We were lucky to catch up with Krista Norris recently and have shared our conversation below.
Krista , we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?
Without a doubt leveling up takes a level of self-confidence. Before I began my career in mental health and wellness, I understood that having a healthy level of self-confidence was essential to surviving in this world. I am a Los Angeles native and have not only witnessed but endured life changing difficulties. As a result, I became determined to create my own toolbox of essentials to developing and maintaining a healthy level of positive self-esteem. One essential for building self-confidence is remembering your strengths. Especially when you feel defeated. A valuable tool that I developed that supported me in building and maintaining my self-confidence is what I call a “journal of wins.” I also identify it as my gratitude journal. This is an essential part of my daily self-care practice. Not only does this tool help me remain in a mindset of gratitude for my past and current successes but it is a daily reminder that I have what it takes to reach my dreams. Keeping a journal or log of your past or current successes and reminding yourself that you have within you whatever it takes to reach your goals are key to building healthy self-confidence.
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?
Currently, I serve in private practice as a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate where I see a variety of clients. Identifying as an eclectic therapist allows space for me to support each client’s unique needs while using a variety of modalities. I support teens, young adults, adults and couples. What brings me the most fulfillment with clients is reigniting the hope that was once lost. Helping them understand that I am only a facilitator in their own healing. I am truly honored to create a sacred space where individuals can be themselves without judgement. Some current exciting news; As a current Doctoral student, I am currently in the process of developing research to bring awareness to repressed womb trauma in African American women impacting their quality of life. Womb trauma can come in several different forms such as rape, unaddressed miscarriage, birthing complications, surgery complications related to the female womb and various female centered womb trauma. This pilot study will set the foundation for a larger study. Women will be offered various interventions to work through their experienced trauma. The research findings will not only bring awareness of a global disparity but will shape future interventions geared towards improving the quality of life for African American women. Perhaps changes in policy can include additional screenings for African American women in particular who have expressed repressed womb trauma. Lastly, outside of research and supporting clients, what also brings me joy is the stillness and balance that mindfulness and meditation bring. One of my favorite settings is the beach and experiencing the healing ions from the ocean waves. Meditation is a daily ritual for me that supports my ability to ground despite external challenges.
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?
Three qualities that are essential to develop in order to be successful in any area of your life must include self-discipline, patience and gratitude. Self-discipline may seem difficult in the beginning, however, after you develop this skill, you can begin to see how much freedom this brings for you. Short sacrifices can lead to long term success. Patience is another crucial quality that is not only beneficial to entrepreneurs but to anyone seeking to enhance their quality of life. There are several benefits to patience. Including the ability to enhance your decision-making skills. Which improves your ability to work through potential setbacks. Lastly, developing and maintaining a strong level of gratitude improves your will power. Which in turn improves your level of self-confidence. Remaining in an attitude of gratitude can reprogram your mind allowing room to shift your daily narrative to a narrative of humility, optimism and expectancy.
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?
I believe it is important to have a good balance of both. Life is a balancing act. If we focus too much on one area of our life, we can begin to neglect the areas that may require for more attention. Developing a growth mindset should be an essential piece in self-improvement. Yes, focus on your strengths and positive character traits while also tending to areas you may need or want to improve in.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
My mother and father both played crucial roles in helping me overcome life’s obstacles. They are now both deceased but their insights and wisdom are continual sources of influence in my life. Along my journey, I’ve also developed influential lessons from seasoned mentors. Their lived experiences and knowledge supported me through many life transitions. I am forever grateful for the gems acquired from everyone that supported me along my journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/krista-norris-mckinney-tx/1048242
- Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Krista_Norris?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=e3ab06cf-9d64-4be0-9c50-d3467283f870
Image Credits
Image Credits: Headshot: Spark Studios; https://www.sparkstudiosoc.com/ Beach Photos: Dr. Andrea Marr; https://www.alignbewell.com/ Heather Reeves; www.coachingwithorigin.com
