How to Become Your Own Biggest Fan: An Interview with Actress KJ Smith

The Verywell Mind Podcast, hosted by Amy Morin, LCSW, invites authors, experts, entrepreneurs, athletes, musicians, and other inspirational individuals to delve into strategies that empower them to thrive in life. Join us as we explore their unique insights on thinking, feeling, and achieving their best.

Meet KJ Smith:

KJ Smith is an accomplished actress who made a bold move from her post-college life to pursue her acting dreams in Los Angeles. With consistent effort and dedication, she has secured appearances in various shows, gradually ascending to more prominent roles.

Currently, KJ captivates audiences in the BET comedy-drama series "Sistas." Additionally, she's set to grace the upcoming season of Starz' Power Book III: Raising Kainan, further showcasing her versatility and talent.

KJ's mental health advocacy sets her apart. She openly embraces the importance of therapy and self-care, breaking down stigmas surrounding mental well-being.

The Strength of KJ Smith:

KJ has encountered ups and downs in her career, leading her to realize the significance of becoming her own biggest fan. Navigating her rise to fame has imparted valuable lessons about boundaries, self-awareness, and authenticity.

Her candor about her mental health struggles and proactive steps towards staying mentally strong inspire many.

What You'll Hear on the Show:

• KJ's journey to embracing and acknowledging her emotions
• Navigating situations where others struggle with her emotional expressions
• Strategies for becoming your own biggest fan
• Filling your mind with constructive, positive content
• Environment modifications that promote mental health
• Establishing clear boundaries with others
• Overcoming bouts of depression
• Harnessing music to regulate mood
• Utilizing social media in a wholesome manner
• Extending grace to others, even when they fall short
• Tuning out external noise while making crucial decisions

Mental Health and Strength Insights:

KJ shed light on her experiences with depressive episodes. Such periods can be prevalent, ranging from severe to mild. While some individuals recover without professional intervention, others may require treatments like medication or therapy.

Depressive episodes are not signs of weakness but rather may be influenced by brain chemistry or environmental factors. Although building mental strength can potentially prevent some episodes, it may not eliminate them entirely. Feeling depressed does not diminish one's strength; it can happen to anyone.

Quotes From KJ:

• "When you go through something, I give you the grace that you need."
• "I had to start getting addicted to the good dopamine rush, not the bad dopamine rush."
• "When I was in school, you only had three people telling you what's cool and what to do and what to wear and, and how to be and what not to do. Now people have 7 billion people influencing their decisions, influencing their ears and their brain and their thoughts."
• "Meditation is essential because you have to silence your thoughts to really hear what's true."

About the Podcast:

The Verywell Mind Podcast is accessible across various streaming platforms. If you enjoy the content, leaving a review on Apple Podcasts is greatly appreciated. Reviews and ratings play a crucial role in introducing the podcast to new listeners, encouraging them to prioritize their mental health as well.

Links and Resources:

• Follow KJ on Instagram: @KJSmithOfficial
• Follow KJ Smith on Twitter: @kjsmithofficial

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Extended Summary:

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