R transferred from the University of South Florida (USF) to Florida Atlantic University (FAU).
The Blessing In Disguise!
Do you ever see the blessings in disguise? J.R didn’t know what to expect from his decisions in life. However, his decisions seemed to always be blessings in disguise. Certain decisions taught him more about his purpose as a college athlete. I believe some of his decisions taught him to accept his reality as a blessing. You will face struggles that you can turn into blessings today by making important decisions. Maybe, you’re afraid or uncertain of your ability. That’s the blessing in disguise. We never know where life will take us. However, we will go as far as our mind takes us if we never stop learning.
J.R. has a powerful story from his time in college. He learned the power of self-motivation. J.R. was more than a D-1 athlete balancing academic and athletic demands. I believe during his time in college, J.R. found a purpose that turned his life around. When he found himself in a financial bind, he leaned on his strong support system. This was a blessing in disguise. What attempted to break J.R. only made him stronger. You might be going through some challenging times now. You’re probably wondering. “Why you?” I want to encourage you to stay positive. Let your challenges mold your purpose. Seek out positive people that can support your dreams. You are closer than you think. Sometimes, we just need guidance to point us in the right direction.
Where’s Your Support System?
Guidance in your life might come from sources. If you have positive people in your life, you can have a support system. This was a point of emphasis from J.R. in our conversation. Surrounding yourself with the right people can change your mindset, habits, and results. It was amazing to hear J.R. advise you to surround yourself with people who are positive, uplifting, and encouraging. I challenge all my listeners to seek guidance. If you’re going in the right direction, obstacles will develop your character. If you stay motivated and focused, your actions will start to align with your purpose.
I applaud those of you who find value in uncomfortable places. This means you’re thinking outside of the box. This is why I created the SONW podcast. If you’re struggling to find answers or solutions in your life, click here. I hope my podcast can be an enriching platform for you. Guests like J.R consistently open my mind to the innovation within entrepreneurship. Education is a pillar that allows J.R. Rivera to motivate the world. He found his super-power and now he’s living life with a profound purpose.
Listen For A Second!
Are you willing to take risks and make sacrifices for the purpose deep down inside of you? Higher education might not be a path for you. Still, I’ve got tons of videos that will empower that thought you have today. Checkout all the past episodes here. The “Schools Over, Now What” podcast is a resource filled with thought leaders like J.R. Rivera. Take a listen, think about how you will pursue your purpose, then apply your knowledge this week. Write down those actionable steps that need to happen in order for you to see results. When you change your perspective, you become more attuned to opportunities that can change your life.
J.R. discovered teaching through coaching. He found that he was passionate about helping young people achieve their dreams by tapping into their mind. His story should motivate us all to walk in our purpose. No mountain is too high if you’re walking in your purpose. If you take the time to discover your passion and find ways to pursue it, your purpose will reveal itself in time!
Walking in your purpose is a journey that requires hard work, determination, and a positive mindset. You have to learn from your struggles, stay motivated, and have a support system that can help you when times get tough. You also have to be willing to change your perspective and make sacrifices to achieve your dreams. Finally, you have to find your passion and pursue it relentlessly. As J.R. shows us, the path to success may not be easy, but with the right mindset and support, you can achieve great things.
This is a great time to start fresh. Prioritize habitats or routines that will enable you to get a fresh start each day. It’s time to be assertive with your future. Develop a plan that allows you to walk in your purpose. There’s nothing wrong with having a positive support system in your life. As J.R. mentioned, “lean on your support system.” There’s nothing stopping you from becoming the next thought leader in education. I hope that you gained some valuable gems from this amazing episode.
Join Shawn Anthony as he talks to fearless business leaders who've shattered conventional wisdom to achieve massive success. In each weekly episode, our guests share jaw-dropping stories of overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Most importantly, they’ve answered the question we’ve all asked “School’s Over, Now What?” Get inspired and access cutting-edge strategies that'll transform your business and life. New episodes every Friday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and all major podcast platforms.