 "Photo: Photo by Jasmine Genross")
Students received a shot of a mental monster energy boost, minus the unhealthy additives, in hopes of stimulating self-esteem and camaraderie. On Wednesday, Oct., 14 Arel Moodie, a motivational speaker, visited the Ybor campus with an uplifting message that inspired students to believe that they are awesome.
SGA senators invited the 25-year-old entrepreneur and New York Times best-selling author to speak with the student body about reaching outside their comfort zones, accomplishing their goals and becoming effective leaders.
“We went to conventions in April, as well as, in February and he was at one of the conventions speaking; and we loved his atmosphere that he brings, his energy that he brings,” said David Norwood, SGA vice president and business major.
“We felt that it would be very effective for the students to see what it’s like to be successful…and to know how and what it takes to be a better leader.”
The Ybor Room housed the hour-long seminar that greeted students with upbeat hip-hop music and memento’s. Moodie began the workshop with energetic icebreakers which included students “high fiving” their neighbor, while engaging in eye contact and saying with assurance, “you’re awesome.” He jokingly mentioned that these activities may appear a little corny to some, but the message attached was rich and full of importance.
“When you do things that make you feel corny you’re stretching your comfort zone, and if you want to be successful you have to be willing to do the things that other people won’t,” said Moodie.
He encouraged students to set goals for their personal and professional lives. Using an analogy with a piece of tape and $10, he exhibited that without an incentive, many people will reach for easily obtainable goals. When the incentive becomes apparent, the individual will work harder and do what is necessary to reach beyond that goal.
“…You can go a little bit higher if you understand why you’re doing it …like I really get why this is so important,” said Moodie.
“It doesn’t matter what I haven’t accomplished, what matters is what I can do from this point.”
Moodie urged students to hold themselves accountable for ensuring that each goal is accomplished.
“Students should also consider the quality of their friendships and social groups,” said Moodie.
“I will choose quality over quantity any day, “he said.
The younger of two children, Moodie grew up in the Canarsie section of Brooklyn, New York. The product of a biracial marriage, he experienced social challenges that laid the foundation for his successes. His father, a Jamaican-Cuban mix, unknowingly inspired his son to overcome the obstacles of life and utilize them to cultivate the individual he is today.
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