Meet Karla Michelle Alvarado

We recently connected with Karla Michelle Alvarado and have shared our conversation below.

Karla Michelle, 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?
I’ve invested heavily in myself to build resilience. I started by attending resiliency classes to understand the fundamentals. Then, I became a resiliency instructor to help others develop these skills. Eventually, I earned my certification as a master resiliency trainer, which has equipped me with advanced techniques and insights to face challenges effectively. This journey has not only strengthened my own resilience but also empowered me to support others in their resilience-building journey.

My determination speaks volumes about the people who have shaped me and the profound impact of my faith as a Pagan Witch. It is deeply rooted in the unwavering love and wisdom of my mother, who has been my rock, infusing me with a resilience that knows no limits, and in my friends, who have stood by me through thick and thin. Every experience, whether triumphant or challenging, has etched into me an unyielding strength, enriched by the teachings of my faith, guiding me through life’s toughest moments.

And then there’s my daughters, my greatest source of inspiration, igniting a fire within me to conquer any obstacle!

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, three qualities that were most impactful in my journey are resilience, adaptability, and a passion for continuous learning.

1. Resilience: Life throws many challenges our way, and resilience helps us bounce back stronger each time. To develop resilience, focus on maintaining a positive outlook, practicing self-care, and seeking support from mentors and peers. Building a strong support network is crucial.

2. Adaptability: My frequent moves during childhood taught me the importance of being adaptable. Embrace change and view it as an opportunity for growth. Stay open-minded and be willing to step out of your comfort zone. Developing a flexible mindset will help you navigate uncertainties more effectively.

3. Continuous Learning: Pursuing a degree in psychology and becoming a master resiliency trainer are examples of my commitment to learning. Always seek opportunities to expand your knowledge and skills. Whether through formal education, workshops, or self-study, continuous learning keeps you relevant and prepared for future challenges.

For those early in their journey, my advice is to cultivate these qualities by setting goals, staying curious, and remaining open to new experiences. Surround yourself with supportive individuals who encourage your growth, and never shy away from opportunities that push you to learn and adapt.

What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
When I feel overwhelmed, I start by listing all the tasks at hand and prioritizing them based on urgency and importance. Breaking down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps helps make the workload seem less daunting. I take a few minutes to practice mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or meditation to significantly reduce feelings of overwhelm. These techniques help calm my mind and bring clarity. I also reach out to my support network, whether it’s family, friends, or colleagues, sharing my feelings and seeking advice for new perspectives and emotional relief. Delegating tasks, when possible, helps distribute the workload. It’s essential to step away from stressors occasionally, so I schedule short breaks, engage in activities I enjoy, and practice self-care routines like exercise, reading, or spending time in nature. Multitasking can increase stress and reduce efficiency, so I focus on completing one task at a time to stay present and accomplish more effectively.

For those who are feeling overwhelmed, here is some advice: Set realistic goals to avoid overloading yourself and be realistic about what you can handle. Learn to say no; it’s okay to decline additional responsibilities when you’re already overwhelmed to protect your mental and emotional well-being. Stay organized by keeping a planner or using digital tools to track tasks and deadlines (my google calendar is my best friend!). If feelings of overwhelm persist, consider seeking help from a therapist or counselor for valuable coping strategies and emotional support. Remember, it’s important to be kind to yourself and recognize that feeling overwhelmed is a natural part of life.

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Image Credits
Image Credit to Kate Spitz Photography

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