We were lucky to catch up with Kyrus Keenan Westcott recently and have shared our conversation below.
Kyrus, thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts with us today. We’re excited to dive into your story and your work, but first let’s start with a broader topic that might be stopping many of our readers from pursuing their dreams – haters, nay-sayers, etc. How have you managed to persist despite haters and nay-sayers that inevitably follow folks who are doing something unique, special or off the beaten path?
Persisting in the face of negativity, especially as someone sharing their mental health journey, is a challenge, but I’ve found a few key strategies that help me stay focused and positive.
Firstly, I always remind myself of the ‘why’ behind what I do. I started “The Vibe With Ky” to share my story and connect with others who might feel isolated in their mental health struggles. Every message from a Viber who’s found comfort or insight in my content reinforces my purpose. It’s not just about me; it’s about creating a community where we can all grow together.
I also prioritize self-care and mindfulness. Living with ADHD, I’ve learned the importance of structured routines, regular exercise, and mindfulness practices. These aren’t just buzzwords; they’re essential tools that keep me grounded and focused. When I’m taking care of myself, I’m better equipped to handle criticism and keep it from affecting me deeply.
Lastly, I embrace vulnerability. Being open about my struggles, including dealing with negativity, helps me connect authentically with my audience. I’m not just a content creator; I’m a fellow traveler on this mental health journey. Sharing the ups and downs makes the journey more relatable and less lonely.
In the end, it’s about focusing on the positive impact and not letting the haters derail the mission. We’re all Vibers here, and together, we’re stronger.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
At “The Vibe With Ky,” I create content for adult introverts with ADHD, blending humor and honesty to make mental health discussions more accessible. What excites me the most is the community we’ve built. It’s a safe space where sharing struggles and victories feels natural and empowering. Diagnosed with severe ADHD in 2022, I use my story to assure others they’re not alone. I’m not a mental health professional, but I strive to guide people towards understanding and acceptance. My approach avoids toxic positivity, focusing instead on realistic optimism. I’m here to empower, motivate, and remind everyone that their mental health journey matters.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my journey, three key elements stand out: empathy, adaptability, and storytelling.
Empathy has been crucial. It’s about understanding and connecting with others’ experiences. For those starting out, actively listen to others’ stories. This helps cultivate a deeper understanding and connection with your audience.
Adaptability has also been vital. In the ever-changing landscape of social media and mental health discourse, being flexible and open to learning new things has kept “The Vibe With Ky” relevant and relatable. For newcomers, embrace change and be willing to evolve your approach as you grow.
Finally, storytelling. Sharing my journey in an authentic, engaging way has made a significant impact. It’s not just about facts; it’s about making connections through shared experiences. I advise others to practice storytelling. Be honest, be vulnerable, and use your unique voice.
For anyone early in their journey, nurture these qualities. They’re not just skills; they’re pathways to genuine connections and impactful content.
What would you advise – going all in on your strengths or investing on areas where you aren’t as strong to be more well-rounded?
In my experience, focusing on your strengths while being mindful of areas for improvement offers the best balance. Playing to your strengths allows you to create content that is genuinely impactful and resonates deeply with your audience. For instance, my strength lies in storytelling and empathetic communication, which has been instrumental in connecting with my audience on a personal level.
However, being aware of and working on weaker areas is also important. When I started “The Vibe With Ky,” I wasn’t as savvy with the technical aspects of social media. Recognizing this, I took the time to learn and improve, which significantly enhanced the reach and quality of my content. This didn’t mean becoming an expert overnight, but rather gradually building competence.
So, my advice is to lean into your strengths because they’re your unique selling point. But don’t ignore your weaknesses; a little effort in those areas can complement your strengths and lead to overall growth and effectiveness.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://thevibewithky.com/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/thevibewithky
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thevibewithky/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyruskeenanwestcott/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/thevibewithky
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/thevibewithky?sub_confirmation=1

