Her Story: Jennifer Watson
her |hər| pronoun used as the object of a verb or preposition to refer to a female person previously mentioned or easily identified: Her passion for life was inspiring.
Name: Jennifer Watson
Occupation: Author & Speaker
Instagram Handle/Website: @jenniferwatson | www.jenniferreneewatson.com
1. How are you pursuing your God-given purpose and destiny? And what is one thing you would say to encourage someone trying to pursue their God-given purpose today?
I am in full-time ministry and have always had a passion for writing. I spent several years working toward this dream while juggling motherhood, work, and ministry. I kept taking that next obedient step, even if it was scary obedience. In February, my first book will be released. My journey was far from easy, and it wasn't an overnight success. It was messy and challenging mixed with so much joy and determination. My best advice for someone trying to pursue their God-given purpose is to never be afraid to start over, or worry that it's too late for them to live in that sweet spot where their purpose and hard work collide.
2. What motivates or inspires you?
People and their stories inspire me, I'm surrounded by so many incredible people who have impacted my life deeply. My daughters inspire me on a daily basis. I truly believe that a huge part of me working so hard, pursuing my God-given purpose, is because I wanted them to see their mother rise to every challenge, cry when I needed to, and press forward in faith.
3. What books and podcasts are you currently reading and listening to that are helping you to continue growing and learning?
I recently read Road Back To You: An Enneagram Journey to Self-Discovery by Ian Morgan Cron. If you love figuring out what makes people tick and how to love and lead others well, I found this helpful as a tool for understanding how I'm wired as well. Another book that I really loved was Finish: Give Yourself the Gift of Done by Jon Acuff. This book was good for me because I tend to overthink everything when it comes to my work. I’m what I call a "sloppy perfectionist," which basically just means I'm prone to putting things off if I feel like I can't get it 100% perfect.
4. Tell us more about being an author and speaker and how you are using this to make an impact in Market Place Ministry.
I'm in full-time ministry as a pastor's wife and a writer so I fill many different roles. I feel like writing has been the way I have reached beyond my circle of influence locally and in the church to reach women that I've never met. I think we make the biggest impact when others can genuinely see that we care about them and want to serve them by sharing the gifts that God has given us. Whether that's through a book study, podcast, or a product we love that has bettered our life—it's letting them know we are invested in seeing them flourish.
5. What do you love about Equipped by Faith?
I'm all about women supporting other women, especially when it's centered around our faith. I cannot think of a better mission than to equip, inspire, and gather women around our table to invest in them. My passion is connection and community and I love that this is with EBF is all about!
Be sure to follow Jennifer on her journey at @jenniferwatson | www.jenniferreneewatson.com. Jennifer also has a new book releasing on February 19th called Freedom! The Gutsy Pursuit of Breakthrough and the Life Beyond It. Pre-order yours today!
Also, check out Jennifer’s guest faith blog, WHEN FAITH AND LOW EXPECTATIONS COLLIDE.
XO-
Equipped by Faith