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From Trauma to Triumph: Motivational Speaker Inspires Students
"You should be yourself because everyone else is already taken," exclaimed Dr. Javar Godfrey, CEO and Founder of Healing My Emotions, as he took the stage at Hackensack High School earlier this week. “Be yourself because everyone else is already taken!”
These empowering words resonated with students, who were captivated by Dr. Godfrey's dynamic presentation on managing thoughts, triggers, trauma, and ultimately, triumphing over life's challenges.
As a curriculum developer and motivational speaker, Dr. Godfrey specializes in equipping youth with the tools they need to develop social-emotional intelligence and mental wellness. His interactive assembly touched on key topics like the power of positive self-talk, identifying and managing emotional triggers, and overcoming the effects of trauma.
"If what YOU think about me, means more to me than what I think about me, then I have the problem," Dr. Godfrey emphasized, driving home the importance of nurturing a healthy self-image and not allowing others' perceptions to define us.
For many students, like senior Zeharia Ellis, Dr. Godfrey's message was a wake-up call.
"I am a victim of negative self-talk," Ellis shared. "So, learning from that, it really gave me a new point of view and I'm really happy he came."
In addition to the student assembly, Dr. Godfrey also engaged teachers in a professional learning session, equipping them with strategies to cultivate a positive mindset and foster an environment that supports the overall mental health and well-being of students.
The program, which was funded by the School-Based Mental Health Services Grant, has proven to be invaluable in today's climate, where youth are facing unprecedented challenges to their social-emotional development and mental wellness. By providing students with practical tools and a renewed sense of self-empowerment, Dr. Godfrey made a tangible difference in the lives of Hackensack students.
As they navigate the ups and downs of adolescence, Dr. Godfrey returned to his initial message: "Be yourself, because everyone else is already taken."
He also encouraged them to embrace their unique qualities, practice daily affirmations, and surround themselves with people who uplift and support their journey. In the end, self-love and resilience will allow them to overcome any obstacle and tap into their fullest potential.
Click here to check out Dr. Godfrey in action!