How many times have we not tried something because of the fear of failure? I’ve personally lost count. It has been a struggle for me to take chances, especially when it comes to recovery and life choices. On the one hand, it has kept me out of a lot of trouble. I imagine, however, I’ve missed out on some incredible opportunities because of my fear.

If you’ve been following along, anxiety gremlins are part of my story. They like to share all of the ways I’ll fail every time I begin my ascent of the mountains ahead. They like to share that there isn’t a point to trying if “I won’t make it.”

But I won’t ever know if I could have done it if I didn’t try. I could have never tried to go to college, get my masters, go on dates, get married, see a therapist, see a doctor for my functional health, said yes to projects at work… Where would I have been had I just sat back and said no? Just believed in what anxiety shared?

It’s hard to choose yourself and push through insecurities. It’s through intentional self-discovery that I’ve been able to learn a lot about Kristen. I’m creative, organized, and empathetic. I care about and see the best in people. I want others to succeed. I like things “just so” because it helps me stay well.

So, just begin.

Kristen Ellis

Kristen has worked in the mental health field since 2013, with a focus on crisis work, substance use services, and bringing a voice to lived experience. Her ambition is to change the way mental health care and recovery is seen and achieved, so to redefine what it means to defeat adversity.