Come Out From Hiding and UNFOLD Thyself!

Admin • December 19, 2016

Come Out From Hiding and UNFOLD Thyself!

Think about a time whenever you had a valuable idea written down on a piece of paper, and you folded it and put it up in your wallet, purse, or a book. Sometimes we forget about a piece of paper like that, and we go on with life until a situation arises in which we go back to those ideas on that paper. Well, like that piece of paper, we tend to fold ourselves up along with our ideas, talents and dreams. We shut ourselves down in fear of what people think or say and because of our hang-ups. We settle for average in life, and watch our dreams drift away. Time escapes us and we end up at our wits end while embracing hopelessness.

If you find that you’ve been in this situation, it’s time to unfold yourself! How long are you going to waste time in fear, holding back the greatness in you? How long should you forget your purpose and the people that need your gifts and talents? I will now go into 3 reasons why we fold ourselves and how to unfold into our purpose:

1. Intimidation :
So many of us are being held hostage by bullies who intimidate us along with people who see our potential and try to win power over us. They push over on us and make us feel like we are worthless, stupid, useless, and weak. We tend to cower into a corner with our ideas, and faint from fighting these giants. This causes us to resolve to support everyone else’s ideas while forsaking our own , and developing bitterness and resentment over the years because we weren’t able to stand up against those who intimidated us and “shut us down”.

a. Overcoming Intimidation : In order to unfold yourself and overcome intimidation, you must weigh the balances appropriately and consider the source . Choose not to make the issues bigger than what they really are. In addition, continue to remind yourself of your value and how you ARE needed in spite of what the voices of intimidation will shout at you. Furthermore, replace the message of intimidation with a message of hope and purpose for the future! As I mentioned in my book series “How to Overcome Obstacles from Your Past”, the best is yet to come for you so you don’t have time to listen to the voice of intimidation!

2. Fear: When I was a homeless student in the homeless shelter for 2 years in high school, I was encouraged by a leader named Barbara who always said that FEAR is simply F alse E vidence A ppearing R eal. There’s a big FEAR that says, “What if people don’t receive my ideas?” or, “What if I’m rejected and or humiliated ?” These fears are real issues that we all face and must acknowledge in order to move forward. Fear is the great paralyzing element that keeps us “Stuck” for years, feeling like we are bound and like our hands are tied. It causes the gut wrenching feeling in our stomachs that makes us feel like we will be doomed if we step out with a risk and apply ourselves and share our ideas.

a. Overcoming Fear : In order to overcome fear, we must first face it dead on with a “What if this fear doesn’t come true?” and choose to hope in our expectations of a great dream coming to pass. Wayne Gretsky mentions how we miss “100% of the shots we DON’T take.” I love this saying because it shows all of us that no matter what the situation, there’s always potential. Living in fear will not help you or the others that you were called to serve. Fear will lock down your purpose and get your focus off of your destiny and what truly matters. It’s time to take off your fear like you’d take off a coat, and put on hope and expectation in your gifts and purpose. Who knows what greatness will come out of you whenever you try? It’s worth a shot, so go take off that fear and unfold yourself!

3. People’ Opinions :
The opinions of others hold so much weight in our hearts and minds that we will go against what we desire to do in order to please everyone else . We will take counsel from others who are older and have been in our area of expertise longer. Then, we take their advice while striving against what we felt is right in our gut to do. Unfortunately, we look back in regret for listening to others as our opportunities fade away with the wind.

a. Overcoming People’s Opinions : To successfully overcome people’s opinions, we must consider the need and urgency for our dreams, goals and desires to come to pass. We can’t afford to take on a mundane, stoic-type attitude about fulfilling our purpose. Hence, we must care more about our purpose than the opinions of people. We have people we are called to help and if we don’t rise up and take our dreams by the horns, they might perish from our lack of action.

I can remember times when I went to speak for an organization as a keynote speaker that I would tense up and worry about what the audience would think if I shared something about my life that I knew could help them but I was a bit embarrassed about. I had to overcome the opinions of people at moments like these and share anyway in order to help someone who’s tried everything and might be at the point of giving up hope in life. I can testify that when I went with my gut and did what was right and pursued those very things that I felt people wouldn’t esteem well, great things came out of it. Furthermore, I learned to shut down the voices of people who I cared greatly about who gave me advice contrary to what I thought and it paid off. Hence, let me encourage you to love people, but shut down the opinions of those who are speaking contrary to what you are dreaming or pursuing to accomplish, and unfold yourself again!

Conclusion

When you consider our life span as a human race, time is passing us by QUICKLY ! Time is too precious for us to sit on these valuable talents and ideas because of intimidation, fear, and people’s opinions. You are one of a kind , and the world needs you whether you feel like it does or not. Nobody can duplicate you or replace you. Thus, it’s time for you to unfold yourself so you can accomplish your purpose and fulfill your destiny while helping others!! What do you have to lose? If anything, you can do nothing but win , so choose to unfold thyself again!!

For more information about unfolding yourself, check out my e-books on “How to Overcome Obstacles from Your Past!”

Copy this link into your url to get your copy ASAP!
https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=e+book-+how+to+overcome+obstacles+from+your+past

By India White June 29, 2025
From Rotten Moments to Sweet Blessings: What Banana Bread and Fermented Foods Teach Us About Life Sometimes life hands us what feels like rotten bananas; situations that seem spoiled, broken, or beyond hope. Maybe it’s a tough season of loss, failure, disappointment, or uncertainty. Yet, just like those overripe bananas transform into delicious banana bread, or milk ferments into nourishing cheese and yogurt, our "rotten" moments have the power to turn into something sweet and life-giving. Why Rottenness Can Be Good In the culinary world, fermentation, a process that uses “rottenness” to transform foods , creates some of the healthiest, most flavorful staples we enjoy: yogurt, cheese, sauerkraut, kimchi, and more. This “rottenness” isn’t waste; it’s a powerful agent of change that unlocks nutrients, improves digestion, and promotes health. Similarly, life’s difficult seasons are not the end. They are part of a process— a fermentation of our character, faith, and grit When we lean into these moments with grit—great resilience in time—we develop strength, wisdom, and sweetness in our souls that wouldn’t be possible otherwise. 7 Ways to Overcome a Negative Mindset and Embrace Grit in Rotten Seasons 1. Acknowledge Your Feelings Without Defeat It’s okay to feel hurt, frustrated, or discouraged. But remember, these feelings don’t define you. Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.” 2. Shift Your Perspective to Growth View challenges as opportunities for learning and growth. Romans 5:3-4 reminds us, “Suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Just like looking at a bunch of rotten bananas can seem discouraging until you shift your thinking and see them as a perfect ingredient for banana bread, choose to see your moments of rottenness as a game changer for your destiny! 3. Practice Patience Through the Process Good things take time— like fermentation and baking . Wait on God’s timing. Ecclesiastes 3:1 says, “There is a time for everything.” Think of how spoiled milk seems disgusting and gut wrenching, until you learn of how wonderful of an ingredient it becomes for homemade cheese! Trust the process, and know that it will all work out in your favor! 4. Cultivate Resilience by Staying Connected Surround yourself with supportive people who encourage you to keep going. Galatians 6:2 teaches, “Carry each other’s burdens.” Sometimes, that person might be the catalyst for a new direction, new energy and exponential success. 5. Focus on Small, Consistent Steps Break down overwhelming problems into manageable pieces. Z echariah 4:10 encourages, “Do not despise these small beginnings. ” Don't lose sight on your progress, your identity or your purpose. 6. Renew Your Mind Daily Replace negative thoughts with truth and hope from Scripture. Philippians 4:8 advises, “Think about whatever is true, noble, right, pure.” Remember that God is not dead, and he sees exactly how his plan in your life will manifest. Leave your worries on the throne and know he will justfiy you. 7. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection Every small victory is a sign of growth and sweet fruit to come. J ames 1:12 says, “Blessed is the one who perseveres.” Just as you are making banana bread, cheese, yogurt and other wonderful foods, you know that there might be bumps along the way, but keep pressing on! The final product is worth the moments of struggle disappointment and rottenness. You will smile in the end. Conclusion Remember, just as rotten bananas, milk, and vegetables become nourishing foods through a process of transformation, your tough seasons are preparing you for a sweeter, stronger tomorrow . Stay gritty, endure the process, and trust that God is turning your struggles into something beautiful. For more encouragement and practical ways to build grit in your life, visit my website at www.india-white.com . You can also watch my TEDx Talk, The Power of G.R.I.T., for a motivating boost to help you keep pushing through life’s challenges. Keep rising. Keep growing. Your sweetness is coming.
By India White June 27, 2025
🚀 Ready to Get Pumped Up About Life Again? 🌟 Listen to my TEDx talk, and let’s reignite that fire inside you! 🔥 It’s time to get serious and start making those dreams happen! 💪 Don’t let anything hold you back—embrace the grit and determination needed to turn your aspirations into reality. Join me on this journey to unleash your full potential! 🎤✨ #drindiawhite #grit #DreamBig #TEDxTalk https://youtu.be/R9YQOtryL7w?si=vvp_rSqMP3J2VNQ_ (I don’t own music copyright)
By India White June 27, 2025
Join us on the Grit and Equity Talks with Dr. India White, featuring Choosing to See Co-Author and Equity Expert, Dr. Pam Seda! #drindiawhite #pamseda #choosingtosee #equity #icucareframework #nctm #ncsm
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🌟 Exciting News! 🌟 I’m thrilled to announce that I’ll be co-presenting at CAMT with the amazing Peter Liljedahl from Building Thinking Classrooms! Join us for our session where we’ll dive into empowering students to transition from perseverance to productive struggle. Let’s transform challenges into growth opportunities together! 🚀💡 #CAMT2025 #BuildingThinkingClassrooms #Education #StudentSuccess #drindiawhite #btc #grit #tedx NCTM - National Council of Teachers of Mathematics NCSM: Leadership in Mathematics Education #camt25 (I don’t own music copyright)
By India White June 23, 2025
Dear Educators, Principals, and School Leaders, I’m excited to share that my latest newsletter has just arrived, filled with inspiring updates, resources, and tools to support your teams and students in building a culture of G.R.I.T.—Growth, Resilience, Intentional Self-Efficacy, and Time Management. As you plan your professional development sessions, conferences, or school events for the upcoming year, I’d love to partner with you. Whether it’s a keynote, workshop, or interactive training, I specialize in helping educators and school communities cultivate grit, equity, and empowerment in ways that are practical, engaging, and transformational. If you’re interested in having me speak at your school, district, or conference, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’d be honored to serve your team. You can also explore my speaking topics and G.R.I.T. resources at: www.india-white.com Let’s connect, collaborate, and inspire greatness—together! Here's the link to my newsletter to share: https://www.canva.com/design/DAF_21LSLwQ/sEqABtI7pY0-Gh5vSzQnLg/edit?utm_content=DAF_21LSLwQ&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton Warmly,
By India White June 23, 2025
Thank You, Nevada Association of School Administrators: Building a Culture of G.R.I.T. Together I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Adam Lane and the Nevada Association of School Administrators (NASA) for the incredible opportunity to speak at your recent conference. It was truly an honor to engage with such passionate, forward-thinking educational leaders who are committed to transforming schools and communities. During our time together, we explored a theme close to my heart: creating a culture of G.R.I.T.—not just in the classroom, but throughout our communities. We unpacked the G.R.I.T. Framework, which focuses on cultivating Growth Mindset, Resilience, Intentional Self-Efficacy, and Time Management in both educators and students. These four pillars are foundational for student success, especially in today’s challenging and ever-evolving educational landscape. We also discussed the critical role educators and school leaders play in modeling and reinforcing these values. From building trusting relationships to ensuring equity and access, educators are the heartbeat of our communities. When we lead with empathy, authenticity, and grit, we empower students to do the same—and we create schools where every learner feels seen, supported, and capable of greatness. To the school leaders, superintendents, and administrators who attended: thank you for your engagement, your insights, and your commitment to building a legacy of perseverance and purpose. I walked away inspired by your stories, your questions, and your unwavering dedication to improving outcomes for all students across Nevada. If you're interested in learning more about the G.R.I.T. Framework or want to access tools like the G.R.I.T. Workbook, I invite you to visit www.india-white.com/what-does-grit-mean-to-you ] And if you missed the session or want to revisit the message, you can also check out my TEDx Talk: The Power of G.R.I.T. Thank you once again, Adam and NASA, for giving me the platform to share this mission and for all you do to champion student success across Nevada and beyond. Let’s continue lifting others as we climb—one gritty step at a time.
By India White June 23, 2025
Embracing Grit and Community in Education: Strategies and Insights for Teachers As I reflect on both shared and individual childhood experiences, I am reminded of the incredible power of grit, the passion and perseverance that fuel our journeys. Yet, one important question remains: What happens when grit alone isn't enough? In our classrooms, many students face systemic barriers that grit alone cannot overcome. That’s why it’s essential for educators to understand that grit must be supported by community, self-efficacy, and equity-driven practices. Understanding Grit in the Classroom Angela Duckworth defines grit as a sustained commitment to long-term goals despite obstacles. But through my own work and the development of the G.R.I.T. Framework, I’ve found that true grit includes more than persistence. It’s also about Growth mindset, Resilience, Intentional self-efficacy, and Time management—all supported by a strong community and a belief in one’s ability to succeed. To learn more about this approach, check out my TEDx Talk: 🎥 [ “The Power of G.R.I.T.” TEDx Talk ] And if you're looking for practical tools to implement in your classroom or school community, you can explore and download the G.R.I.T. Framework and G.R.I.T. Workbook on my website, www.india-white.com 📘 Let’s explore how educators can integrate these principles to help every student not only persist—but thrive. 1. Cultivate a Supportive Community ✅ Build Relationships Create a safe, inclusive environment by getting to know your students. Invite them to share their stories and experiences to strengthen classroom trust. ✅ Use Storytelling as Empowerment Lean into Rudine Sims Bishop’s concept of mirrors, windows, and sliding glass doors—letting students see themselves, others, and opportunities through storytelling. Representation matters. 2. Acknowledge Systemic Barriers ✅ Name the Inequities Be honest about the social, economic, and cultural challenges your students may face. Acknowledgment leads to empowerment and helps normalize discussions around equity. ✅ Share Your Journey Talk about your own privileges and struggles. Vulnerability builds bridges and shows students that growth is possible; even through adversity. 3. Empower Student Leadership ✅ Promote Collective Agency Encourage students to be “ genius influencers ”—train them to see themselves as leaders who support one another and recognize their ability to shape positive change in their communities. ✅ Foster Collaboration Group work and peer learning cultivate community resilience and affirm the idea that we rise together. 4. Embrace Culturally Relevant Teaching ✅ Make Learning Reflective Design curriculum that reflects your students’ lived experiences and cultures . This combats bias and validates identity for all learners (Ladson-Billings, 1994). ✅ Encourage Critical Consciousness Help students think deeply about social justice, equity, and their own role in fostering inclusive environments. 5. Build Strong Mathematical Identities ✅ Promote Belonging in Math Create learning spaces where every student—especially those with disabilities or marginalized identities, which this helps students feel capable, celebrated, and seen . ✅ Use Real-World Connections Ground math in everyday experiences. When students see how math connects to THEIR world, they’re more likely to engage meaningfully. This helps to eliminate any invisible barriers and mistrust in the classroom. 6. Implement Dr. India’s G.R.I.T. Framework :) ✅ Foster Self-Efficacy Help students set achievable goals and celebrate small wins. Confidence grows when students believe their effort matters, and that you believe in them. ✅ Build Support Networks Facilitate relationships with mentors, peers, and community members who can serve as allies in your students’ educational journey. (Don't underestimate the power of community) Learn more and access the full G.R.I.T. Framework and accompanying workbook at: 🔗( https://www.india-white.com/what-does-grit-mean-to-you) Final Thoughts: My Humanity Is Tied Up in Yours; We're in this Together! The journey of teaching is deeply human. Every interaction we have with students—every lesson, every word of encouragement, every challenge we help them overcome—shapes not only their lives, but our own. Let’s recommit ourselves to teaching with grit, grace, and empathy. Now, here are some Teacher Action Tips for your consideration: Make space for storytelling in your classroom. Reflect on and address systemic inequities regularly. Facilitate peer support systems. Use culturally relevant texts and lessons. Set and celebrate realistic goals with students. Show students they matter—every single day. References Duckworth, A. L., Peterson, C., Matthews, M. D., & Kelly, D. R. (2007). Grit: Perseverance and passion for long-term goals. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 92(6), 1087–1101. Sims Bishop, R. (1990). Mirrors, windows, and sliding glass doors. Perspectives, 6(3), 9–11. Ladson-Billings, G. (1994). The Dreamkeepers: Successful Teachers of African American Children. Jossey-Bass. White, I. (n.d.). G.R.I.T. Framework. Retrieved from [www.india-white.com](https://www.india-white.com/what-does-grit-mean-to-you) TEDx Talk: [The Power of G.R.I.T.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9YQOtryL7w&t=1s) Together, we can build resilient, empowered learners—one gritty classroom at a time. 💪📚 #GRITinEducation #EquityInLearning #CulturallyRelevantTeaching #StudentEmpowerment #TeacherLeadership #GrowthMindset #DrIndiaWhite
By India White June 23, 2025
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By India White June 23, 2025
Join us fo r the latest episode of the Let's Get Gritty Podcast with Dr. India White!
By India White June 18, 2025
🌟 Just wrapped up an enlightening session on the sense of belonging at the NCTM - NCTE Joint Conference! 🎉 As educators, we explored the crucial distinction between fostering a culture of inclusion versus facing feelings of dejection in our classrooms. It was inspiring to see so many passionate teachers engaged in this important dialogue. Let's continue to strive for acceptance and enrich the learning environment for all students! 🙌 #drindiawhite #inclusion #dejection #acceptance #nctm #ncte #LitMath25 #bwxme #NAACP (I don’t own copyright to music or background)
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