I’m Kimberly Bell
I was a fulltime working mom with over 10 years of experience in HR at large financial institutions and law firms. I had a good career and the privilege of working with really smart, exceptional people. I had a loving family and partner, beautiful children, and amazing, supportive friends. I was blessed in so many ways and grateful for the life I had.
I was also feeling completely burned out by…a lot.
Years of working the corporate grind had taken a toll on my overall well-being, and the work/life balance so many of us seek continued to elude me. Even though I loved the work I did, I found that I constantly felt tired and unfulfilled. Striving to maintain an upward career trajectory, or always thinking about “the next step” in my career, was no longer as exciting a prospect as it used to be – nor did it seem that important anymore. And yet, this was the only way I knew – or had ever considered – how to work. Also, trying to balance working fulltime with all my Mom Duties had made me exhausted and anxious all the time. I never felt I was doing anything really well anymore. Moreover, I had lost track of what it was I really wanted in my life.
On top of everything, in 2022 my youngest child was diagnosed with a rare genetic illness. As the number and frequency of doctor’s appointments increased, so did my fear and anxiety. I anticipated needing more days off from work to care for her, but I was afraid to change my work situation or ask for greater flexibility because I thought it was too risky. I was terrified of losing what I already had, like my good health insurance. The list of excuses for why I shouldn’t take risks or make any significant changes in my life was growing – even while deep inside, I knew something had to change. I could no longer see beyond the walls of my own circumstances. I felt stuck.
Then, at the start of 2024, my baby girl got really sick. We pulled her out of daycare, and I had to take a leave of absence from work to care for her. Those few months at home were some of the scariest and most stressful of my life.
They also turned out to be some of the most transformative.
With the help of a coach, I did some serious self-reflective work
I reconnected with what was truly important to me in my life and what my priorities were.
I was reminded that while challenging circumstances in your life can make things feel hopeless at times, you still have the power to make choices, however big or small, that have the potential to change your situation.
I changed my mindset from one that was limiting me and demanding that I “stick with what I know”/”play it safe,” to one that was curious and more expansive, which for the first time gave me confidence to explore a different direction for my career that was more aligned with my priorities, values, and purpose.
Having gone through this experience has made me passionate about helping others who feel overwhelmed, burned out, or “stuck” and supporting them as they create the balance they want in their lives. Navigating these challenges, especially when coupled with life transitions, can be uncomfortable, but having someone dedicated to listening to you, being there with you, asking you tough questions, and being your cheerleader as you work through those difficult moments is so worth it! This is where coaching can help. This is where I can help.
More About Me
Degrees & Certifications:
- Wellesley College, B.A. Psychology
- Co-Active Training Institute, Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC)
In Progress
Things That Lift Me Up
The change of seasons. Sharing laughs with my husband and daughters. Solo walks. People being kind to each other. Trying something new.
Other Me Facts
I’m an introvert.
I have two kids, two cats, and one dog.
I’m the proud mom of a neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ child – and I’m still learning how to be and do better for them.
I lived in NYC almost all my life until moving to the Denver suburbs at the end of 2022.
I just got my driver’s license in 2024!
I really don’t like driving.
I won a grappling match at age 38 within a few months of starting classes. It remains, to date, my most random accomplishment.
I know that being human is a messy business. None of us are perfect. I’m ok with that.
