We had the good fortune of connecting with Kestlyn Kingston and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kestlyn, what inspires you?
People.

I am a HUGE advocate for mental health. I have experienced and seen first hand the strength it takes to get up everyday and live when you feel like its the last thing you want to do. I get inspired by strength, resilience, and courage. I get inspired by people who fight and the ones that don’t. The people that are okay with not being okay. My inspiration comes from the feelings and thoughts that we have as we go through this thing called life.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
This book that I wrote was one of the most nerve wrecking things I’ve ever done. It started as just a way for me to express myself. A way for me to get my thoughts out of my head. It was a me thing. Then I thought about how many people would be able to relate. That if just one person felt seen, heard, loved, understood or any emotion at all, I had done my job. The writing and editing wasn’t easy but it doesn’t compare to hitting that publish button. I really had to trust God with this one. There was so much self doubt and I really struggled with if it was something I should do. But I had to put those aside and just do it. Even if it doesn’t sell much, I still did this amazing thing that I can be proud of. I learned to trust my gut and to have more faith in myself. And, I still have faith that this will reach many people and help many people.

I want people to know that I am not finished. I want people to know that my passion for helping people is what is driving me. There is so much I have on my to-do list and with God, I will accomplish them all.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First, I would have to thank God. Without him there is no me. Without him, I wouldn’t have this amazing group of people in my corner. There are very few people that I consider a friend and I want to thank them for pushing me. It is much appreciated and doesn’t go unnoticed. To the ones that actually purchased my book, shared it on social media or told someone else about it, Thank you.

I want to shout out my siblings and cousins! As the oldest(on my mothers side), I feel a great deal of responsibility, I hoped that by doing this, it would inspire them and also comfort them. I love you guys.

Instagram: Bel__fiore_

Other: Amazon Link : https://www.amazon.com/dp/B096TN9QD2/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_api_i_8TJ625TF21SGQ6MWSDAG

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