Justin Dawkins

Updates from January, 2010

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  10 things to consider for 2010 (in no particular order)!

  Justin 3:06 pm on January 9, 2010 | 2 Permalink | Reply
  

  HAPPY NEW YEAR! Typically I don’t make New Year resolutions because I don’t like procrastination (why wait for a new year to make changes in your life) but I thought I’d share with you my personal goals for 2010 to maybe consider for yourself. Now I didn’t plan for there to be 10 items, I just wrote what was on my heart and it just so happened to be 10 things. I’m sure I could find more but here we go; 10 things to consider for 2010.

  1. Let’s start by doing something different this year!
  2. Let’s throw out conventional wisdom and shock the hell out of the World (literally)!
  3. Let’s earn more but consume less.
  4. Let’s take steps to build healthy communities and destroy poor habits.
  5. Let’s expect less of the World and anticipate more from God.
  6. Let’s work smarter and harder (when it’s time to work).
  7. Let’s forgive faster than we forget.
  8. Let’s allow prayer to be our first, second and third option but let us not be afraid to ask for help.
  9. Let’s be faithful to those we love (family, friends, significant anyone) and honest with ourselves.
  10. Though every move you make changes the World, let’s make sure each move is divinely ordered!

  What do you think? Will you join me? What would you add to the list?

 

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  Gift Idea: Give the gift of knowledge

  Justin 8:35 am on December 16, 2009 | 0 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: christmas, Family (3), Friends (4), gift idea, idea

  Well it’s been a few weeks but I figured there is no time like the present to suggest a few good gift ideas for the holiday season. Personally I’ve run into some road blocks when it comes to gift ideas, so I figured why not find a way to give my talents or business expertise instead of tangible items.

  Since we all share so many talents, why not give the gift of knowledge to one of your friends, family members, or maybe even a stranger. I personally plan to offer internet marketing strategy (as a service) and XHTML/CSS/javaScript classes to one of my friends. Now I’m not sure of how it will work out but I’ll let you know how it goes. In the mean time, what are some of your talents or gifts that you can offer someone? Is giving my talent a “real” gift?

 
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  The top 7 things I'm looking forward to over the next 365 days!

  Justin 12:48 pm on November 9, 2009 | 0 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: birthday wish, bizzyness, entreneurship, Family (3), Friends (4), my birthday (2)

  Happy birthday to me… happy birthday to me… happy birthday to Jdot (that’s me)… happy birthday to me! LOL!! Ok I promise no more singing!

  The real reason I’m writing is to talk about what I would like to see over the next 365 days. I don’t want to keep this post too long so I’ll just hop right in. Here are the top 7 things I’m looking forward to over the next year!

  • Continued business growth for Social Saints (my baby) and my other businesses – Business has been good, but I would like to see the business grow, and even bring on some additional partners within the coming months! Interested?
  • The revitalization of Bizzyness – As some of you may know Akuba and I created a website about 15 months ago called Bizzyness. The site is designed to be an online resource and conversation portal for couples who decide to explore the business world together. Though we still love the concept, the truth is we haven’t had much time lately to update it and keep it going so it is my personal desire to recharge the concept and get Bizzyness back on course!
  • Traveling a little more and living in a different city – I believe this is self explanatory. Any suggestions on where I should live or where I should travel to?
  • Helping my friends, and family establish their businesses – If you’ve known me more than a weeks, you know that I love business. It’s one of the things I’m passionate about and something I love to share with others. It is the desire to share that encourages me to encourage others to start businesses, so it is my wish to help them along the way.
  • Making progress on our family tree – My family tree (particularly on my father’s side) is very incomplete, so I plan to make some additional progress on that so that I can continue to learn more about my family and myself.
  • The arrival of baby Strickland – Two wonderful friends of mine were recently married and decided to start growing their family right away! A few weeks ago we all found out that they’re expecting and I’m so excited for them I can hardly contain myself. That’s one of the reasons Baby Strickland is on my list! Congratulations Ashley and Martavis! BTW… what do you think they’ll have? Boy or girl?
  • Love, Peace, and Healing – There is just so much going on in the World that I pray that there will be more love shared, more peace lived and more broken hearts and lives mended! From friends to family, to colleagues and total strangers the world simply needs more love, peace and healing.

  What do you think? What’s missing? You can be honest. What other milestones or goals should I add to this list?

  Thanks for tuning in and let me know your thoughts!

  -Justin

 
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  I dare you!

  Justin 8:00 am on November 3, 2009 | 1 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Business, dare, Entrepreneurship (3)

  This isn’t my style, and to be honest I haven’t put much thought into this post but I think it’s time to see who is willing to take steps outside of the comfort zone and do something that is; often times stressful, completely uncomfortable, built on passion and faith, and filled with risk. I dare YOU to start a business.

  Now you may be saying; “Justin that’s easier said than done,” or “I’m not the entrepreneur type.” Well starting a business is easier said that done but everyone has a bit of entrepreneurship in them so to me this dare isn’t a stretch. No, I’m not daring you just because I can. I’m doing this out of love of business and due to the fact that we’re not getting any younger. Now I’m not saying we can’t take similar business risk when we’re older, it just becomes more difficult. So if you’re ever going to do it, why not now? Besides do you think the punch-clock promise is going to set you on the path of true wealth? It is possible but the odds are against you.

  Still not sure how to start one or what to start? Well I would say search your soul and find a way to share your passion with the World. Don’t worry about your limitations and don’t worry about how you’re going to get it off the ground. Focus on the business concept, polish it, think about it some more and just when you are the most apprehensive go after your first sale, put yourself out there and see what happens.

  I can understand your hesitation and believe me, I too was apprehensive but the rewards far outweigh the negative consequences associated with owning a business. After all if it fails you can always go back to doing what you were doing before. For those without a job and looking hard, why not devote a hour or two to your new business. It can’t hurt and you simply never know.

  Again this is a dare made in love and I’ll end it with a quote from girlfriends aunt. It sums up the attitude of many entrepreneurs in one short statement.

  The day I went in business for myself, is the day I stopped getting fired.

  Peace, Love, and Happiness,
  Justin

  P.S. If you come up with something please share it with me. I’d love to hear about it!

 
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  The first step to rediscovering yourself!

  Justin 3:24 am on October 25, 2009 | 2 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: dreaming, Entrepreneurship (3), Passion, self-discovery, startup

  Recently I’ve been approached by a few close friends requesting advice and insight into how to tap into their passions and strike while the irons hot! It is clear to them, and many others, that now is a perfect time to; start a new business, develop a concept, write a book or simply learn new things. Though the search for success in such troubling times seems to be a trending issue, I’ve simplified this pattern down to one things. People are simply searching for themselves and through finding themselves hope to discover true happiness. Now I’m sure we’ve all had moments where we’ve wanted more, prayed hard for it and wished even harder but most are not sure of where to start. Well I want to share with you what I believe to be the very first step to discovering yourself, finding that new job or simply pursuing your passion.

  The first step to rediscovering yourself is to move yourself out of the way and just dream. Don’t focus on your limitations, rather focus on envisioning how you want to impact the World. This means you don’t have to know how to build a social network to grow an online community, or how to cook to write a cook book. Yes you should focus on something that you’re passionate about but you don’t necessarily have to be the one to do it all. Some of the best entrepreneurs know how to own and run a business, but not necessarily how to do every function of that business. Donald Trump owns multi-million dollar properties but likely doesn’t know how to design skyscrapers. What Mr. Trump does do well is buy, own and manage real estate. He takes risk confidently and believes that the opportunity for his success is dependent on his vision not his personal ability to draw building schematics. He is not concerned about the how, he dreams first and works to execute on the specifics after his vision is complete.

  Don’t believe such an abstract methodology can work for you? Well try this; Think about where Donald Trump, Oprah Winfrey or even Steve Jobs would be if they were forced to execute on every facet of their respective businesses. Oprah likely doesn’t know how to operate the latest motion picture camera, yet she produces movies. Donald Trump likely doesn’t own a personal sewing machine, yet he markets and sells a line of designer ties. The point I’m getting at is remove yourself from the equation and focus on the dream without the proverbial glass ceiling.

  I can go on and on but I think I’ve said enough. What do you think? Can you get out of your own way so that you can discover the path to true happiness? Can you dream without focusing on your personal, often times least insignificant, short-comings? How will you rediscover yourself? What will the World remember you for?

 
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  The sky fell and now we have to clean up!

  Justin 2:31 am on September 24, 2009 | 0 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: atlanta, atlanta-flood-relief, flood, hopeatl.com, how to help, relief

  Most of you who know me, know that I am a man of few words unless I want to talk about something near and dear. Well today you all get to read me go on and on about how we need continue to give and support those affected by the recent weather in Atlanta.

  Actually… I’ve changed my mind. I was going to take the time to dig deep and express my deepest thoughts but I’ll keep it short so that I can do more and say less.

  Just in case you missed it, our city is hurting right now and the media and news outlets just don’t do it enough justice. The images you see are merely glimpses into what people are experiencing. Remember that water is real… this is not a movie! The simple truth is we need to do more. I know we’re all busy but that doesn’t relieve us of our responsibilities as neighbors, Atlantans, Americans,and Christians. A good friend of mine, Jasmine Bacon, said something that made me think while we were talking about donating. After making mention to the fact that very few people have responded to emails and text she said; “Well tell them to look at the news all day like I did and it’ll get a reaction out of them!” My initial thoughts were yea that’s true, but then I asked myself does it really take the news to get people to react? Are we programmed to shake our heads at the screen and then go on with our lives? People have lost EVERYTHING! These are not damp floors, we’re talking water levels that would completely cover most of us if we were standing straight up. Now no offense to Jasmine and the first part of her message, because there is some truth in that, but I would like to believe in the second part of Jasmine’s message where she said; “It just hit too close to home for me!” Now that’s real, and that is what should fuel us. I mean think about it. Some of us live less than 10 miles away (and work even less) from some of the most devastated areas. If the wind was blowing just a few miles per hour in our direction, it could be us standing in need.

  So for those of you who have given your time and money, on behalf of all Atlantans I want to say THANK YOU!! But guess what you can do one more very simple thing. Tell someone else about how much OUR city needs us and get them to respond too!

  For those of you who haven’t had the time or taken the time, I just ask that you do something… anything. Below are some really easy ways to help and remember it’s not all about quantity (when it comes to time and money). Help out for a few hours after work or donate 5 or 10 dollars… the point is do something!

  For those of you who want to donate money, know that Social Saints has set up fund (via Paypal) and you have our commitment to making sure 100% of the proceeds to those in need. No middle man, no bureaucracy. We will take the money, buy supplies or gift cards and get them to those in need. Period.

  http://socialsaints.org/give/atlanta-relief/

  You may also check out http://www.hopeatl.com/ for additional ways to donate your time and resources to those who NEED you to respond. As it say in the title of HopeATL.com It’s REALLY BAD!!!

  Ok this turned out longer than I really want but I want to thank you for reading and responding to this! Remember to forward this to friends and post this to your wall! I love and appreciate you for taking the time to read this now… Let’s RESPOND and answer the call!

  -Justin
  P.S. If you have questions feel free to call or email me directly.
  email: give@socialsaints.org
  call: 404-425-9968.
  You can also follow us on Twitter for additional updates and information (http://twitter.com/socialsaints. We’ll share the information we receive as we get it!

  Also If you think home owners insurance and the Red Cross can handle it all… you’re wrong.

 
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  Stress: How I view and manage the ups and downs

  Justin 10:42 am on July 28, 2009 | 1 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: blessings, faith, stress

  I’ll keep this brief so that you may carry on with your day but I want to share with you a particular perspective of mine, in hopes that it may help you manage your stress level a little better.

  Let’s face it, stress is an everyday part of life and to be honest some types of stress can be good for you. Sometimes stress (good stress called eustress) can lead to innovation, radical improvements in productivity and even a better perspective on things. What I’ve come to realize, personally, is that I can have all of those things without necessarily having the physical burden put on my body. I won’t turn this into a health seminar but stress has been linked to all kinds of health problems, and according to Dr. Michael Roizen (yes he was on Oprah) can add years to your “real age” (the age in which your mind and body operates at – not your calendar age).

  So you’re thinking just get to it already Justin… you said you weren’t going to make this long! Well you’re right so here you go.

  My View of Stress

  To me stress is a distraction. Stress is one of the many obstacles that we receive into our lives and we just kinda deal with as best we can. For a long time I felt that way but I realized that my mind and body was paying the price for something that I often times don’t have control of. Like many, stress leads to several thing including; lack of mental and physical rest, poor eating habits, and a very poor attitude. With so many “negatives” and too few “positives” I decided to pray a little more and do something about it. With that intitiave and insight from God I figured out that stress, for me, is merely another form of shallow faith. “How so?” you may ask. Well if I am to believe that God can and will handle it all then what am I really doing when I “stress out!” Well for me stressing out equates to wasted time, and being an entrepreneur wasted time equals wasted productivity (and money) further pushing my mind and body into a vicious cycle! So, since I’ve pretty much concluded that stress equals wasted time… I’ve simply decided to stop wasting my time and continue to keep my eyes fixed on God’s kingdom. You may be thinking that’s a fairly shallow explanation but the truth is… that’s it! If you disagree here’s an additional way of looking at it. As a believer, allowing stress to consume you does 4 things;

  1. Erodes the connection between you and our Father
  2. Distracts you long enough to miss God’s next blessing and opportunity
  3. Prohibits you from being completely faithful
  4. Causes harm to your physical temple.

  I don’t know about you but #2 alone is enough for me to stay focused and to worry less. I absolutely hate feeling like I missed something. Anyway what are you thoughts? How do you manage stress? Let’s come up with a plan to maintain our focus and keep our minds, bodies, and spirits free and clear.

 
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  Whoa!!! It's been way to long!

  Justin 1:57 am on September 11, 2008 | 1 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: engagement (2), General

  Well I thought I should take a minute to tell you that I am alive, and yes I do plan to update everyone soon on what’s been going on. Right now I am in transition and starting to get that ball rolling on some really great ideas.

  I would like to say congratulations to my friends Chris and Sydney as they were recently engaged and are about to embark on one of the greatest adventures of their lives. NO not marriage, planning the wedding! LOL!

  Anyway I will check back in soon with a little more umph… sorry to leave you hanging.

 
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  A beautiful occassion :: Congratulations Joel and Nikki!

  Justin 3:16 pm on June 22, 2008 | 0 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Joel and Nikki, Joel and Nikki's Wedding, June 21st Weddings, Weddings

  God is good, all the time, and all the time God is Good! What a wonderful occasion a wedding is. Joel and Nikki’s wedding was nothing short of beautiful. NicoleAsh did a wonderful job (Shout out to you Ashley), and I think everyone will agree when I say that the ceremony and reception were absolutely wonderful.

  To the newlyweds I would like to say congratulations. I know God will fill your lives with an abundance of blessings. I also want to say thank you for allowing me to be a part of such a special occasion. We all enjoyed ourselves and it felt good to be a part of something that meant so much to so many people. We laughed, we cried, we danced, and we danced some more. I pray that you have a safe and relaxing honeymoon, and we all can’t wait for your return.

  Be Blessed, and again congratulations!
  -J.

 
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  Follow through, it's your best strategy

  Justin 11:07 pm on June 9, 2008 | 0 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: life, meaning, purpose, significance

  Hello all,

  I just wanted to share something with you, as you make that transition from “Job A” to “Job B,” or move into a relationship where you feel equal and treated as part of whole. This was written by a good friend of mine, who wanted to share a few words about relationships, purpose and the pursuit of your passion. Read on and tell me what you think.

  In life, business and relationships your greatest asset is vision.

  Your biggest liability is Doubt.

  Doubt is conquered by taking the steps that your vision has brought you to.
  Many times I’ve felt like being busy was the most important things to do and the key to success.

  Conversations would begin with the question “what’s up man? What’s going on?”

  And I would always answer, “man staying busy just making it happen”. I thought that’s what made a person successful. One day I asked myself the question, “what is it to be busy if you’re not working toward your purpose?” I knew then that being consumed with the “hustler” mentality was not bringing me personal fulfillment, which is true success. All it did was earn the validation that I sought from my peers. Many times people can be so busy performing for the world that they don’t take the time to see the vision that God has deposited into their spirit. Success in relationships, business, life etc. can be simple. Seek the vision, sketch the blueprint and follow through. I use to always hear wealthy men say “the key to a great business is a great business plan.” Your vision is that business plan; use it. Faith is your strongest tool and “follow through” is the best strategy.

  -L. Norsworthy

  What do you think? Are you implementing your business plan with the right tools, are you executing your divine strategy?