Finding Joy In New Identities With Kelsey O'Connor

15/04/2024 55 min Temporada 1
Finding Joy In New Identities With Kelsey O'Connor

Listen "Finding Joy In New Identities With Kelsey O'Connor"

Episode Synopsis

Kelsey O'Connor, a former softball player at NC State University, shares her journey of overcoming a life-changing injury and the impact it had on her identity. She discusses the challenges she faced with her coaching staff and the lack of support she received during her recovery. Despite the difficulties, Kelsey found strength in her faith and the support of her family and friends. She emphasizes the importance of seeing people for who they are beyond their achievements or circumstances. Kelsey's story is a testament to resilience and the power of finding beauty in others. In this conversation, Kelsey O'Connor shares her journey of navigating post-college life and making important decisions about her career and personal growth. Kelsey also talks about the importance of strengthening mental health and seeking support from others. She emphasizes the power of 'acting as if' and collecting data to make informed decisions. Kelsey shares her experience of deciding to stay in Raleigh and the process of building a plan for her future. She encourages listeners to follow their own path and show up as good people. 
You can find Kelsey through her website, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
Takeaways

Overcoming adversity and injury can lead to personal growth and a shift in identity.

The support of family, friends, and a strong faith can provide strength during difficult times.

It is important to see people for who they are beyond their achievements or circumstances.

Finding gratitude and shifting perspective can lead to a more fulfilling and meaningful life. The 'golden handcuffs' refer to the fear of leaving a comfortable job and the uncertainty of finding success in a new role.

Seeking support from others, such as therapists and loved ones, can help strengthen mental health and provide guidance during challenging times.

Acting as if can be a powerful tool for exploring new interests and collecting data to make informed decisions about career paths.

Taking the time to build a plan and consider personal values can lead to more fulfilling and purposeful choices in life.

Following the yes and being open to new opportunities can lead to unexpected paths and personal growth.

Showing up as good people and focusing on personal values can provide a sense of direction and fulfillment in life.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:17 Commencement Speech at NC State
04:00 Impact of the Injury
06:15 Struggles with Recovery
08:08 Challenges with Coaching Staff
10:00 Seeking Help from Administration
12:10 Injury and Recovery Process
13:01 Lack of Support from Coaches
15:35 Decision to Medically Retire
18:05 Taking Time for Healing and Recovery
19:26 Grief and Identity Shift
20:40 Considering Leaving NC State
22:46 Recognizing the Beauty in Others
26:02 Shifting Perspective and Gratitude
27:13 The Golden Handcuffs
28:12 Strengthening Mental Health
29:26 Acting as If
32:23 Deciding to Stay in Raleigh
35:09 The Pressure to Move
38:00 Building a Plan
42:26 Collecting Data
45:12 Following the Yes
47:45 Showing Up as Good People
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Thank you for listening! XO, Mariette

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