Name: Jocelyn James
Age: 31
Occupation: Owner/Founder CenterState Bookkeeping
Grand goal in life: Empower and inspire
When not working, I . . . like to spend time with my family enjoying all the wonderful outdoor hobbies Florida has to enjoy.
What I like about Ocala: Everything. I was born and raised in Ocala. I enjoy the small town feel. The springs and natural landscape, being close to the beach, great fishing, beautiful pastures of horses. I think Ocala is a wonderful place to live.
Pet peeve: Repetitive or inefficient processes. I like things to be simple and streamlined.
Philosophy of life word: Persistence
Personal superpower: Connection.
Superhuman power I’d like: I would like to give people the gift of
Favorite cause: NAMI of Ocala. National Alliance for Mental Illness.
Guilty pleasure: Plants. Indoor, outdoor, vegetables, flowers, I love them all.
Historical dinner date: This is a really hard question, I’m not sure I can answer. I admire so many historical figures. The one that pops into my mind first is Joan of Arc. She was a peasant girl who went on to lead a French army ending the 100 years’ war with the English at the age of 19. I would love to spend an hour discussing her rise to sainthood despite being born in a time where, for a peasant girl, you were not taught to read and write. Her story is inspiring because a person can do anything with faith and determination. I believe this with my whole heart. She is the embodiment of this.
People who know me say I am . . . Driven and easy to talk to.
Biggest professional achievement: Building a business that allows me to be available for my children while still employing other stay at home parents.
Favorite part of my profession: Connecting with local business owners and helping alleviate some of the stress of business ownership. I can sense the weight being lifted as I explain how I can take over many administrative duties and help them gain more time professionally and personally.