I’m a couple of weeks late, so this is a belated celebration, but a year ago I decided to open up my world to all of you! So far, Danithedreamgirl has been an amazing accomplishment and I’m sooooo looking forward to what’s in store for me. You might be wondering what are some things that I’ve done with my site, and myself, in the past year …well, here you go!
-I’ve shared personal experiences with my readers!
-Started my own “how-to” segment with Become a Blogger Mondays
-I’ve conducted more than 16 interviews (which include celebrity interviews)
-I’ve built my contact list of celebs and publicists
-Had my site banner designed
-Took professional photos for promotions
-Built my traffic enough to generate revenue
-I’ve received 3 awards for my site!!!
-I started blogging for MuzikTalk.com
-Began photography services (with my new fancy camera)
-Have managed to help others and inspire them to follow/chase/run towards their dreams (the most important accomplishment)!!!
Although it has only been a year, it has been a gigantic step towards a great future! I look forward to the next time when I can give you another annual update. Thank you so much for your continued support…it means the world to me!
Wake up, take a shower, pick out my clothes, get dressed (HURRY, HURRY), brush my teeth, run to the car, race to work, check my emails, go get breakfast, scarf breakfast down, sit in meetings, talk with customers, do some work at my desk, eat lunch fast (HURRY!!!)….PAUSE! This is the moment in my day when I stop and think, “are you going to rush through every moment?” My life went from being robotic to being non-stop! I love what I do (writing, that is), but JEESH, sometimes I don’t get to enjoy my whole day because I move through it so quickly.
I feel like my friend, Shipwrecked on Fabulous Island, when she had to close her door just to enjoy an old Snickers bar. Like, for real, I often think that I need just one extra hour to my night or just one whole day to do NOTHING. Like today, I usually post an interview, featuring some celebrity or super cool individual, but I honestly just couldn’t. I was so tired last night that I crashed and what was supposed to be a 30 minute nap, turned into a 3 hour vacation on my couch…that’s how tired I was! All of this made me realize, I need to sloooooow it down and just chill.
I thought of all the good movies that are out that I haven’t had time to see yet. So, you know what?! This Dreamgirl is taking herself on a date to go see a movie! I have SO many choices, I don’t know which to choose. Let’s see…hmmm…Batman? Savage? Bourne Legacy? Ahhhh, just the thought of being at the movies with over-salted POPCORN (lots of butter of course) and a slurpy makes my insides tingle (by the way, I splurge on the kid’s meal that comes with a small popcorn, fruit snack and an extra dollar for the slurpy…I’m not going broke on this date buying $7.00 popcorn lol).
I spill all of this to you, only to say this…make sure, you are at least trying to enjoy some personal time. When you work hard, you have to play hard also. I know that not everyone is having the best week or some may be going through big life happenings, but even in those cases, remember…you only get one life on Earth (unless you’re reincarnated as an Olympic athlete like I will be), so enjoy it and try to be thankful.
If there is one thing we’ve all learned about life thus far, it’s that we don’t always get to control the pitfalls that are lurking on the road ahead. Even the things that we can control, can sometimes prove to be a roller-coaster ride. This is where our wisdom is born and our strength is heightened. In the moments where we can learn from our mistakes, try again and grow from our past, is where WE are built. So often, we not only get to see our peers travel on their journey through life, but we get to see those that are in the media spotlight as well. A celebrity puts their life on display for us to observe, to have opinions on and to critique every detail, from what they wear, down to what they eat. They put themselves on the line for praise and judgement alike, but what you don’t always get to see is their personal struggle to come back from the pitfalls that may have overtaken them. I’ve been determined to have Maia Campbell join the Dreamworld, since she is someone who’s experienced life at its best and has overcome tragedy right in front of our very eyes.
At a young age, she became a familiar face to many, on and off the screen. Maia played the role of “Tiffany” on the hit show, In the House, featuring LL Cool J. She’s been featured in other projects such as: Poetic Justice, Thea, Beverly Hills, 90210, and Moesha, just to name a few. Her success took a tragic turn when the world began to see her in a much different light. Hidden from the big screen for years, tabloids and home footage began to quickly surface of Campbell, looking taken over by drugs and displaying irate behavior. No one knew what had happened, but what we saw was heartbreaking. Our young starlet was no longer young and it seemed her path had deviated from being a star. Since then, she’s done a pretty good job staying out of the media and has taken major steps towards her recovery and improving her life. Maia was gracious enough to share her story with me; take a look at what life has been like for her, how she got there and what she advises up-and-coming stars to be aware of:
First and foremost, how are YOU doing?
I have been doing great, working on a few projects and enjoying my family now more than ever.
Going back to when you were first introduced to the world and this industry, how hard was it for you to be discovered?
I actually loved acting and singing but never knew I would be famous. I was introduced to a lot of legends when I was young and worked with them and didn’t realize the seeds that were being sewn. Breaking in to the industry wasn’t difficult for me when I look back on it.
There are so many people who fight hard to get noticed and make it on television and in movies, what was your motivation to keep going and sticking to your career goals?
The generation has changed DRASTICALLY. Talent is what used to be required now its like anyone can do television. It was important for me that young girls looked at me in a positive light. I never wanted to be seen throwing glasses, and food across a table.
How do you determine what roles are right for you?
I have a saying that I live by and that’s, “if it doesn’t feel right, then it’s not for you” so when I audition or roles are presented I always think about how the character will make me look. I am very selective!
So that others can see YOUR words, what do you think contributed to your hardships in the industry? Should other aspiring actors beware of anything specific on their journey to the top?
Not having REAL people around, and not realizing how blessed I truly was. I took so many things for granted. I would tell anyone make sure you know who you are and have a solid foundation because you can get so lost in the world of entertainment.
How did it make you feel when the world got to see you in the midst of your struggle? Did you feel violated?
It took for me to step back and see the person that had become so bad. I used to blame others, but there comes a point where you have to be responsible and accountable for YOUR actions. To me, that is where growth comes from because I was at a place in my life where that type of life is what I felt I deserved.
What new projects are you currently working on and what would be your dream role moving forward?
My dream role is to play Whitney Houston and I have a few awesome projects I am working on that I can’t speak on right now, but I think people will be so proud when they see the finished projects.
How can the fans show their support because we certainly miss you and have been cheering you on?
Make sure you follow me on Twitter (@MaiaCampbell); the love that I receive daily, I couldn’t ask for more. To see some people create accounts just to show me love, it means so much.
If you could go back in time and offer the “younger you” one piece of advice what would it be (based on what you now know about the industry)?
Enjoy being a kid, don’t rush to be an adult.
What is one funny/quirky thing about you that the fans may not know?
I am quite the little comedian and I am so sarcastic. My friends and I just sit around imitating people on TV shows and movies and we laugh for hours.
***
No matter what we may face in life, it’s never too late to pick yourself up and bounce back. Thank you for visiting the Dreamworld! I hope you’ve enjoyed learning more about Maia Campbell’s journey…it’s sure to be a great lesson for us all!
(Remember him? He played “Austin” on In the House)
Did you ever feel like you wanted more out of life? Did you ever feel like you had a story to tell that could help others? Did you ever go against the norm and jump out on faith because YOU had faith in yourself? If you can answer “yes” to these questions, then you’ve taken the first steps in discovering your power…the power to inspire, the power to motivate, the power to be GREAT! I was at a point in my life, as you all know, where I began to crave success and I wanted so much more out of my LIFE! Randomly one day, I did a search for John Starks because I thought he’d be a great person to interview. For whatever reason, there wasn’t much current information on him, but I came across a photo. A photo of him and a gentleman named, Jim Hernandez, at an event. So, I sat for a minute and I pondered on this…hmmm, barely any information on one of the greatest NBA players for the Knicks, but this guy has a picture with him? Who IS this guy? I began reading things like “motivational speaker talks with youth…” and “Jim Hernandez speaks to high school class…” and then it started to click. This wasn’t just a random person that I had come across, this was the person who was going to kick start my passion to continue on my journey with a purpose.
He has no clue (well, now he does), but he began to motivate me before I even had the chance to speak with him. So, I knew what my next step had to be…to reach out and give him kudos for just merely having a presence in the world that is built on inspiring others…and that’s exactly what I did. I also had the urge to share his success and passion with my readers! So without further ado, I introduce to you, Jim Hernandez, motivational speaker/mogul in the making. Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico and raised in the South Bronx, NY (no he’s not a distant relative lol), he spends his time traveling all around the United States encouraging and building up our youth. He teaches them to think BIG and to consider sharing THEIR stories and one day becoming a motivational speaker as well. With so many things discouraging our young people and the exposure that they get to violence and drugs and poverty, it is his goal to show them a different way! Check out what he has to say to the Dreamworld:
Did your environment (neighborhood, school, family, etc.) give you the motivation to want more or did you possess an inner-desire?
It was a combination of it all. My neighborhood, school, community, friends, all of my peers always looked up to the SAME people. We ALL admired rappers, actors and athletes. But what was it about all the people that we admired that made them successful? They learned how to manage and develop their talents. I always knew there was more to life than working 9 to 5, putting money in a 401k and just growing old. I didn’t only know this, I understood this and I WANTED MORE. My family is a HUGE support system and always encourage me to go out and do my thing. I get my drive from my mother and my personality from my father.
How does one go about discovering what their dream is?
A LOT of reading and surrounding yourself with positive, powerful, influential individuals. You have to have a different state of mind which is different from everything you have done before which has NOT produced the results you have desired. Understand that if you’re not getting better, you’re getting worse. If you’re not growing, you’re declining. You have to understand the only difference between winning and losing is taking the first step. Take that step towards what you believe in. This applies to any area of life, do not be afraid to fail. Take risks: If you win, you will be happy; if you lose, you will be wise. There is a lesson in all that you do. Invest time into yourself, invest time into your God-given talent and once you do that, then and only then will your PURPOSE present itself to you.
Has your success as a motivational speaker provided a life where you don’t need a traditional 9-5?
Yes it has. I have had the blessing to live out my dream because I believed in myself and was not afraid to fail. One of my favorite author’s, Tim Ferris, who wrote “The Four- hour Work Week” allowed me to look at life from a different perspective. I call it the “What’s the worst that can happen” point of view. If I leave my job and things don’t work out what’s the worst that can happen? I have to get another job, I may get evicted, things may not work out. Whatever the “Worst case scenario” was it didn’t involve me getting killed or hurting someone else. So … Why NOT take a leap of faith and that is exactly how I went about it. I still have the resignation letter from the day I quit too.
What do you think contributes to your success, allowing your audience to trust your words?
I am not afraid to be myself and share my story. I am very honest and transparent and allow that to pour out of me when I am on stage. We ALL have unique stories and this is something that I realized at the age of 25 while on this journey. I keep things SIMPLE. My mantra is Be REAL. Be RELATABLE. Be READY.
What do you think is your God-given purpose in life?
I notice that when I speak, people listen. It’s something that I realized early on. People value my opinion and the advice I share with them. When I first began searching for myself and my God-given talent, what I saw was that other people around me were inspired, others were motivated and encouraged to do the same thing. That is when the LIGHT-BULB over my head went off. I wanted to take that and enhance it, I want to share my story and my wisdom with more and more people. My God-given purpose is to simply SPARK the imagination and creativity in the mind of as many people as possible till my job here on this earth is done.
What do you say to the young person in the audience who doesn’t think they can be successful or overcome their circumstances?
I would first ask them WHY do they think that they cannot be successful or overcome their circumstances. It is not always about what you say to a person. Also take the time out to listen. Some people already KNOW what has to be done but just don’t believe in themselves enough to do it. Sometimes it may be a lack of guidance, direction or maybe even a positive role model in their lives that is keeping them from reaching their potential. Encouragement, support or even a listening ear will push a person just enough to help them embark on their journey thru LIFE.
But remember, you are as you THINK. Many of us base what we THINK off of what we see, know and are taught to believe. The young person in the audience would first have to be open to the message and let it into his heart and mind before any transformation can begin.
What are your long-term career goals?
Speaking to a million youths, bringing awareness to Motivational Speaking in urban communities allowing the youth to share their stories through public speaking, travel to as many places around the world as possible, create a financial life-style space for my family & myself and just continue to have as much fun as possible as I continue this journey.
What’s something funny/quirky about you that most don’t know?
I am a super-hero on my spare time. Shhhhhhhhhh …
We can all use an extra PUSH and sometimes all we have to do to get it is, LISTEN! Thank you for joining the Dreamworld, I hope you got the inspiration you needed today!
Want to see Jim in action? Check out the below video or visit www.jimspeak.com:
I love to write. I love to share stories about people who are on their grind and fighting to make their dreams come true. I even share my own stories of personal triumph (because I know you really care)! After speaking with a friend, I realized that a lot of what I talk about—although very uplifting—can sometimes be so serious that you don’t get to see my lighthearted side. So, in LIGHT of my fame and success (haha), I’ve decided to begin a series (Become a Blogger Mondays) that highlights exactly what I do, how I got here, the things that have helped me along the way, tips I’ve gathered from other bloggers and anything else I can think of to help YOU become a blogger!
This week’s topic: “How Do You Decide to Start Blogging?”
1. Be honest with yourself. Can you even write?
-I believe in putting your mind to anything, but you must also be realistic with yourself. A major part of any blog site is, in fact, WRITING! Of course, there’s interactive portions and pictures and whatnot, but at some point…you will have to express what’s in your mind through words and unless you plan to have a ghost writer (which some bloggers have), you should decide whether this is right for you and if it is, then put your best foot forward.
2. Do you have anything to blog about?
-There are SO many types of blogs out there! You have travelers, crafters, advice columnists, financial advisers, chefs, fashion gurus, etc. You can pretty much BLOG about anything, but I suggest making sure it’s something you can stick with and obtain longevity in. If you don’t enjoy what you are sharing with the world, how can you expect others to buy into what you’re talking about?
3. Is this something you are going to be able to keep up with?
-The idea of starting something new is [almost] always fun and exciting at first, but as we know, starting something for the first time is often like a relationship. You get butterflies, you hang out, you talk all the time, etc. and then after the honeymoon period, you’re sometimes bored! Think of your new venture like a marriage…am I in this for the long haul? Of course it’s your choice to start something new and not finish it, but what about your readers/followers who enjoy reading what you write about? Are you just going to leave them hanging when you decide you’ve had enough? No bueno!
4. Are you ready for the world to see YOU?
-No matter how personal or impersonal your blog site may be, you must always realize…it is for the world to see (of course once you’ve decided to make your site public). You must also realize, as with anything in life, you cannot please everyone. There will be negative feedback, naysayers and even people who may directly tell you what they don’t like! This comes along with the territory, so having thick skin is key. Getting past this realization was easy for me because I love what I do and I learn something new everyday.
Example: I had someone tell me that my blog needed to be more controversial and I needed to talk about the juicy/dirty stuff with celebrities in order for me to see success. How did I handle this feedback? Well, for starters it was hard to take their words seriously since they weren’t offering an educated opinion. They rarely read my site. Secondly, everyone is entitled to their opinion! I believe in what I do and I’m confident in my work. Take the good with the bad and keep it moving!
Tidbit: This all started by acknowledging my talents! I thought there was a special formula to discovering what I was good at, but I soon realized that my dream/passion was staring me DEAD in the face for years! Sometimes we often overlook the thing we have been seeking the most because it is the simplest option (message!).
I hope I’ve helped in some way! If you have questions, leave a comment below and I also welcome other bloggers to offer their ideas on how they decided that blogging was for them! HAPPY WRITING and join me next week when I discuss “Which Blog Site is Right for You?”!!!
I think we all reach points in our life when there’s a fork in the road. We have the choice to either go left or right, not knowing which direction is the correct one. I’m more of a choose-neither-kind-of-gal and see what happens if I go straight! It’s how I’ve chosen to live my life and whether or not it was ever the best decision for me, it’s gotten me to THIS very point in my life. Do I have regrets? Sure do. Are there things that I would change if I could? Absolutely. However, in the end, all of the choices that I have made for myself, were means to a lesson. So, what sort of things have I learned? I’m blessed even when I don’t get all that I pray for, I love like it’s going out of style, I’m stronger than I give myself credit for, I will forgive someone a million times without them doing the same for me, and most of all, I am able to accept the consequences for my actions even if “in the moment” I don’t want to.
On the other hand, something that I struggle with DEEPLY is accepting the criticism of others. Because my heart is so big and I love so hard, sometimes I feel like I can’t do much to offend those that I love the most, but I now know that this is so far from the truth. I’ve had people teach me some crazy lessons recently and their words have stuck in my head. I’m guilty of holding some to such a high standard that is virtually impossible for them to ever meet. When they fail at living up to my “standards” I am the first one there to make them aware of their mistake. I’m also guilty of being so easily filled with anger when my feelings are hurt and what’s inside of me comes out through my words…words that can be hurtful. I’m also very emotional and with emotions come blurred judgments. And these are just a few.
You may be wondering why I’m disclosing any of this. Well, I believe that it is our (the world’s) responsibility to openly share parts of our journey that could prove to be helpful to others. I want to be the best representation of myself to the world and as I grow, I realize that no matter how many times I fail or I fall down or I take the wrong path at the fork in the road, I still have to live with myself. I still have to look in the mirror and look into the eyes of the person staring back at me. One thing I am sure of is, I am completely grateful for the people that have stuck by my side. I am forever grateful for those that have chosen to make me a better person rather than giving up even when I made it the easy option. It is because of them that I have lifelong friends, strong family ties and the motivation to be a better woman.
With this in mind, I made a list. A list of things that I want to work on within me because whether I choose left, right or straight, the path begins and ends with the person walking it…and I want to be a wise traveler.
1. Cut back on cussing (totally a work in progress, but the change starts now-words are powerful)
2. Listen to others speak, more than I listen to myself speak
3. Start admitting when I am wrong
4. Tell my family/friends “thank you” and “I appreciate you” more than I point the finger
5. The people that walk away…let them!
It’s a small list, but it’s my start. No one is perfect, so I challenge you to make your own and do your best to stick with it!
I had the honor of receiving another award for my blog, YIPPEE!!! It completely caught me by surprise, being as though I didn’t know the person who nominated me. That just goes to show, PEOPLE ARE PAYING ATTENTION TO ME and I LOOOOVE attention. I am the recipient of the Illuminating Blogger Award and it came with this lovely message:
I love reading your site so I’ve nominated you for the Illuminating Blogger Award for illuminating, informative blog content. You can check out the details at my site …
What an amazing surprise, especially since I work SO hard on my site! This really supports the old adage that hard work truly pays off. So, what now? The rules are simple:
1. The nominee should visit the award site (http://foodstoriesblog.com/illuminating-blogger-award/) and leave a comment indicating that they have been nominated and by whom. (This step is so important because it’s the only way that we can create a blogroll of award winners).
2. The Nominee should thank the person that nominated them by posting & including a link to their blog.
3. Share one random thing about yourself in your blog post.
4. Select at least five other bloggers that you enjoy reading their illuminating, informative posts and nominate them for the award.
5. Notify your nominees by leaving a comment on their blog, including a link to the award site (http://foodstoriesblog.com/illuminating-blogger-award/).
If you are one of the lucky bloggers that I nominate for this nifty award, be sure to follow the above list. Congrats to all fellow recipients and happy blogging! Feel free to snag this image for your post as well!
Nowadays, it’s a surprise when I decide to do a personal post for my lovely readers, but I think it’s a great time to provide an update on my life! For starters, I’m taking each day as it comes and whether it’s a good or bad experience, I can take lessons from it all. My birthday came and went in a flash and although I didn’t celebrate it as I had originally planned, my family and friends managed to come together and share in my special day. For those that are not aware, I had a VERY traumatic thing happen to me and without focusing on every single, saddening detail I will just say this: A complete stranger found a way to change my outlook on life by physically harming me in a way that I had never experienced. What lessons came of it? I will never underestimate the intentions of others and I will not ASSume that all men know not to hit a woman. Another lesson? That I have some of the BEST friends and family in the world who have been helping me process everything. Constantly checking on me, being a shoulder to cry on and a set of ears to listen. My TEAM is amazing!
Despite this life-changing event, I have managed to still push forward and take small strides in the right direction. It hasn’t been easy, but what about life IS easy? With that said, I reached out to the creator of Shipwrecked on Fabulous Island and wanted to have my pictures taken (she does amazing work, check her out)…WHY? Because I’m building my portfolio for another major move that I am making, but can’t really disclose at the moment! Aside from the process of having my photos done, it was a chance for me to FEEL pretty inside and out. My CONFIDENCE was on point and it was just what I needed (FYI, the remaining photos will be published in a separate post)! As if the past few months haven’t been busy enough, I’m working on my life plan. I’ve written business plans in the past, but never a LIFE plan to map out where I am, where I want to go and where I want to end up. I will keep all of you updated on how that goes!
My goal isn’t to bore you so this is it for now, BUT it is extremely important for me to provide updates on where my journey is taking me…afterall, that is the whole premise of Danithedreamgirl.com! I’m determined to turn my DREAMS into a reality, while helping others along the way. Keeping this motto in mind, I will continue to share stories of strangers and friends alike, in order to inspire and foster a change among our generation! If you want your journey, testimony, or even career highlighted in the Dreamworld, reach out and I’d be more than happy to make it happen! Remember: TEAMWORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK!
***If you are interested in having your very own photo session, please send all inquiries to danithedreamgirl@gmail.com and I will send you my photographer’s contact information. Serious inquiries only!!!***
We all remember the climactic moments from Making the Band and despite the drama that spread within Danity Kane, we can’t help but miss seeing them on TV. There’s no denying that each member brought something special to the table and stood out in their own right. Do you ever wonder where they are or what they’re up to? Well, I decided to find out for myself where they’re at…starting with a fan favorite, D. Woods; the booty, the beauty and the voice! You’ll be happy to know that, not only is she still singing, but she has a new video and continues to push her way through the industry.
Born Wanita “D. Woods” Woodgett, she has always been a triple threat: singer, dancer and actress. Hailing from California and Massachusetts, Woods relocated to Atlanta where she began attending performing arts school, Tri-Cities High School. She would go on to continue building her technique at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and perfecting her acting abilities at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. If you thought that Danity Kane was her first run in the spotlight, you thought wrong. D. Woods has performed as a background dancer for big names such as, Snoop Dogg, LeToya Luckett, Bow Wow and more. After surviving the cut of Diddy’s Making the Band 3, the world got a glimpse of this special package on a much larger scale. The dynamic female group toured with powerhouse, Christina Aguilera and had two top selling albums (Danity Kane and Welcome to the Dollhouse) . Despite the abrupt ending of an amazing group, D. Woods remains strong-rooted in her goals. Read on to see what she has to say about life after the drama:
How has life, post reality T.V., been for you?
Even better!
What latest project(s) are you currently working on? Any exciting collaborations?
I have my label WOODGRANE ENTERTAINMENT and the first release, THE GRAY AREA EP which is on iTunes and other online retailers NOW. Go get It!
What motivates you to continue on your journey through this industry?
What motivates me is the little girl who dreamed of big things and stages and creativity that was/is, me. I can’t let her down.
What do you think is your God-given purpose in life?
Everyday I ask myself that and truthfully I believe that is the work of each person to find and redefine as they go through this world. I get a feeling of confirmation when Im doing something for GOD’s purpose that is undeniable so I keep search for that feeling.
What advice can you offer others, especially females, trying to make it in this industry?
Learn your craft and the business of your craft.
What is one funny/quirky thing about you that fans may not already know?
I’m a mermaid when I get in the water. I can stay on the beach in the water or the pool all day.
How can we show support, i.e. where can we buy your music, get the latest info on upcoming projects, etc.?
You can find THE GRAY AREA on iTunes or go to www.missdwoods.com for all things D.Woods.
*I asked D. Woods a couple of questions regarding Danity Kane and this is what her publicist had to say:
Ms. Woods prefers not to answer questions in reference to her former label or group.
It’s nice to see her moving in a positive direction and not diving into the D.K. past. The Dreamworld wishes her nothing but the best and if you want to show your support, make sure to visit iTunes and purchase The Gray Area! Before you leave, check out her latest video, Foolish Dreamer:
Danithedreamgirl 