When the world says ‘Not Good Enough’ …

/ expectations, faith, heart, Identity, Infinite Worth, Jesus Christ, judgment, Spirit Powerfully Accessed, Thankful Thursday, together we rise / By Candice Noss

Thankful Thursday
May 22, 2025

Dear Friends,

How do you measure success?

Today, I’m grateful for a powerful reminder about the difference between external validation and internal, God-given truth. I’m thankful for learning more deeply that true success isn’t about how the world sees us—or how it judges our “performance”—but about how God sees us.

Real success is measured by alignment with God and our highest self, not applause or approval from others.

And yet, isn’t it hard to hold onto that truth in a world that often mocks what is sincere, heartfelt, and holy?

Last Saturday, I competed at the Toastmasters International Speech Contest at the district level. To make it there, I had to win at the club, area, and division levels.  The district contest was for division winners across Utah and Idaho and was held in Boise.  I was so excited to share my message at a higher level, on a bigger stage.

I had prepared—physically, mentally, and spiritually, and showed up ready to share my entire heart. The speech I delivered at the competition was by far the best I’ve ever done!!  I shared my message with a power that was far beyond my own, and when I sat down, I was filled with so much joy, knowing— I nailed it!! As I sat there, waiting for the next contestant to deliver their speech, the Spirit confirmed what I already knew: God was pleased.

It felt amazing!!

However— when the results came in… I placed 4th out of 4.

Wait—what?

I was stunned. Could I have been totally off-base? Was I delusional? Then came feedback from the 2005 Toastmasters International Speech Contest winner… and it was harsh, critical, and honestly, demeaning. My unique journey—which includes Jesus Christ, waking up to the truth of the divine design of my life, and learning to own my divine greatness—was not well received. These deeply personal elements, which fall under the spirit piece of our human trifecta, seemed to make the 2005 champion as well as the judges uncomfortable.

I cried. I prayed. I wrestled.

This experience both reminded me and challenged me to let go of the world’s measures of success and anchor myself more fully in God’s. I know it won’t be the last time I’m misunderstood or rejected—and that’s okay. As I lean more deeply into God’s internal validation and the intrinsic measures of success I’ve defined for myself, I feel strengthened to keep going. I will continue to learn, grow, and rise. I’ll keep moving forward, sharing my message and speaking the truths I feel inspired to share.

I will not dim my light or play small to make others comfortable. I am a disciple of Jesus Christ, and if that makes people uncomfortable, that’s okay. I’m here to raise a clarion call—not for fame or favor, but for faithfulness to the message God has planted in my heart.

What about you?

Are you buying into the world’s view of you and forgetting the love and truth of your Heavenly Parents? I invite you to lean into your infinite worth. Own your divine greatness. There will always be critics. The question is: Whose voice will you trust?

Today, I’m choosing to trust God’s. And for that, I’m deeply grateful.

Let’s keep building each other up.
Together we RISE.

Cheering you on always,
Cand

P.S.

This summer, I’m focusing more on one-on-one coaching sessions and less on group programs. If you’re ready to gain clarity, realign your mind, body, and spirit, and move forward with confidence, I’d love to support you.

📞 Call or text: 801-792-4282