Words of Advice

By Linda Kelly, MSW, RSW, Editor in Chief

When I started Kelly Mental Health, I wanted to help people in a big way. I wanted to resolve the problems in our city, and the way that made the most sense was to start with individuals, because one person can change the lives of everyone around them. ​
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I was once told that the definition of hell is when the person you are meets the person you could have become. I’ve always kept that in mind because it would be a tragedy to waste this terribly short life being held back by fear, thoughts of inadequacy, or the opinions of those who also struggle with those issues. You have to answer to yourself in the end, and I choose to make decisions that will leave me with the least amount of regret.

Starting KMH is one of the best things I have ever done. In two years, we have nearly outgrown our space, and are being recognized more often in the city for the work we do with individuals and families. I have learned that opportunities are there if you’re ready and willing to bet on yourself and the fire that burns within. I’ve also learned that some opportunities will veer you off track, and you must viciously guard your time and energy.

If I had to give advice to anyone starting out, I would tell you that Google is your best friend for the how-to’s. Emotionally, the hurdles affect people differently. Knowing what to expect certainly gives you the opportunity to have a game plan in mind. But there will be setbacks, weeks when the phone doesn’t seem to ring at all, and times you go home feeling like the only people who can make this work are smarter, richer, or better than you. But then you get some rest, savour your coffee or tea, notice the sunlight when it touches your skin, and know deep down that people are built to learn and develop, and this is just another opportunity to grow. 

The best you can do is try to manage your own feelings, take care of yourself, sleep when you're tired, eat when you're hungry (the right foods), observe the law of diminishing returns, and enjoy the ride.

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