It’s Time to Take Out the Trash: Detoxing from ALL Negativity! – India White
Admin • November 26, 2019
Can you imagine seeing an eagle in the sky with a garbage back tied around its ankle, or an ankle brace as it aims to soar the skies? Well, I know you’re probably thinking, “Poor bird, someone needs to free that bird of the baggage so it can fly!” Guess what: that’s EXACTLY the purpose of my post for you today!
As we end the year, it’s imperative that we begin planning for a phenomenal New Year, and that we link up with people that need us and that we desire to be with. HOWEVER, We must make sure that we are taking the appropriate steps as we prepare:
- We Must Choose to Forgive- Holding on to petty grudges of 5 to 10 years ago is doing nothing but burdening your spirit. Forgive people who have betrayed you, tried to ruin your reputation, stole your business ideas, stabbed you in the back, created wedges in healthy relationships and more. We must understand that not everybody is spiritually or mentally healthy. Listen, everyone will fail in some fashion or another. Furthermore, even among those who should be shining examples to the world, there “godly” persons are dealing with much mental illness and emotionally baggage that has caused them to miss the mark in becoming all that God desires for them to be. Hence, you’ll find that sometimes people in general can be confusing advertisement for who they say they are and what they claim to represent. We must choose to forgive them for falling short and also remember that we also have fallen short.
- Cut these folks off!
- You will find that as an eagle soars the skies, they will run into peasants, pelicans, buzzards, and other sorts of flock. Remember that birds of a feather flock TOGETHER. Listen, if people come into your life and the VIBE Is OFF: Run for your life! Some of these people are simply pigeons and buzzards trying to take from you, whether its an idea, a business opportunity, a relationship or just to DRAIN your spirit. If you find that AFTER you hang out with a particular person or group and you feel like “all you do is give” and never receive back, it’s time to cut the cords! If they never invest in you or celebrate your success- they are probably envious, jealous or just bitter because they are slacking in their destiny. Guess what! You don’t have time for this foolishness! CUT THEM OFF!
- Burying Your Talent for Them- If you have to constantly BEG for acceptance and to be considered in a project, or in an opportunity, even service to your community or your church or etc, it’s time to wake up and move on! It is not the will of God that after you’ve presented your talent that you have to deal with controlling and insecure partners who will not allow you to blossom into the great person that God has shown you. You might be asking, “How do I conquer this?” My response: move forward to the audience that is celebrating you! That means you might have to go live on social media, YouTube, or etc. STOP WAITING AROUND FOR PEOPLE TO ENDORSE YOU! It just won’t happen because people are people.
- Hurt People Hurt People- You might be hanging around someone because they’ve been hurt and you empathize with them. Guess what: until they are willing to be released from the hurt and move forward, they will find a means to HURT you. Yes, you! Even if you are their #1 fan. This my friends is what will leave you questioning how you got into particular situations when you saw the RED FLAGS!” However, maybe this post will help you move forward now before you are hurt even more by those who are bleeding inside. This is probably one of the toughest things to do, to let go of someone who is hurting. However, if they want you in their lives, they will return to you for business, relationship or etc when they can see clearly and realize that you were actually good for them.
- Jealous or Envious – These people are interesting lol. Why interesting? Because some will approach you knowing that they will never support you and that if they could kill you, they would. You must mark these people and learn to play the game until they fade away. If you aren’t sure whether or not someone is jealous or envious, here’s a test: Tell them about a recent promotion, or something you purchased, or etc. See what the response is…if they aren’t celebrating you, they are probably jealous or envious. Another thing to look for: Did they just try to copy your brand? Are they trying to steal your clients and post up your ideas as their own? If so, watch out! You need to understand that these frenemies are waiting to strike. So, how do you deal with these people who are held hostage by jealous and envy? Pray for them, celebrate them but NEVER tell them your next move. If you choose to keep them around, it will be a burden…it would be best to move forward into the new year WITHOUT them.
- In COMPETITION With You! Ugh…lol. These folks here….I don’t know why some people are so hurt inside that they feel like they always have to be #1 in EVERYTHING.. However, I am no longer naïve and realize that people are like this in today’s world. Hence, when you realize someone is in competition with you, how do you handle it? Answer: Take away the competition and let them win. LOL. Just walk away from their pettiness. Why? If you don’t they will try to raise your blood pressure with all of their new ideas, events, relationships, and etc. You don’t have time for that. Stay focused on what God is doing and be PLEASED with HIM saying well done in your life. If you life as unto the Lord, who cares what everyone else is doing? This will surely put your mind and wasted energies at rest.
- Insecure – An insecure man or woman is not confident in themselves. Hence, they spend thousands of dollars to look like a million bucks (I’m not talking getting dolled up every now in then which is good- this is excessive due to their insecurity and self-hatred). They also tear down EVERYONE and EVERYTHING that “shows them up” in any way or fashion. This could be in business, relationship and kingdom. Therefore, when dealing with an insecure person, help them out by NOT telling them about what God is doing for you and of your latest projects. Just let them see you posted later on in life
You can’t trust an insecure person, because unless they get the victory, they will strike against you sooner or later. Sorry to spill these beans, but it’s just true. - Just can’t put my finger on it “Vibe”- Listen, when you gut is telling you something is off, or you have a discernment, you need to trust it and listen to it. I don’t care how many people are praising that person or that company- if your spirit is telling you that they aren’t for you, then they aren’t for you. Move forward without them.
- Enemies- Sometimes we have enemies/haters around just because its good businessHowever, where God is taking some of us, it’s not a good idea to have them around as you’re trying to soar. How can you tell whether you have an enemy or no? Let them show you their TRUE colors- then, believe them and MARK them as an enemy. Believe me, bad blood is bad blood and there’s nothing you can do to change this. This is why the Bible speak of enemies and even says “Thou prepares a TABLE before me in the presence of mine ENEMIES.” Sometimes, we have to come out of the clouds and know that an enemy is an enemy and move on without them. I don’t care if they are in church with you, in business with you or in the same circle of influence as you- mark them!
- You Can’t Succeed Because I Didn’t- WOW. I know many of you are reading this and can relate. Some people tell you that you’re too young to be that successful, that educated or that happy. Or, because THEY had to wait 20 years before they started, so do you. RUN FOR YOUR LIFE. This TOXIC mindset will have you carrying unnecessary baggage and missing opportunities for YEARS! Ugh to them and keep it moving. How do you handle old mindsets like this? Keep your accomplishments and dreams to yourself; these people will NOT help you move ahead. Don’t be deceived. They are stuck and choose to be and they want you there too. Just move forward and leave them behind. Crabs will remain in the Crabpot- You don’t have time for that. You have greatness to purse, so release yourself while you have the chance!
- Stay Focused- You are getting ready to press into a NEW year where the Sky is the limit! It’s time to write the vision and make it plain! Get ready to prepare for your destiny like never before. Find you tribe and get ready to dance as you see it all unfold before your eyes. Proclaim what you want, because that is what you’ll get!
Conclusion
As you press forward into a NEW year and a NEW mindset, please feel free to take these tokens with you. I wish you nothing but the best as you move forward. The best is yet to come. For those of you that receive me and my energy, may GOD grant you 100 fold blessing! To every enemy, you’re in the LORD’s hands
Have a blessed holiday season and remember, this NEW year is FILLED with wonderful opportunities just for you!
Need more encouragement? Check out my biography “Double for My Trouble” or my “Motivational flipbook for Overcomers” when you have a chance!
a. Double for my Trouble! – https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=497T5TS9M2EVA
b. Motivational Flipbook- https://www.amazon.com/Flip-Book-Overcomers-Overcome-Anything/dp/1691270253/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=india+white+flipbook&qid=1574778358&sr=8-1
Remember: You can Overcome….Anything!
India White- Motivational Speaker, Author, Life Coach, National Ed. Consultant, Math Expert, Life Coach, Licensed Minister, Doctoral Student, Rockstar Mommy
The post It’s Time to Take Out the Trash: Detoxing from ALL Negativity! – India White appeared first on India White.
Coming Full Circle: Returning to Sarasota with Gratitude and G.R.I.T. I am filled with gratitude and emotion as I prepare to return to Sarasota; not just as a speaker, but as someone whose life was forever changed by the generosity, vision, and grit of this community. Many years ago, I stood on the other side of opportunity as a formerly homeless teen, supported by scholarships made possible by leaders and organizations—many of whom will be in the room when I return. Those investments were not just financial; they were votes of confidence. They said, “We see you. We believe in your future.” And that belief changed everything. To now come back and say thank you; not in words alone, but through purpose-driven work—is truly humbling. Honoring a Legacy of Advocacy and Impact This moment is especially meaningful as we continue the legacy of Rep. Detert, a tireless advocate for students, education, and formerly homeless youth like myself. Her leadership embodied what it means to pair policy with compassion and action with accountability. She didn’t just talk about equity—she fought for it. That legacy lives on in the leaders, educators, and community members who refuse to let circumstance define a child’s future. The G.R.I.T. of This Organization What stands out most about this organization and its leaders is their impeccable G.R.I.T.**—growth mindset, resilience, self-efficacy, and time invested wisely in people. This is not performative work. This is long-haul, legacy-building leadership. You don’t just open doors—you walk alongside young people until they’re strong enough to run through them. A Personal Thank You Returning to Sarasota is deeply personal. It is a reminder that when communities choose to invest in potential, the ripple effects last generations. I am living proof that grit grows when someone believes in you long enough to help you believe in yourself. Thank you for sowing seeds years ago. Thank you for continuing the work. And thank you for allowing me to return—not just to speak, but to honor a legacy that helped shape my life. This is full circle. And we’re just getting started. 💙
Grit Meets AI: Reflections from the Florida Distance Learning Association Conference This past week, I had the absolute pleasure of presenting at the Florida Distance Learning Association Conference, and I’m still energized by the conversations, questions, and passion I witnessed from professors and K–12 educators across the state and beyond. My session focused on G.R.I.T. and Artificial Intelligence in the math space (Grades K–12); and more importantly, how we can responsibly and intentionally use AI to strengthen learning rather than replace good teaching. G.R.I.T. + AI = Powerful Instruction During the session, I shared how my G.R.I.T. framework, Growth Mindset, Resilience, Self-Efficacy, and Time Management, can serve as a guardrail for AI integration in mathematics. AI is not here to do the thinking for* students; it’s here to help students think better. We explored how AI can: * Support productive struggle rather than shortcut it * Differentiate instruction while maintaining high cognitive demand * Build student confidence through feedback and reflection * Help teachers reclaim time without sacrificing rigor From elementary number sense to secondary algebra and beyond, AI—when paired with grit—becomes a powerful ally in equity-centered math instruction. A Call to Professors and Teachers Whether you teach future educators at the university level or students in a K–12 classroom, my encouragement is this: don’t fear AI—frame it. When grounded in pedagogy, purpose, and perseverance, AI can help us close gaps instead of widening them. If you’re preparing teachers, now is the time to model what ethical, effective, and gritty AI use** looks like in practice. Let’s Stay Connected If this message resonates with you, I invite you to continue the work with me: * 📘 Explore my books and G.R.I.T. resources designed for educators and leaders * 🎤 Book me to speak or lead professional learning for your school, district, or conference * 🌐 Visit my website for tools, courses, and upcoming events Together, we can ensure that innovation never outpaces intention—and that grit remains at the heart of learning in every classroom, whether in person or online. Let’s get gritty. Let’s get intentional. And let’s lead the future of math education—wisely and boldly. 💪📊🤖
Join us at the Let's Get Gritty Podcast with Dr. India White!
February Energy, Connection, and Celebration—Our Newsletter Is Live! 🎉 I’m so excited to share our February Newsletter, and whew—what a month it has already been! February has been full of learning, laughter, inspiration, and powerful connections, all while we celebrate Black History Month and continue the work of building equity and excellence in education. One of the biggest highlights this month was presenting aUtah Council of Teachers of Mathematics (UCTM)**. Connecting with educators in person in Utah was such a joy. The energy in the rooms, the thoughtful questions, the shared commitment to students—it reminded me why I love this work so much. Teachers showed up curious, gritty, and ready to grow, and I left feeling deeply encouraged. At the same time, I had the opportunity to connect with educators online through Florida Distance Learning Association (FDLA), and let me tell you—virtual spaces can be just as powerful! Engaging with teachers across distances, sharing ideas, and learning together in real time was an absolute blast. Whether in Utah or online, the common thread was clear: educators are hungry for tools that help students thrive. And February isn’t slowing down yet! I’m counting down the days as I prepare to serve as a keynote speaker for the Junior League of Sarasota at the end of the month. I’m truly honored and excited to share space with leaders who are committed to impact, service, and community transformation. This month’s newsletter captures all of that momentum—where I’ve been, what’s coming next, and how we can stay connected. If you haven’t checked it out yet, I invite you to take a look, share it, and reach out. Let’s collaborate, dream big, and keep building together. February is reminding me that connection fuels purpose—and I’m grateful for every educator, leader, and partner walking this journey with me. Let’s keep celebrating, learning, and getting gritty—together. 💛✨
🌟 What an ABSOLUTELY PHENOMENAL time at UCTM presenting on grit games! 🎉 The educators in Utah are truly AMAZING! I feel so blessed to share insights on grit and connect with new friends—cheering each other on to get pumped up again! 💪✨ Had a hilarious time trying to throw hoops with Dan (I only made ONE shot—let’s just say my accuracy needs some work! 😂🏀). It was fantastic to connect with such inspiring friends and leaders in the math community, sharing exciting updates that Savvas has for all the math teachers out there! 📚🔍 BIG shoutout to the UCTM board, Jackie, the Savvas team, and all the incredible Utah educators! Thanks for a blast of a time! 🚀🙌 #GritAndGames #UpliftEducators #MathMagic #ConnectAndInspire #SavvasUpdates #FunInEducation ✨❤️ (I don’t own music copyright)
I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to speak at UCTM 2026. The energy in the rooms was powerful, and several sessions were filled with educators eager to grow, reflect, and strengthen their practice—especially during my session on building gritty thinking in the classroom. Experiences like this remind me why this work matters so deeply. Teachers came ready to engage in meaningful conversations about productive struggle, perseverance, and how to move beyond surface-level engagement into true student thinking. One of the highlights was hearing how excited educators were about the new Savvas math books and the way these resources support conceptual understanding, collaboration, and confidence for learners at all levels. When curriculum, instruction, and mindset align, we truly begin to bridge the gap for students. At the heart of these conversations was the powerful connection between Thinking Classrooms and my G.R.I.T. Framework—Growth Mindset, Resilience, Self-Efficacy, and Time Management. Together, they create learning environments where students don’t just solve problems, they learn how to persist, reflect, and believe in themselves. Building grit starts with a growth mindset. In a thinking classroom, struggle is not a setback—it’s evidence of learning. Teachers can normalize this by celebrating multiple strategies, modeling mistakes, and using language that reframes being “stuck” as part of the thinking process. When students understand that effort and revision are expected, they engage more deeply and take greater ownership of their learning. Resilience grows through collaboration. Thinking classrooms thrive when students work together, share ideas, and wrestle with concepts as a team. Random grouping, structured roles, and intentional math discourse help students learn that perseverance is strengthened in community. When learners support one another, they build confidence and stamina to tackle challenging tasks. Self-efficacy develops when student thinking is valued. Using vertical non-permanent surfaces like whiteboards lowers the fear of making mistakes and encourages risk-taking. Asking students to explain their reasoning and highlighting their ideas—whether complete or still developing—signals that their thinking matters. Over time, students begin to see themselves as capable mathematicians. Time management is another critical component of grit. Teachers can support this by breaking tasks into phases, using visual timers, and guiding students to reflect on how they used their time. These habits help students learn to pace themselves, stay focused, and persist through complex problems—skills that extend far beyond the math classroom. The questions we ask also shape gritty thinking. Instead of rescuing students, we can ask questions that prompt reflection and strategy: What do you already know? What have you tried so far? What could you try next? These questions keep students engaged in the process and strengthen their independence as thinkers. Finally, reflection brings it all together. Ending lessons with opportunities for students to reflect on effort, strategies, and moments of perseverance reinforces that grit is just as important as correctness. When we celebrate persistence as much as achievement, students learn that growth happens over time. UCTM 2026 was a powerful reminder that educators everywhere are committed to creating classrooms where students feel supported, challenged, and empowered. I am grateful for every teacher who showed up ready to learn, collaborate, and push their thinking. Let’s stay gritty, keep learning together, and continue bridging the gap so every learner has the opportunity to thrive.
🎉 Exciting news, teachers! 🎓✨ I’m gearing up for an amazing trip to UCTM, and I want YOU to join the fun! Don’t forget to check out my latest video where I reveal some fantastic door prizes that could be yours! 🎁🙌 Let’s connect, learn, and make unforgettable memories together. Click the link and find out how you can win! 🚀💼 👉✨ #UCTM2026 #TeachersRock #drindiawhite #nabse @#foryou (I don’t own copyright to music ) Let’s make this an event to remember! 🙏🎉
It’s Official! The 60-Day Weight Loss & G.R.I.T. Discipline Reset Has Launched 🎉 I’m excited to officially announce the launch of my newest transformational experience—the 60-Day Weight Loss & G.R.I.T. Discipline Reset! This course has been thoughtfully designed for individuals who are ready to stop starting over and finally build the discipline, consistency, and mindset needed to see lasting results. Led by Dr. India White, this 8-week online course goes beyond traditional weight loss programs. It focuses on sustainable change through my proven G.R.I.T. Framework: Growth Mindset, Resilience, Self-Efficacy, and Time Management. This isn’t about extremes or quick fixes—it’s about building habits that fit real life and last well beyond 60 days. What’s Included Participants receive access to: * An introductory video to reset your mindset and set clear expectations * Eight weekly modules that build discipline step by step * A conclusion video to help you transition from a reset to a lifestyle Each week is intentionally structured to help you strengthen both your body and mind, so progress doesn’t disappear once motivation fades. Why This Course Works So many weight loss programs focus only on what to eat or how to exercise—but they ignore the mental discipline required to stay consistent. This course fills that gap. You’ll learn how to: * Stay resilient during setbacks * Manage your time realistically * Build confidence through small, sustainable wins * Create routines that work even on busy days To deepen the experience, I highly encourage participants to pair the course with the 60-Day Weight Loss G.R.I.T. Workbook, available on Amazon. The workbook provides daily reflections, habit tracking, and accountability tools that align with each week of the course. Who This Course Is For This course is perfect for: * Individuals ready to lose weight with structure and purpose * Busy professionals, educators, leaders, and entrepreneurs * Fitness trainers and wellness professionals * Anyone seeking discipline, clarity, and long-term results Enroll Today If you’ve been waiting for the right time to recommit to your health, this is it. The 60-Day Weight Loss & G.R.I.T. Discipline Reset course is now live and ready for you. 👉 Click the link to purchase and enroll today 👉 Start your 60-day reset 👉 Build discipline that lasts a lifetime Your healthiest, most disciplined self is within reach—and G.R.I.T. is the bridge to get you there.
From Homelessness to Hope: Moving from Surviving to Thriving at Resilient Beyond Measure Serving as a keynote speaker at the Resilient Beyond Measure Conference was not only fun, it was deeply meaningful. The room was filled with leaders, educators, and purpose-driven individuals who were hungry for more—more clarity, more impact, and more hope. That collective energy reminded me why I continue to show up and share my story. During my keynote, I spoke candidly about my journey—one that did not begin on a stage, in a boardroom, or with titles behind my name. I shared how I once experienced homelessness, uncertainty, and moments where survival was the only goal. There were seasons when simply making it through the day felt like the win. Yet, through grit, faith, discipline, and relentless perseverance, that season did not define my destination. Today, by God’s grace and years of intentional work, I now serve as a math textbook author, educator, national speaker, and entrepreneur, helping impact millions of students, teachers, leaders, and organizations across the nation. My story is living proof that where you start does not dictate where you finish. At the heart of my keynote was a bold challenge: we must stop normalizing survival mode. Survival is reactive. Thriving is intentional. I shared my G.R.I.T. framework, which continues to be the foundation of my work and message: Growth Mindset — shifting from “I can’t” to “I’m learning” Resilience — developing the stamina to rise again and again Self-Efficacy — believing deeply that you are capable and equipped Time Management — aligning time with purpose, not pressure When these four pillars work together, individuals don’t just cope—they transform. One of the metaphors that resonated strongly with the audience was the idea that many of us are living and leading in low-level energy spaces, when we were designed for more. I described this as moving from survival-level “beta rays” toward higher levels of clarity and impact. Beta represents survival mode —stress-driven, reactive, exhausted, and constantly responding to emergencies. Alpha reflects stability and focus —calmer thinking, reflection, and clearer decision-making. Theta symbolizes creativity and deep connection —innovation, vision, and problem-solving begin to flourish. Gamma represents peak performance and transformation —high-level thinking, purpose, alignment, impact, and legacy. Thriving means intentionally moving away from beta-level survival and stepping into gamma-level living and leadership—where our actions are aligned with purpose, vision, and long-term impact. I want to extend my sincere thanks to Jackie Walker for the invitation and opportunity to keynote such a powerful conference. Resilient Beyond Measure created a space where authenticity, healing, and growth were not just encouraged—they were activated. It was truly an honor to serve and connect with such an inspiring community. I was also excited to share my newest book, Stop Surviving, Start Thriving, which expands on the message of the keynote and provides practical tools to help readers move from burnout to breakthrough. The book is accompanied by a new course designed to walk participants step by step through applying the G.R.I.T. framework in real life—not just reading about it, but living it. In addition, leaders are invited to explore the G.R.I.T. Workbook for Leaders, created to support sustainable leadership, confidence, resilience, and intentional growth. If this message resonates with you, I would love to stay connected. Visit my website at www.india-white.com to learn more about my work, speaking engagements, and resources. Both Stop Surviving, Start Thriving and the G.R.I.T. Workbook for Leaders are available today! Whether you are an educator, leader, entrepreneur, or someone simply ready for more, remember this: you were never meant to just survive. With grit, vision, and intention, thriving is not only possible—it’s your calling. With gratitude and grit, Dr. India White
EXCITING NEWS!! I am thrilled to share some incredible news with you all! After months of hard work and dedication, I am proud to announce the launch of my new book, "Stop Surviving, Start Thriving: A Grit Framework for Leaders." This book is designed to empower leaders like you with the insights and strategies needed to elevate your leadership journey and truly thrive in today’s challenging environment. What You’ll Discover in My Book In "Stop Surviving, Start Thriving," I delve into the grit framework that will help you harness your strengths, overcome obstacles, and lead with confidence. Whether you’re an established leader or someone just starting your journey, this book is filled with practical advice and actionable steps to make a meaningful impact. Why This Book Matters: - Transformational Insights: Learn how to shift your mindset from merely surviving to genuinely thriving in your role. - Practical Strategies: Gain access to tools and techniques that you can implement right away to enhance your leadership effectiveness. - Inspiration: Discover stories and examples that will motivate you to take your leadership to the next level. Introducing the Stop Surviving, Start Thriving Course! In addition to the book, I am thrilled to announce the launch of the Stop Surviving, Start Thriving Course! This course complements the book perfectly, providing you with an interactive experience to dive deeper into the concepts covered and gain practical tools that you can use in your daily leadership practice. What to Expect from the Course: - Interactive Learning: Engaging modules that challenge you to think critically and apply lessons to your leadership style. - Real-Life Applications: Practical exercises and discussions that make the concepts relatable and actionable. - Community Support: Join a network of like-minded individuals who are also on their journey to thrive! Where to Find the Book and Course You can grab your copy of "Stop Surviving, Start Thriving" on Amazon by following this link: Amazon Link ( https://a.co/d/c8BNlS9 ). 📖 For those eager to join the course, it's available on my website here: Stop Surviving, Start Thriving Course ( https://www.india-white.com/store/Stop-Surviving-Stop-Thriving-Online-Course-p657410057 ). 🌐 Join Me on This Transformative Journey! I am so excited about this new chapter and can’t wait for you to explore the book and course. Together, let’s stop surviving and start thriving! Your leadership journey begins now. Thank you for your continued support, and I look forward to hearing your thoughts on the book and the course! Let’s thrive together! 💥