April 15, 2024

Finding Joy In New Identities With Kelsey O'Connor

55 minutes

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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By Mariette Frey / Rogue Media Network