We were lucky to catch up with Corey Bell recently and have shared our conversation below.
Corey , so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?
This is a great question, especially when you consider the social, political and economic declines and clashes we are currently experiencing. Optimism in it’s simplest terms mean to think the very best thing will always happen.. With this understanding, I consider my faith to be the foundation of my hope. I’m able to remain optimistic by surrounding myself with a community of like-minded individuals, staying connected to my faith community and prayer. Lastly, I must say that observing my mother, grandmother, father and other notable leaders in my life navigate hard spaces has also contributed to my optimism.
I’ll leave you with this quote from Helen Keller, “Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.”
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
First I want to express my gratitude for allowing me to share my story with your readers. Corey Bell Ministries is a faith-based organization that has a mandate to go beyond the fore walls of the church and empower individuals to purpose. We have several methods to accomplish this goal; our yearly Outcry empowerment services, our yearly school, and holiday giveaways. CBM (Corey Bell Ministries) is gearing up for expansion. We are strategizing on mentoring initiatives tiatives, literature and panel discussions that are focused on personal and spiritual development of emerging leaders.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Great question! My advice would be to connect with good leadership that you can glean from, commit to your own spiritual and personal development and become okay with setting boundaries.
I didn’t realize how important these features were until I started CBM. To any emerging leader, business owner, Pastor etc, your longevity is directly correlated with your ability to be accountable and understand the importance of self-care. Make time for you, your family, laugh a lot, travel to beautiful places and just enjoy life. We have been of the “chasing the bag” mindset that we fail to allow time for rejuvenation.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When I feel overwhelmed I usually do very simple and practical things. Now before I share my a few of my tools, let me preface by saying I usually find myself in prayer or just sitting quietly before the Lord. In addition, I will sometimes go visit the mall, watch a funny movie, go to dinner with friends or just take a walk in a park. The ability to decompress has been a tool I utilize often.
Advice would be-pay attention to activities that make you smile, do something that doesn’t require you to be too analytical. Learn how to live in the moment (The Now of God)! You may want to place these strategies in your personal toolbox and use them as often as you can. If you have any free time, take this week to discover how these tools will work for you. You’ll thank me later..hahaha
Contact Info:
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Email: Coreybelministries@gmail.com
