God-Sized Dreams | Mental Health, Mindset, Procrastination, Insecurities, Fear, Purpose

Why God Wants More for You and How to Go Back to Church

Is going back to church something you are feeling called to in this holiday season? If so, this podcast episode will give you practical tips on finding a new church.
I'm acknowledging all the elephants and sharing some of my own personal experiences about feeling as if attending church was pointless. I know it sounds harsh, but it appeared that most church attendees were going through the motions. I wanted no part of it until my friend convinced me to try one more time.
Because of Natasha, I gave attending a local church one more chance and I'm grateful for her push. 

Watching online, settling for a podcast with your favorite preacher's messages... (Still love a good Steven Furtick message!) God wants more for you and that is what this podcast is all about!
In this episode, you will be challenged to:
Acknowledge personal fears, rejections, and past hurts that could have you self-protecting and avoiding

Recognize your need for local believers to pray and connect with

Stop living offended and instead use it as an opportunity for intentional conversations

Recognize when avoidance of what is uncomfortable gets in your way of spiritual growth

Trust in God's guidance and provision, remembering my favorite bible verse; Matthew 6:8: Your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.

Be courageous and take steps to go back to church, even if it's terrifying.

Reflect on any past church hurt, remembering that people hurt you, not God and that it's important not to put the church on a pedestal. The church is full of broken people who are in need of a Savior and help.

Research churches in your area, considering factors such as location, denomination, and community involvement, and pick three to try out.

Attend a church service or if you are really uncomfortable, start with a smaller step like a Trunk or Treat or special service churches offer throughout the year, keeping an open mind and heart.

Get involved in a church community by joining a small group, or ministry, or volunteering in an outreach program.

Reflect on any past experiences of rejection or abandonment and how they may be influencing your feelings about attending church

Remember that God is calling you back to the church not only for your own growth but also to be a part of a community of believers and serve others.

 
I've coached dozens of clients through this process over the last year and watched them achieve so much more than they ever thought possible. I'm confident I can help you, too! 
Want to work with me in January? I'd love to help you! Please email me at realtalktribe@mail.com and we can set up a call.  Let's connect:https://www.instagram.com/melissabattofficial/   https://www.facebook.com/melissabattofficial/ https://www.youtube.com/@prioritiesonpurpose https://www.melissabatt.com    

How to make space for God when you are a busy mom

This is an excerpt from a Masterclass, shared with Christian direct sellers, ministry leaders, and those who lead non-profits. We were talking about how to hear from God and read the Bible, and how to make room in our lives to let God lead. We have to obey and be still to be able to recognize God's voice and make time to spend with Him and read the Bible. We have the choice to make room for God or continue on the same path we are on. We need to be obedient, follow God's lead, and not get distracted by other things in order to do kingdom work and make disciples. We need to get rid of what's not serving us and the things getting in the way of our relationship with Jesus.
 
"Stop filling your mind with noise and crap and do the work that He has called you to do. Get yourself together and make room for His word, because the harvest is here and you are called to be a worker!"
In this episode, you will learn the following:
1. How do you develop a deepening relationship with Jesus?
2. What is the importance of knowing the sound of the Shepherd’s voice?
3. How can you use your struggles as a sacrifice to God?
4. How to start reading your Bible and actually understand it?
Resources:Circle the Wagon & Becoming IntentionalOther episodes you'll enjoy:Doing the Uncomfortable, Asking Hard Questions, Trusting God
Getting Out of the Boat & God-Sized Dreams Connect with me: 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissabattofficial/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/melissabattofficial/
Website: https://www.melissabatt.com/Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/priorities-on-purpose-leveling-up-in-life-business/id1652197036Chapter Summaries:
[00:00:00]
Melissa Batt is the host of Priorities on Purpose, a podcast for overwhelmed direct sellers. As a Christian life and business coach, she wants to help you live with intention. She shares proven and simple strategies that will be sure to help live a fulfilled life.
 
 
[00:01:24]
 
In this episode, hear a little bit of the real talk that happened during the Masterclass I did for the Success Lounge called Faith Blockers. Is your faith and your relationship with Jesus where you want it to be? And if not, what can you do about it?
 
 
[00:08:51]
Melissa: God is calling you to kingdom work. You are to go and make disciples. The revival is coming. We need more workers. I challenge you to slow it down. Baby steps, one step at a time. Breakthrough is here.
 
 
[00:15:51]
 
Sometimes it's okay to be on social media, shop, and all the things but we shouldn't use it for comfort.  God is the ultimate comforter.  He can comfort us as nobody else can. 
 
 
[00:17:25]
 
Melissa: If you found value, I would love it if you could take a couple of seconds to leave me a quick review. Also, take a screenshot and share it on social media with your biggest AHA today. Until next time, friend, keep walking it out, one baby step at a time.
 

Try putting down your phone this month

In this episode of Priorities on Purpose, host Melissa Batt challenges overwhelmed direct sellers to stop chasing all the shiny things, get laser-focused, and use the December digital detox challenge to experience more time, peace, impact, money, and opportunities. 
When the world is telling us we need to be online and show up more consistently, I want to give you permission to take some time away and allow God to show off on your behalf.
All of the challenges are based on my own life and the things God used to help me become more intentional. It drew me closer to Him and also helped me get my priorities in alignment. My hope for the monthly challenges is for them to make you more aware of how through anxiety and overwhelm, we can begin living on autopilot and in survival mode.  My mission is to guide and lead you with the challenge but it is mostly what you make of it. You get to choose if you want to do a digital detox for one day, a week, or all month.
Personally, this time around, I'm going to spend weekends doing more intentional things with my family and less time on my phone. And, I am going to put my phone up at night instead of falling asleep scrolling. I may even get in another game of Monopoly with the kids! {IYKYK}
 
Books mentioned and recommended on the podcast: The 40-Day Social Media Fast by Wendy Speake 
 
Want to work with me in January? I'd love to help you! Please email me at realtalktribe@mail.com and we can set up a call. 
 
Let's connect:
https://www.instagram.com/melissabattofficial/  
https://www.facebook.com/melissabattofficial/
https://www.youtube.com/@prioritiesonpurpose
https://www.melissabatt.com   

What does it look like to say YES to God and operate out of radical obedience?

What does an anonymous million-dollar donation and your relationship with Jesus have in common? EVERYTHING.
Join me, Melissa Batt, as I share a powerful message that is guaranteed to offer you hope and give you a little extra pep in your steps. Often times I find walking out my life in faith to be a bit of a roller coaster.  But, regardless, it all has a purpose and God will use it. 
In this episode of Priorities on Purpose, you will be able to:
Understand the power of faith and obedience in your faith journey so you can have a more intimate relationship with God.
Learn what steps to take if you feel clueless about what God's calling is for your life
Encouraged to trust in God's perfect timing and experience the peace that comes from surrendering control.
Recognize that God's asks may be the answered prayer for others
 
Sometimes God puts something on our heart that seems impossible, but with God, all things are possible. - Melissa Batt 
Trusting in God's timing is crucial for us as we attempt to walk in full obedience to God.  His asks may not always make sense to us because we don't see the full picture. Do it anyway. 
The resources mentioned in this episode are:
Start a conversation inside of the Real Talk Tribe community.  If you're looking for a place to connect with like-minded women and discuss topics related to conflict resolution, boundaries, and communication, I invite you to participate. It's designed to be a space for women to connect and support one another.
If you're feeling stuck or overwhelmed in your life, consider working with a life coach. I specialize in helping women navigate conflicts, create boundaries, improve communication, and more. If you're interested in exploring this option, reach out to me for more information.
A huge shout-out to Cleveland Worship Center in Cleveland, Georgia. They've done an incredible job of making my dad feel seen, valued, and known. If you're in the area and looking for a good church, I recommend this one! You can listen to the powerful message from Pastor Mark I refer to during this episode. HERE.  ((I skipped past announcements and worship, and went straight to the message bc of time.) If you don't have Facebook, send me an email and I will try to get you a copy of the message in a different form.
 
Book a free consultation and let's chat:
https://calendly.com/melissabattcoaching/30min
Let's connect:
https://www.instagram.com/melissabattofficial/  
https://www.facebook.com/melissabattofficial/
https://www.youtube.com/@prioritiesonpurpose
https://www.melissabatt.com   
 
And, as always, you can email me at realtalktribe@mail.com at anytime.

Anxiety Struggles: What it looks like, how it shows up, and life hacks to help

From someone who actually understands how hard the bad anxiety days can be
This episode is about anxiety. Lots and lots of anxiety talk. As a Christian Life Coach who works with quite a few women who navigate mental health issues like depression and anxiety, I often open up about my own personal struggles.
I read a journal entry live and go behind the scenes letting listeners in on what a REALLY hard day looks like for someone like me who struggles with Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
I also talk a lot about the craziness and panic I feel related to the overwhelm I experience driving in unfamiliar areas. It's a bit irrational. But, that's the thing, anxiety often seems irrational to others. And, at the same time, the person who is struggling with the thoughts feels completely paralyzed and overwhelmed. 
This episode is for anyone who is or knows someone experiencing anxiety or is curious about learning more about anxiety. 
You can also expect to: 
Gain insight into what life looks like for someone struggling with anxiety
Understanding signs and symptoms of anxiety
Exploring triggers and things that can make us more anxious
Learn coping mechanisms & life hacks to help navigate anxiety and depression more easily
Listen to real talk about what it's like when you can't get out of your bed because life seems too hard.
Be reminded that dealing with anxiety as a Christian doesn't always mean lack of faith
 
In 2018 and early 2019, I was in a major funk and pit of depression. It was then that I made a decision to intentionally choose to do hard things. I flipped the script on my anxiety and when it is possible, I consider it a challenge and call it 'adventure'. (Please note that while it works for me, it isn't a guarantee and definitely depends on other factors as well.)
Why choose adventure? Choosing adventure is willingly giving up control and learning you will be okay. It gives God an opportunity to show off and for you to grow more reliant upon him. It's my anxiety life hack and it truly helps me be less anxious. It will serve you well AND help you grow your faith. Adventure requires faith. Faith produces more faith and helps us learn to be more reliant on God versus relying solely on ourselves.
Are you in survival mode or feel like you are existing and taking up space? It doesn't have to be that way, friend. I am passionate about helping women move forward and live life with passion and purpose. I've been there and lived the life, and now my mission is to give hope and practical tips to help you thrive with peace.
 
Book a free consultation and let's chat:
https://calendly.com/melissabattcoaching/30min
Let's connect:
https://www.instagram.com/melissabattofficial/  
https://www.facebook.com/melissabattofficial/
https://www.youtube.com/@prioritiesonpurpose
https://www.melissabatt.com   
Note: Melissa Batt is a Christian Life Coach, not a physician. She only speaks from her own personal experiences of navigating life with depression, anxiety, and attention deficit disorder (ADD). Nothing shared should be taken as medical advice. Please reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance and the next steps.

Feeling invisible as a single mom and full circle moments with Ashley Haley

Encouragement for Single Moms and Women Everywhere: Ashley Haley's Story of Hope
In a world full of hardships and challenges, one single parent's journey took an unexpected twist. You will love hearing this conversation between Ashley Haley & me on the podcast, Priorities on Purpose. Brace yourself for a tale of resilience, hope, and the power of an anonymous note and a $100 bill that sparked a profound transformation in her life. Tune in to discover the incredible power of faith and how our stories can be used for greater purposes.
My special guest is Ashley Haley
Ashley Haley is a remarkable woman who has overcome numerous obstacles in her life. As a single mom, she faced challenges that tested her strength and resilience. However, through her unwavering faith in God and determination, Ashley rose above her circumstances and found purpose in it all. With a background in nursing and a passion for helping others, she has made a difference in the lives of many through her work. Ashley's journey also led her to the world of direct sales, where she discovered the power of entrepreneurship and the ability to create positive change. Her experiences and insights make her a valuable guest on Priorities on Purpose, as she shares how God can use our stories.
There is joy on the other side of the hardships. We grow through it and persevere. We wouldn't be who we are today without them. I wouldn't change a thing. -Ashley Haley
I was speechless. It meant that someone saw me & I mattered to somebody. Because at the time, I didn't feel like I mattered to anyone. I was just trying to keep my head above water, pay the bills, and take care of my son.-Ashley Haley
In this episode, we dive into:
The world of direct selling & the mistakes we have made.
Overcoming life obstacles when things go sideways; divorce, bankruptcy, government housing, single mom life
Feeling unworthy & helping others feel seen, valued, and loved because of it
Breast Implant Illness and the power of listening to your body
Being obedient and trusting God to boldly share our stories
 
 
Take Action:
Consider the impact of feeling worthy (or unworthy) and how it can affect your life and decisions.
Reflect on the obstacles you have overcome and how they have shaped you.
Learn about breast implant illness and its potential effects.
Pray for ways to positively impact others by giving back and help others
Read James Ch 1 vs 2-3 and think of a time your faith was tested and produced perseverance.
 
Connect with special guest, Ashley: AshleyEhaley31@gmail.com
Shop monogrammed gifts/Thirty-One Gifts: giftswithashley.com
Shop clean beauty products/Beauty Society: Beautysociety.com/Ashley 
Whether you are looking for a life coach or a business coach, make no mistake, my mission is to help you gain more peace and thrive in life. Book a consult and let's chat: 

https://calendly.com/melissabattcoaching/30min
Let's connect:
https://www.instagram.com/melissabattofficial/  
https://www.facebook.com/melissabattofficial/
https://www.youtube.com/@prioritiesonpurpose
https://www.melissabatt.com   

Why living on autopilot is dangerous for your family & life purpose

Prepare for Battle: Conquer Resistance and Find Your Purpose
Have you been going through the motions on autopilot, doing the same thing every day? Do you feel like there has to be more to life than the life you are living? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, discontentment, or just feel completely 'blah' sometimes? Today on the podcast, we are talking about the three words I have been talking about since 2020. If you need a pep talk, this episode is for you and is sure to light a fire under your butt!
Circle the wagon. It's a word God gave me and it is beneficial to all of us. You cannot hear this message enough, it is so important. It's a talk about preparing. There are things you can do today, starting right now. And honestly, through this journey, for myself, there's always more work to do because we're never going to arrive, right? At least, not on this side of heaven.
Spiritual warfare is real. I don't talk about this to scare you. It's to prepare you. The attacks are going to come, but they don't have to hit as hard as they will if you don't get your stuff together. We must get ready. My mission is to help you live the life you were created for and to do it well, we must be prepared. If not, our lives will be full of distractions that derail us from the work God wants us to do.
In this episode, we talk about:
The importance of preparing for resistance and learning how to build resilience in the face of challenges to stay ahead of the curve and confidently navigate any obstacles that come your way.
Overcoming shame and forgiving ourselves or others to be free
Strengthening your marriage, family, health, and finances
Eliminating noise & finding time to focus on main priorities as a mom, business owner, etc
Embracing the journey of life and remembering that it's okay to lead/follow at different times. Focus on knowing where you want to go and taking intentional steps to get there.
Pursuing peace and what that looks like as a Christian
Circle the wagon. It's time to get your crap together. If you don't, who will?!!! Nobody. It is your responsibility. -Melissa Batt
Proactive Strategies for SuccessYou have the ability to forecast potential challenges and develop strategies to alleviate them. Effective planning in key areas such as finances, career, and relationships safeguards our well-being and limits distractions.
The resources mentioned in this episode are:
Get the 12 weeks to success workshop worksheets AND a guide to help you navigate your life with purpose and help you circle the wagon. https://www.melissabatt.com/becoming-intentional
Take action:
Check out Ephesians Chapter 2, verses 14-21 in your Bible to read about finding peace and living with God.
Consider joining a community or finding accountability partners who can support you and provide encouragement when things get tough.
Take time to evaluate your priorities and make sure you're aligning your actions with what truly matters to you.
Take action to pursue peace in your life. This may involve spending more time with God, creating better boundaries, or practicing self-care.
 
 
Whether you are looking for a life coach or a business coach, make no mistake, my mission is to help you gain more peace and thrive in life. Book a consult and let's chat: 
https://calendly.com/melissabattcoaching/30min
 
Let's connect:
 
https://www.instagram.com/melissabattofficial/  
https://www.facebook.com/melissabattofficial/
https://www.youtube.com/@prioritiesonpurpose
https://www.melissabatt.com   
 

48. Is Elevation Church and Steven Furtick for real? My insight after visiting...

Inside Look: Acknowledging the elephants around Pastor Steven Furtick of Elevation Church & sharing my thoughts on my in-person visit. 
Have you ever wondered what it's like to step into the grandeur of Steven Furtick's Elevation Church? The anticipation builds as you approach the sprawling campus, only to find yourself in the overflow section. But here's the twist - what starts as a disappointment soon transforms into a heartfelt connection you never saw coming. The warmth and love exuded by the volunteers go beyond your expectations, making you feel truly seen and valued. Stay tuned to hear how this unexpected twist unfolds and tips that will be helpful if you decide to visit Steven Furtick's Ballantyne campus in North Carolina. Oh, and lots of bonus tips on what you can bring back to your local church.
In this episode, we will discuss:
My thoughts on visiting Elevation Church led by Pastor Steven Furtick.
My tips for attending the Ballantyne campus of Elevation Church in Charlotte, North Carolina
The power of being seen inside the church and impact of being cared for
Acknowledge the culture of empathy and prayer upheld by the volunteers at Elevation Church
Tips to take back to your local church and implement for volunteers and visitors
 
He is serving God and doing the work God has called him to do. Just like everyone else, he's human. That's why we need to read our own Bible instead of settling with listening to someone else read theirs. - Melissa Batt
Discern the significance of accepting individuals where they are in their faith journey. Elevation Church believes in serving both those who need spiritual milk and those who yearn for deeper spiritual instruction. Furtick and his church symbolize an accepting house of worship that caters to the diverse needs of its attendees, ultimately fostering love and embracing all. 
Are you planning to attend live and want quick tips before you visit?
Plan ahead and arrive at the church early to avoid traffic and secure your seat in the main sanctuary. We were staying in a hotel 15 minutes away; an hour was not enough time to get through traffic and get parked. The further off campus you park, the less traffic you will endure. Visit the Elevation Church website to learn more about their campuses and upcoming events. Also, take advantage of the passionate volunteers who are there to assist you.
Send Melissa a DM to let her know if you listen to the Priorities on Purpose podcast and to connect with her.
Whether you are looking for a life coach or a business coach, make no mistake, my mission is to help you gain more peace and thrive in your life.
Book a consult and let's chat: 
https://calendly.com/melissabattcoaching/30min
 
Let's connect:
 
https://www.instagram.com/melissabattofficial/  
https://www.facebook.com/melissabattofficial/
https://www.youtube.com/@prioritiesonpurpose
https://www.melissabatt.com   

Why numbing out is a stumbling block to your spiritual growth & a call to action for all Christians

Unmasking Our Emotions
In this episode, we talk about:
Exploring the profound impact of embracing God's renewal in your life.
Understanding the importance of fostering a healthy soul for overall well-being.
Discovering the strength found in genuine emotional honesty
Recognizing the value of consistent introspection and reflection
Embracing the revolutionary change faith and a relationship with Jesus can bring to our lives.
Faith doesn't mean we limit our emotions to only good emotions. Negative emotions does not mean self-pity, and positive emotions does not mean strong faith. - Dr. Alicia Britt Chole author of The Night is Normal
 
Fostering a Healthy SoulCultivating a healthy soul goes beyond mere physical wellness; it also involves spiritual well-being. Consistent self-evaluation helps in identifying the cultural influences that might be undermining the health of our souls. It is crucial to prioritize personal well-being, regular self-checks, and authentic personal development, which ultimately leads to spiritual growth.
Resources mentioned in this episode are:
Check out Lisa Whittle's book Jesus Over Everything - This book has had a significant impact on my life and I highly recommend it. You can find it at all major book retailers such as Amazon.
 
Take action:
Journaling to God - If you struggle with processing your thoughts and emotions, I encourage you to start journaling to God. It can be a powerful tool for self-reflection and connecting with Him on a deeper level. Find a journal or notebook that you resonate with, and start writing out your prayers, thoughts, and struggles.
Read and reflect on Isaiah 43 - Write down any insights or reflections that come to mind.
Practice emotional honesty - Be honest with yourself and acknowledge where you really are. Avoiding only delays progress.
 
Whether you are looking for a life coach or a business coach, make no mistake, my mission is to help you gain more peace and thrive in life. Book a consult and let's chat: 
https://calendly.com/melissabattcoaching/30min
 
Let's connect:
 
https://www.instagram.com/melissabattofficial/  
https://www.facebook.com/melissabattofficial/
https://www.youtube.com/@prioritiesonpurpose
https://www.melissabatt.com   
 

Mental health struggles and hope for the trial/error issues for those taking medication

Genetic Testing is changing the game and can change your life if you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental illnesses.
If you're feeling trapped in a cycle of trial and error with mental health medications, trying medication after medication without finding the relief you desperately need, then you are not alone! It can be incredibly disheartening to put your hope and trust in a medication, only to experience frustrating side effects or little improvement in your symptoms. Despite your best efforts, you may be left feeling discouraged and hopeless, wondering if there is a better way to manage your mental health. But fear not, because genetic testing in mental health medication management offers a breakthrough solution that can finally provide the personalized approach you've been searching for.
My special guest on this episode is my sister, Kristina Hall
Kristina has struggled with depression and anxiety for over 22 years and assumed that her life would never get better. She felt like she had tried all the meds out there including Zoloft, Paxil, Celexa, Welbutrin, Prozac, and all the other SSRIs. However, after a suggestion from her therapist, she chose to have genetic testing done. Through this she realized she was on the wrong medication and her body didn't metabolize those meds well. This key unlocked the door to personalized medication that works with her specific genetic makeup.
If you or someone you know has struggled with their mental health, get ready to take notes. This episode will give you hope and be a starting point for you to discuss with your doctor. 
Laziness is a symptom of a bigger problem, and a lot of the time it is a mental health issue. - Melissa Batt
In this episode, you will learn how genetic testing paves the way for customized and effective mental health medication strategies with less trial and error. Through a simple and non-invasive cheek swab, you can learn how your genetic makeup determines how your body breaks down the chemicals in the medications. We also talk about the stigma on those who struggle with depression, anxiety, bipolar and other mental health struggles and share resources you may find helpful if you are struggling or supporting someone who is struggling.
Transformative role of genetic testingGenetic testing provides an invaluable tool in determining tailored treatment approaches for mental health issues. It aids in identifying the medications that a person can efficiently metabolize based on their genetic makeup. This can lead to effective mental health treatments, maximize the benefits of medications, and potentially reduce adverse drug reactions.
The resources mentioned in this episode are:
GENESIGHT® (linked here) is the specific testing Kristina had done. It seems to focus more on mental health medications that are commonly prescribed to treat depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other psychiatric conditions.
PGx (linked here) is the test that Melissa had done mentioned at the beginning of the show. This test also gives you information related to dozens of other areas not related to psychological issues such as opioid withdrawal, pain management, overactive bladder, sleep disorders, gastrointestinal, diabetes, dementia, Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis, anesthesia, antifungals, HIV, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, atrial fibrillation, NSAIDS, Vertigo disorder, seizure disorders, COPD and gynecology. It also gives you specific details related to the MTHFR variant.
If you are local to Corbin, Kentucky. Melissa loves Mary Rollins at Heartstrings Mental Health, PLLC in London. You can find out more about this office here. 
To find more support for yourself or loved ones, look for your local NAMI office here. https://www.nami.org
And, remember whether it is for suicide prevention or just to talk with someone who will listen, you can always dial 988 and get connected with someone 24/7.
 
Disclaimer: Melissa Batt is a Christian life coach. She is not a physician. She only speaks of her experiences. Her opinions are her opinions alone and should not be taken as medical advice. Please reach out to your doctor for guidance and next steps. Never stop taking a medication without being under the supervision of your healthcare provider. 
 
Whether it is you struggling or a loved one, you do not have to go through this alone. Book a consult and let's chat: 
https://calendly.com/melissabattcoaching/30min
 
Let's connect:
 
https://www.instagram.com/melissabattofficial/  
https://www.facebook.com/melissabattofficial/
https://www.youtube.com/@prioritiesonpurpose
https://www.melissabatt.com