Meet Kelly Kendrick

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Kelly Kendrick a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Kelly , thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?

Navigating life as a divorced mother of two has been filled with both immense challenges and significant triumphs. The early years were particularly tough, as I grappled with the emotional and logistical hurdles of single parenthood. Balancing work, household responsibilities, and the emotional well-being of my children often felt overwhelming. Yet, each obstacle presented an opportunity to grow stronger and more resourceful. I learned to manage my time meticulously, prioritize self-care, and seek out a supportive community. These experiences taught me resilience and the importance of maintaining a positive outlook, even during the most trying times.

Following my dreams has been a pivotal part of my journey towards resilience. Pursuing a career in empowerment coaching, despite the initial uncertainties, has been incredibly rewarding. It allowed me to align my professional life with my passion for helping others. This career path has provided a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment. Each milestone achieved in my career reinforced my belief in the power of perseverance and hard work. It also served as a powerful example for my children, demonstrating that it’s never too late to follow your dreams and that the pursuit of one’s passions can lead to a fulfilling and resilient life.

My spiritual and personal growth has been intertwined with my journey as a single mother and professional. Faith has been a cornerstone, providing me with strength and guidance through the toughest times. Regular prayer, meditation, and reflection have helped me stay grounded and connected to a higher purpose. Personally, I’ve grown in my ability to practice self-compassion and mindfulness, understanding that resilience is not just about enduring hardships but also about nurturing oneself. This growth has enriched my life in ways that transcend professional success, fostering a deep sense of inner peace and a more profound connection with my children. Through these experiences, I have come to appreciate the beauty of life’s journey and the strength that comes from embracing both its challenges and triumphs.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

Hello, I’m Kelly, a 40-year-old from Southern Illinois and the founder of The Soul-Centered Life, LLC.

With 15 years of experience in education, I have dedicated my career to serving as a Special Education Teacher and a Behavioral and Emotional Support Specialist. My journey into mental health awareness began during my teaching career, where I witnessed firsthand the impact of emotional and psychological well-being on students’ lives. This experience ignited my passion for expanding my calling into empowerment coaching, where I could help individuals beyond the classroom setting.

My spiritual awakening in 2018 was a turning point that set me on a path of self-discovery and self-empowerment. The healing I experienced through this journey was profound, and I realized that my purpose was to share this transformative process with others. As an empowerment coach, I guide clients through their own journeys of growth and resilience, helping them to unlock their potential and embrace their true selves. What excites me most about coaching is witnessing the incredible transformations my clients undergo, from overcoming personal challenges to achieving their deepest aspirations. I have a deep love for building community, which I have nurtured through hosting book clubs and workshops on “Navigating the 4 Types of Life Transitions,” bringing people together to share and grow.

At The Soul-Centered Life, LLC, I offer three distinct coaching programs tailored to meet various needs.

Empowerment Express is a 90-minute intensive session designed for those seeking quick, actionable strategies to achieve short-term goals.

Empowerment Essentials is a three-month trial program, consisting of three sessions, perfect for individuals looking to explore the benefits of coaching before committing to a longer-term program.

Empowerment Evolution is a six-month, 12-session intensive program, providing clients with practical and intuitive tools to achieve both short and long-term goals for sustained personal growth.

In the winter of 2025, I will be introducing a group coaching option to foster community building and soulful connections, further enhancing the supportive environment at The Soul-Centered Life. I’m excited to continue growing this community and helping more individuals on their paths to empowerment.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Reflecting on my journey, the three qualities that have been most impactful are resilience, empathy, and a commitment to continuous learning. Resilience allowed me to navigate the ups and downs of life, especially as a single mother and a professional striving to make a difference. Empathy helped me connect deeply with my clients and understand their unique struggles and aspirations. Lastly, a commitment to continuous learning kept me evolving, both personally and professionally, ensuring that I could provide the best support to those I coach.

For those early in their journey, developing resilience is key. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and don’t be afraid to seek support when needed. Building resilience is a gradual process, and every small victory contributes to your strength. To cultivate empathy, practice active listening and put yourself in others’ shoes. Genuine connections are built on understanding and compassion, which are essential in both personal and professional relationships. Finally, never stop learning. Stay curious, seek out new knowledge and experiences, and be open to feedback. Continuous learning not only enhances your skills but also keeps you adaptable in an ever-changing world.

In summary, focus on building resilience by embracing challenges, nurture empathy by connecting deeply with others, and commit to continuous learning to keep growing. These qualities have been instrumental in my journey, and I believe they can significantly impact yours as well. Remember, every step you take towards developing these skills brings you closer to achieving your goals and realizing your full potential.

Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?

The person who has been most helpful in helping me overcome challenges and develop the essential skills, qualities, and knowledge needed for success is my mother. Her unwavering faith in God and her ability to see the positive in every situation have been a constant source of inspiration for me. Growing up, she always encouraged me to trust in God’s plan and to remain hopeful, even in the face of adversity. Her strong spiritual foundation has been a guiding light in my own journey, teaching me the importance of faith and resilience.

One of the most valuable lessons my mother taught me was how to laugh at myself. She has an incredible sense of humor and the ability to find joy in the simplest moments. Whenever I faced difficult situations, she reminded me not to take life too seriously and to find the humor in the challenges. This lesson has been crucial in helping me maintain a positive outlook and approach problems with a lighter heart. Her laughter and joy have been contagious, providing me with the strength to push through tough times and to approach life with a sense of playfulness.

In addition to her faith and humor, my mother has been a pillar of support in my personal and professional life. She has always believed in my potential and encouraged me to pursue my dreams, no matter how ambitious they seemed. Her unwavering belief in me has instilled a deep sense of confidence and determination, which has been instrumental in my success. Through her guidance, love, and support, I have learned the importance of perseverance, self-belief, and the power of a positive attitude. My mother’s influence has been a cornerstone in my journey, and I am incredibly grateful for the lessons she has imparted to me.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

all pictures were taken by me, Kelly Kendrick

Suggest a Story: BoldJourney is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems,
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
Resilience
Where does your optimism come from?

Optimism is the invisible ingredient that powers so much of the incredible progress in society

Confidence
Stories of Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Learning from one another is what BoldJourney is all about. Below, we’ve shared stories and

Resilience
The Power of Persistence: Overcoming Haters and Doubters

Having hates is an inevitable part of any bold journey – everyone who has made