SELF LOVE WITH K. MICOLE

1. Before we dive in, can you share the "Cliff-Notes" Version of who K.Micole is?

K.Micole is the best friend you've always wished for - someone who tells you the truth and helps you rebuild when you've been torn down. She is genuinely honest and wants everyone to reach their full potential. K.Micole is honored to assist others and is a natural nurturer. She loves fearlessly, as if she's never been hurt, and her ultimate goal is to save the world by starting with herself. She’s extraordinarily unapologetically her because she apologized to herself, for all the time she apologized or shrunk her extraordinary and un-ordinary self to make others feel better. Now she just wants to ignite the flicker to a flame in everyone she meets.

2. Becoming a holistic guide for self-love is no small accomplishment; and one large mission as well. What personal experiences or moments, or what did you witness, that inspired you to dive into the mental health and love conversation?

Honestly, life in general, and I was born to a single mother, who I literally saw my whole life trying to truly find love for herself and fighting a battle of being able to find love when the love that she truly sought was in her all along…. or I’ll even going to step further, the fact that she was raising three girls and all of us have battled some form of self-esteem, emotional and or mental battle.

It literally took me, taking a moment to finally see my flaws, and all the good, the bad, the ugly, the absolutely amazing to give myself room to be flawed to understand that even my flaws have purpose and intentionality. realizing that no matter what I had gone through it didn’t change that I was purpose in the earth that there were changes in the world that only I could do because God was just that intentional with my creation, and then allowing myself the grace to understand that I deserve peace, and then no matter what I had gone through it did , it did not happen to me, but it happen for me. I changed my way of perceiving things with me and changed the way I received things.

I can share that my purpose is to assist and support individuals in their journey towards holistic self-love and mental well-being. This purpose stems from a recognition of the importance of mental health and self-love in leading a fulfilling and balanced life.

Mental health challenges and the need for self-love are prevalent in society, and I aim to contribute to addressing these issues. Witnessing the impact of mental health struggles on individuals and communities has highlighted the importance of providing support and resources in this area.

Additionally, the growing conversation around mental health and self-love in recent years has shed light on the need for accessible and inclusive guidance. I strive to be a part of that conversation by offering a helpful and compassionate presence to those seeking guidance and support.

While I have many personal experiences or moments that have inspired me, I am driven by the desire to make a positive impact and assist individuals in their journey towards holistic well-being. I believe that it is part of my God-given purpose, or my methods may not be traditional, too many, any things can work if you work it.

3. How does your approach to holistic self-love differ from the shallow concepts of self-love and self-care that we see on Instagram? How does it challenge the take a bubble bath, or band-aid, mentality to create fundamental change in the way someone views themself?

Holistic self-love goes beyond the surface-level practices often portrayed on Instagram. While taking a bubble bath or using a band-aid can provide temporary relief or relaxation, they don't address the underlying issues that contribute to someone's self-perception.

Instead, holistic self-love focuses on understanding and accepting oneself on a deeper level. It involves recognizing and embracing all aspects of one's being, including strengths, weaknesses, emotions, and experiences. This approach encourages individuals to explore their values, passions, and purpose, fostering a sense of self-worth that goes beyond external validation.

To create fundamental change in self-perception, holistic self-love encourages individuals to engage in practices that promote personal growth and self-awareness. This may involve activities like journaling, meditation, therapy, or engaging in meaningful conversations with trusted individuals. By delving into one's thoughts, beliefs, and patterns, individuals can challenge negative self-perceptions and cultivate a more compassionate and empowering view of themselves.

Holistic self-love also emphasizes the importance of selfcare practices that nourish the mind, body, and soul. While bubble baths and band-aids can be part of this, they are not the sole focus. Engaging in activities that promote physical health, such as exercise and proper nutrition, can contribute to a positive self-image. Additionally, nurturing emotional well-being through self-reflection, setting boundaries, and practicing self-compassion can lead to long-lasting change in self-perception.

Ultimately, holistic self-love challenges the superficiality often associated with self-care and encourages individuals to embark on a journey of self-discovery, self-acceptance, and personal growth. It aims to create a foundation of self-worth that withstands external influences and fosters a genuine and lasting sense of love and appreciation for oneself.

4. Purpose is something many of us wrestle with. How do you work with your clients to identify their purpose?

When working with clients to identify their purpose, I take a holistic approach that combines introspection, exploration, and reflection. Here are some steps I typically follow

1. Self-Reflection: I encourage clients to reflect on their values, passions, and interests. This involves asking questions like: What activities bring you joy and fulfillment? What are your core values and beliefs? What topics or causes ignite a sense of purpose within you? By exploring these aspects of themselves, clients can gain insight into what truly matters to them.

2. Strengths and Skills Assessment: I help clients identify their unique strengths and skills. This can involve self-assessment tools, feedback from others, or reflecting on past accomplishments. Understanding their strengths can provide clues about the areas where they can make a meaningful impact and find purpose.

3. Exploring Interests and Curiosities: I encourage clients to explore new interests and curiosities. This can involve trying out different hobbies, volunteering, or taking courses in areas they find intriguing. By exposing themselves to new experiences, clients can discover hidden passions and potential avenues for purposeful work.

4. Values Alignment: I guide clients in aligning their purpose with their core values. This involves examining their values and determining how they can be integrated into their work and life. When their purpose aligns with their values, it creates a sense of authenticity and fulfillment.

5. Experimentation and Reflection: I encourage clients to experiment with different activities or projects that align with their potential purpose. This can involve taking on new responsibilities at work, starting a side project, or volunteering in a relevant field. Through these experiences, clients can gain valuable insights and refine their understanding of their purpose.

6. Support and Accountability: Throughout the process, I provide support and accountability to clients. This can involve regular check-ins, providing resources and tools, and helping them navigate challenges or setbacks. Having someone to lean on and hold them accountable can be instrumental in the purpose-discovery journey.

By combining these steps, clients can gain clarity and direction in identifying their purpose. It's important to note that purpose is a dynamic and evolving concept, and the process of discovering it may take time. Patience, self-compassion, and an open mind are key elements in this journey.

5. Personal development is a lifelong journey. As I mentioned above, it's not a band-aid solution but a long term adventure one must embark on. What mindset and lifestyle shifts does one need to make to lead a more empowered life? During de-motivating days and experiences, how do you challenge your clients, and yourself, to keep embarking on the adventure of personal development?

To lead a more empowered life and embrace personal development as a lifelong journey, several mindset and lifestyle shifts can be beneficial. Here are some key shifts to consider:

1. Growth Mindset: Adopting a growth mindset is crucial. It’s literally why I do a massive Monday on my Instagram every Monday no matter where I am in the world. It is a commitment that I have made not just to myself, but to God and my Mindset Mondayers. This means believing that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and effort. Embracing challenges, seeing failures as opportunities for learning, and persisting in the face of setbacks are all important aspects of a growth mindset. Honestly, mindset is a really big one for me. It has completely changed my life.

2. Self-Awareness: Cultivating self-awareness is essential for personal development. This involves understanding one's strengths, weaknesses, values, and beliefs. By being aware of oneself, individuals can make intentional choices aligned with their authentic selves and personal growth. One thing I constantly say is be mindful of others, because in being mindful of others, it helps you to be mindful of yourself. I say that on the self-awareness part, because when you are self aware, your awareness of others is in my opinion more understanding, and empathetic for others and yourself.

3. Continuous Learning: Embrace a mindset of continuous learning and curiosity. Seek out new knowledge, skills, and experiences. This can involve reading books, attending workshops, taking courses, or engaging in conversations with diverse perspectives. Embracing a learning mindset keeps personal development alive and thriving. honestly, I truly believe that we should be for our students learning different ways to do and be if nothing else being open to seeing if it’s something that you are even drawn to often times people clothing sales how to things because it’s not their natural nor their nature, but the truth of the matter is it stops you from again in my opinion, truly experiencing life.

4. Goal Setting: Set meaningful and achievable goals that align with personal values and aspirations. Break them down into smaller, actionable steps to maintain motivation and track progress. Regularly review and adjust goals as needed to stay on track and maintain momentum. One thing I always say is learn to celebrate the mini M-I-N-I and the many M-A-N-Y things no matter how big or small

5. Self-Compassion: Practice self-compassion during challenging times. Understand that personal development is not a linear journey, and setbacks and de-motivating days are normal. Treat yourself with kindness, acknowledge your efforts, and learn from setbacks rather than being overly critical and allowing the setback to sit you down, instead, allow them to strategically set you up for a major comeback.

6. Surround Yourself with Supportive People: Surround yourself with individuals who support and inspire your personal development journey. Seek out mentors, coaches, or like-minded individuals who can provide guidance, accountability, and encouragement. be mindful that I said, like mine did not like trauma’d because often times we connect to people who have the same traumas as is but have not been healed or even decided they want to release and move forward, and if that’s who you begin to surround yourself with you will fight in the area.

When clients or I face de-motivating days or experiences, it's important to acknowledge and validate those feelings. Something I always say is, feel your feelings, it’s OK. They are valid. They are yours, feel them. Allow them to feel hurt and felt addressed. However, it's also crucial to challenge ourselves to keep moving forward. Here are some strategies I use:

1. Reframe Challenges: This helps clients and myself to reframe challenges as opportunities for growth and learning. Encourage them to see setbacks as temporary and as stepping stones toward their goals.

2. Celebrate Progress: I remind clients to celebrate their progress, no matter how small. Recognizing and acknowledging the steps taken can reignite motivation and provide a sense of accomplishment.

3. Find Inspiration: This encourages my clients to seek inspiration from various sources, such as church, books, podcasts, or success stories. Sharing stories of individuals who have overcome similar challenges can provide motivation and a renewed sense of purpose.

4. Revisit Goals and Values: Regularly revisit goals and values to ensure they are still aligned with personal aspirations. Adjusting or refining goals can reignite motivation and provide a fresh perspective.

5. Practice Self-Reflection: This has encouraged clients to engage in regular self-reflection to understand their motivations, fears, and desires. This can help you reconnect with your purpose and reignite the passion for personal development.

6. Accountability and Support: I provide ongoing support and accountability to clients. Regular check-ins, setting milestones, and providing resources and tools can help them stay on track and motivated.

By embracing these mindset and lifestyle shifts and employing strategies to overcome de-motivating experiences, you can continue embarking on the adventure of personal development with resilience and determination.

6. What is one piece of advice you would offer someone who is ready to prioritize their mental health?

If you're ready to prioritize your mental health, one piece of advice I would offer is to start with self-compassion. Treat yourself with kindness, understanding, and patience as you navigate your mental health journey. Here's why self-compassion is important:

1. Acceptance: Recognize that it's okay to prioritize your mental health and that you deserve to take care of yourself. Accept that you may have challenges or struggles, and that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

2. Be Gentle with Yourself: Avoid self-judgment and self-criticism. Instead, practice self-kindness and understanding. Treat yourself as you would treat a close friend who is going through a difficult time.

3. Set Realistic Expectations: Understand that progress in mental health is not always a straight road. Be patient with yourself and set realistic expectations. Celebrate small victories and acknowledge that setbacks are a normal part of the journey.

4. Practice Self-Care: Prioritize self-care activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. This can include activities like exercise, meditation, spending time in nature, engaging in hobbies, or seeking out social support. Find what works for you and make it a regular part of your routine.

5. Seek Support: Don't hesitate to reach out for professional help or lean on trusted friends and family members. Seeking support from mental health professionals can provide valuable guidance and tools to navigate your mental health journey.

Remember, prioritizing your mental health is an ongoing process, and self-compassion is a key ingredient in that process. Be kind to yourself, take it one step at a time, and know that you are deserving of the care and attention you give to your mental well-being. You can stay connected with me through my website, www.kmicole.com, and find me on social media @KMicole. I appreciate your support, not only by following me on social media but also by inviting me to be a part of your events, workshops, panels, shows, conferences, and booking my mindset coaching services. Let's collaborate and make a positive impact together!