Today we’d like to introduce you to D’Andre J. Lacy.
It’s an honor to speak with you today. Why don’t you give us some details about you and your story. How did you get to where you are today?
My name is D’Andre Jamal Lacy and for many years I struggled with depression, low-self esteem, and questioned my very existence. I didn’t feel like I was talented or gifted and never seemed to fit into any social group. Through the loving care of family, my relationship with Jesus Christ and on-going self-work, I found my true identity and purpose in life: to inspire other people who struggled as I did and help others to find their purpose in life through the telling of my story and sharing of the wisdom I gained along the way.
I’m sure your success has not come easily. What challenges have you had to overcome along the way?
As I stated earlier, I have battled depression, low self-esteem, and post-traumatic stress disorder stemming from witnessing my mother nearly lose her life in an assault from my father during a manic episode of his bipolar disorder. I have always felt like “an old soul trapped in a young man’s body”, so growing up I struggled socially.
The blessing in all of my challenges was they all played a part in developing my discernment, intuition and emotional intelligence. The experience of not fitting in allowed me to see the world from a different perspective in order to better empathize with others. Although I have grown and developed as a person who no longer struggles with those issues to that same magnitude, I still have that perspective and understanding of being on the other side of that type of pain which allows me to relate to others.
Let’s talk about the work you do. What do you specialize in and why should someone work with you over the competition?
I most recently published my first book Out of the Ashes: Finding the Purpose in Your Pain (available on Amazon or DJLinspires.com) , and I want to utilize the principles in that book to travel the world and inspire others with its message of hope. I specialize in mentoring/coaching people to find their purpose in life. I believe what sets me apart from most speakers is that I like to refer to myself as an inspirational lover/speaker instead of a motivational speaker. I choose this distinction because inspiration comes from within while motivation is dependent upon something or someone outside of yourself.
What’s your best piece of advice for readers who desire to find success in their life?
I believe success is not something to be chased, but it is something that is attracted to authentic people who are building a life that is true to their genuine essence. My main piece of advice to people seeking success is to determine what their values and gifts are and how those two things intersect to solve a problem or provide a service to others. Once this is established, it will be a compass that points them in the direction of their purpose and it will allow them to be successful in tangible, monetary and relational ways.
Speaking of success, what does the word mean to you?
Success to me is building a life that allows one to walk in their purpose. If your life constantly cause you to violate your core values, regardless of how much money or fame you obtain, it will be miserable and a waste. Success is doing what God created you to do while operating in your gifts.
What’s next for you?
In the future, I want to record an audio version of my book, create a course that coincides with the sentiments of each chapter and begin to book speaking engagements in-person or virtually to spread this message around the world.
Finally, how can people connect with you if they want to learn more.
If people want to connect with me they can find me on Twitter and Instagram @DJLinspires, Facebook at DJL Inspires, email me at DAndreJLacy@djlinspires.com or visit my website DJLinspires.com.