It’s ok to not be ok

I’ve lived with depression and anxiety since I can remember. Over the past several years, I’ve become much more open with that vulnerable side of me to family, friends and yes — even colleagues like you.

I feel strongly it’s time to sunset any taboos around mental health — even in our professional lives. Because it’s ok to not be ok.

I’m thankful for very visible folks — like Naomi Osaka and Simone Biles — who are putting themselves out there to de-stigmatize mental health issues to huge audiences around the globe. And I want to do my small part by championing this issue in the non profit leadership and fundraising space.

We are living and leading through very complex times. There is often no simple answer. And the passionate reasons that drive us to dedicate our professional life to a cause (or causes) can increase the pressure we put on ourselves to perform.

So if you are feeling a little (or a lot) off, it’s ok. Please take care of yourself. Engage in the activities that nourish your soul. Avoid the things that take from you.

This post isn’t about answers. It’s about keeping this conversation alive without shame.