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Blog  /  June 15, 2020

I’m Proud I Didn’t Graduate College 

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The other night, while eating dinner, Blake and I opened the book, “365 Connecting Questions for Couples” by Marriage365. It provides daily questions and prompt conversations that are difficult, funny, and everything in between. This night in particular, the “connecting question” was one that stuck with me for a few days. It read: What financial decision are you most proud of?

Right off the bat, my mind went blank. “What financial decision am I most proud of?” I have no idea. The decision to start my own business? Our decision to live below our means? I don’t know. Then, I realized my true answer- a conclusion I wouldn’t have come to 5 years before, or possibly, even last year- an answer that actually wraps up all my possible answers into one. What was my proudest financial decision?

Not going to college. 

Crazy, right?

After talking through it with Blake a little more, he encouraged me to share my college story (or lack of one), here, on the blog. Yours truly gave immediate push back. But, Blake went on to explain that it could be a unique opportunity to resonate with my readers who’s stories are similar to mine. In our world and culture, today, college is just something you do. No questions asked. While, not attending college is often frowned upon. So, if I have the opportunity to shed a little light and encouragement on something that can easily bring shame and guilt, sign me up. After all, that’s what this platform is for! 

My College Story (Or Lack of One)

When I decided to not attend the four year university of my dreams, I felt anything-but-proud. In fact, I felt guilty, embarrassed, and disappointed that I chose to not take the same path as all my friends. And, that I turned away from my pursuit of a college degree. Honestly, I wrestled with my decision for years. Admittedly, I was ashamed that I never gotten my degree. Even today, there are times embarrassment and shame fill my mind.

Before moving on, I want to make an important note that I almost didn’t think to include: guilt and shame are from the enemy, not from God. And, as I write this, I’m continuously learning to make a conscious decision to let go of lies from the enemy (like shame, guilt, and so many more).

As twenty-something year old woman, there’s a recurring question that everyone and their mother asks you, especially here in the south. That FAQ? “Where did you go to school?” And, just to clear up any confusion, they don’t mean high school. Every time I hear this question, I cringe. When I first moved to Texas, I would reluctantly answer by explaining that I attended a community college in California, then started working full time once I moved states. While this answer was true, it isn’t completely honest. Here’s the full truth:

Soon after high school graduation, I gave up my dreams of attending a four-year university, living in the dorms, and pledging to be in a sorority. Without getting into the nitty gritty of it all, I had a simple decision to make: A) Attend the college of my dream, work my way through, and graduate with piles of debt. Or B) Settle for community college classes, work part-time, and live debt-free.

Despite the deepest desire of my heart, I knew I didn’t want to be buried in debt for the rest of my life. So, my decision was made.

Please hear me when I say: there is nothing wrong with going to college or being willing to take on debt to do so. In fact, if that’s your story, I applaud and admire you for it. Just know, that wasn’t my story.

Why I’m Glad I Didn’t Graduate College 

At this point, you’re probably wondering where I’m going with this. So, I didn’t graduate from college. How is that something to be happy, or even proud, about? As I previously mentioned, this reality isn’t something I’ve been proud of in the past. But, looking back on the last (almost) ten years since graduating high school, I can clearly see God’s hand in it all: deciding to attend to community school, working 2-3 jobs at a time, graduating from Cosmetology school, moving across state, marrying Blake, the list goes on. 

Sitting where I am today, not only am I happy with my decision, I’m so grateful for the path God led me down instead. Here’s why:

1. A Faith of My Own

At the top of the list is my relationship with Jesus. In the years following high school, I undoubtedly discovered my faith as my own. Unlike the years prior, despite attending church intermittently and calling myself a “Christian,” I never really experienced an honest, true, and personal relationship with Jesus. If I had pursued my college dreams, who knows where my relationship with Jesus would be today. I’m fairly confident it wouldn’t be what is today, and honestly, there’s a decent chance it could be non-existent. For this reason alone, I will be forever grateful that God steered me in a different direction. 

After this time of exponential growth in my faith and relationship with Jesus, I met my husband, Blake. I firmly believe I wouldn’t have met Blake, if I chased after my college dreams, nor would I be the Godly wife that I am today (or try to be). I thank God every day for my sweet husband and our life together.

2. Financial Freedom

This one is pretty self-explanatory. As I’ve already touched on, I’m thankful and proud to be financially free. While there are days I mourn the loss of a typical college experience, I’m grateful to be free of debt. 

3. Opportunity to Pursue my Dream Job

While I’m grateful for my relationship with Jesus and financial freedom, I’m proud that my lack of a degree hasn’t stopped me from recognizing, pursuing, and achieving my dream job. 

Even without a 4-year college experience and education, I gained experience and education throughout my “college years.” I graduated from Cosmetology school while waiting tables. I worked in multiple medical and dental offices in multiple states (okay, two). I became a Certified Personal Trainer and worked in the gym setting for several years. And, just last year, I graduated as a Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner from the NTA. I guess you could say I’m a “Jack of all trades.” Lol. And, sitting where I am today, I’m I confident that I’m right where God wants me.

Since graduating as a FNTP in November 2019, not only have I started working one-on-one with nutritional therapy clients, but I’ve also started an unrelated business that I never could have imagined. The funny thing is: it’s my dream job in-disguise. While I was studying to be a FNTP, I took a leap of faith and ventured out into business on my own- I learned to do for others what I was already doing for myself: managing a blog and social media. This part-time, temporary gig, quickly turned into a full-fledged business since graduating as an FNTP. Now, I’m working from home (#goals), running my own schedule, and actually enjoying my work. Of course, it’s not all daisies and roses. As any entrepreneur will tell you, running a business can be challenging, stressful, and very overwhelming at times. 

I wanted to share my story in the chance you’ve experienced a reality similar to mine. Maybe you’ve never stepped foot on a college campus. Maybe you dropped out without earning a degree. Maybe you’ve changed jobs too many times to count. Regardless, I’m willing to bet you’ve felt inadequate, not smart enough, or unskilled. 

I say all that to say this: if you didn’t attend college or graduate with a degree, your dreams are still possible and achievable. You are not inadequate, under-educated, or unworthy. You can do it. And, while running your own business might not be your dream, what is your dream?

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Kelsey, FNTP, CC
Are you a Nutrition Professional who feels overwhe Are you a Nutrition Professional who feels overwhelmed and burdened by running a small business?! 

As a FNTP, who previously ran my own nutritional therapy practice, I know what it’s like to wear many hats. And let’s face it, small business owners can’t do it ALL. 

I‘ve personally experienced the overwhelm that comes with running your own business.

That’s when I decided to change directions and pursue content creation full time. Because I immediately saw the need for content creation in the nutrition sphere. Why?

Because as a nutrition professional, you want to share content that is accurate and original. Who’s better qualified to help you create content than a trained nutrition professional??

See where I’m going here? 🙃

I love combining my two passions: content creation and nutrition. Better yet, I love using these skill sets to better your business!

#nutritionaltherapy
#nutritionaltherapypractitioner
#nourishment
#nourishedoykelseynicole #foodblogging
#functionalhealth #bioindividuality
#holisticnutritionist #foodisfuel #foodismedicine
#hormonehealth #guthealth
#contentcreation #nutritioncontent
#nutritioncontentcreator #contentcreator
As a trained Functional Nutritional Therapy Practi As a trained Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, I have a unique advantage in my work as a Content Creator. 

My #1 goal is to create original, niche-focused, attention-grabbing digital content for my fellow nutrition professionals. 

My skill set includes creating content for the following:
• Social media platforms 
• Blogs
• Email campaigns
• And more!

Do you want more information about how I work 1:1 with nutrition professionals and business wonders? Send me a DM!

#nutritionaltherapy
#nutritionaltherapypractitioner 
#nourishment
#nourishedoykelseynicole #foodblogging 
#functionalhealth #bioindividuality
#holisticnutritionist #foodisfuel #foodismedicine
#hormonehealth #guthealth 
#contentcreation #nutritioncontent #nutritioncontentcreator #contentcreator
Hi, it’s me. I’m still here! 👋🏼 I’ve Hi, it’s me. I’m still here! 👋🏼 

I’ve taken an unintentional (yet, very long) hiatus from this social media account and my blog. But, I’m back for a good while (I think 😅). Here’s what’s been going on lately..

In case you didn’t know, I started my own  business as a Content Creator in 2018, while I was in school at the Nutritional Therapy Association. As a trained FNTP, my niche is specifically holistic health and nutrition. It’s a combination of my two expertise: nutrition + content creation!

As a FNTP with a strong passion for real food + balanced nutrition, I’ve always kept this account as an educational resource for you. And as a fun creative outlet for me, as well!

But, I’m here to say, it’s time for a new direction. As my content creation business continues to grow and as I become more invested as a Content Creator, it only feels right to bring a little bit of my profession to this space! 

So while I still plan to share nutritional tidbits and encouragement, I also want to use this platform as a resource for my content creation business.

Sound good?

If you’re a fellow FNTP or nutrition professional, feel free to reach out for content creation support! 

And, if you’re here for nutritional education, thank you for being here and participating in this awesome community!! 💛

#nutritonaltherapypractitioner #fntp #ntp #functionalnutritionaltherapypractitioner #contentcreator #contentcreation #contentmarketing #contentmarketer #nutritioncontent #nutritionresources
STOP SKIPPING BREAKFAST & DRINKING BLACK COFFEE ON STOP SKIPPING BREAKFAST & DRINKING BLACK COFFEE ON AN EMPTY STOMACH 🛑

*said with grace and love*

Seriously, I spent years sipping on black coffee before eating breakfast. But, not anymore. 

Here’s what happens when you skip breakfast and drink black coffee every morning:
👉🏼 The caffeine (AKA stimulant) spikes your blood sugar levels.
👉🏼 Your body moves into fight-or-flight mode, increasing stress hormones.
👉🏼 A couple hours later, the cravings and yawns kick in, so you binge on sugar and *more* coffee.

And in case you’re thinking, “I seem to feel just fine after drinking black coffee and skipping breakfast,” there’s a good chance your body is living on stress hormones and relies on the caffeine to keep your body functioning. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news 😬

Soooo, what should you do instead for a healthy metabolism & happy hormones?

Eat a balanced breakfast with protein, carbs, and fat, FIRST. Ideally, within an hour of waking up. Then, enjoy a cup of fresh coffee (preferably with high quality cream or milk) ☕️ 

TBH, there’s nothing better than a hot cup of coffee with frothy, raw milk 🤩 what’s your coffee order?

And, yes, my shirt says “you’re the pumpkin to my spice” because ‘tis the season 🎃 *from @hannahmcmorrison 

http://www.nourishedbykelseynicole.com/
#holistichealing #holisticnutrition #nutritionaltherapy #nutritionaltherapypractitioner #healthyrecipes #paleorecipes #nourishment #nourishedbykelseynicole #foodblogging #paleoblog #functionalhealth #bioindividuality #holisticnutritionist #foodisfuel #foodismedicine #hormonehealth #guthealth #blackcoffee #coffeeorder #balancedbreakfast #healthybreakfast
When you’re trying to master the reel game, but When you’re trying to master the reel game, but have a constant shadow 🐾

Good thing he’s the cutest!

http://www.nourishedbykelseynicole.com/
#holistichealing #holisticnutrition #nutritionaltherapy #nutritionaltherapypractitioner #healthyrecipes #paleorecipes #nourishment #nourishedbykelseynicole #foodblogging #paleoblog #functionalhealth #bioindividuality #holisticnutritionist #foodisfuel #foodismedicine #hormonehealth #guthealth #rhodesianridgeback #rhodie
I eat carbs at every meal! 🍎🥖🥔🫓🥛🍫

Here’s why…

Our bodies NEED carbohydrates for: 
• Physical energy
• Brain power
• Muscle repair and growth
• A healthy gut microbiome
• Metabolic efficiency 
• Healthy digestion 
• AND SO MUCH MORE

This is especially true when you’re exercising and strength training regularly!! 💪🏼

Some of my favorite carb sources are:
• Fresh sourdough bread 
• Sweet potatoes and red potatoes 
• Squash and carrots
• Seasonal fruit 
• Honey and maple syrup 
• Raw milk
• Cassava tortillas and pasta 
• Homemade baked goods with cassava flour
• Dark chocolate 

What are your favorite carbs?! 😋

http://www.nourishedbykelseynicole.com/
#holistichealing #holisticnutrition #nutritionaltherapy #nutritionaltherapypractitioner #healthyrecipes #paleorecipes #nourishment #nourishedbykelseynicole #foodblogging #paleoblog #functionalhealth #bioindividuality #holisticnutritionist #foodisfuel #foodismedicine #hormonehealth #guthealth #carbs #glutenfreecarbs #healthycarbs #carbsbenefits
As someone who aims to as many real, whole foods a As someone who aims to as many real, whole foods as possible (and always GF), I’ve learned a thing or two about “healthy baking.” Here are the swaps I always make in my baked goods for healthy hormones, metabolism, and tastebuds! 👇🏼

• Grass fed (raw, if possible) butter instead of oil 
• @bobsredmill 1-to-1 GF flour instead of all purpose flour
• Raw sugar, coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup instead of white sugar 
• Substitute a little bit of the flour with protein powder or collagen (usually about 10% of the total flour)
• Grass fed (raw, if possible) milk > nut milk
• Cassava, oat, or GF blend flour > almond flour

Save this post to refer back to this season! And, happy baking 🧁🍪

PS Get this oldie, but a goodie, Chocolate Zucchini Bread recipe on the blog! 👉🏼 @nourishedbykelseynicole

http://www.nourishedbykelseynicole.com/
#holisticnutrition #nutritionaltherapypractitioner #nourishment #nourishedbykelseynicole #foodblogging #paleoblog #foodisfuel #foodismedicine #healthyrecipesideas #paleorecipeideas #nutrientdenserecipes #glutenfree #glutenfreebaking #healthybaking
Gluten Free Protein Pumpkin Muffins 🧁🎃 Alwa Gluten Free Protein Pumpkin Muffins 🧁🎃

Always a Fall staple in my home! I usually double this recipe to share with others or put the freezer for later 😋

Ingredients:
1 cup all purpose GF flour
1/3 cup vanilla protein powder (I use @naked.protein)
1 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp baking powder
1+ tbs pumpkin spice 
1 1/4 cup pumpkin
1 pastured egg
1/2 cup maple syrup or honey 
1/4 butter, melted and cooled
1/4-1/2 cup milk of choice (I use raw whole milk)
1/2+ cup dark chocolate chips

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 450F and grease muffin tin with coconut oil or butter.
2. Add all dry ingredients to a large bowl and mix. Add wet ingredients and mix.
3. Fold in chocolate chips. 
4. Pour into muffin tin. Bake for 5 minutes. Reduce heat to 350F. Bake for 12-15 minutes.

Enjoy!!

*Recipe adapted from @fitmittenkitchen 

http://www.nourishedbykelseynicole.com/
#holisticnutrition #nutritionaltherapypractitioner #nourishment #nourishedbykelseynicole #foodblogging #paleoblog #foodisfuel #foodismedicine #healthyrecipesideas #paleorecipeideas #nutrientdenserecipes #pumpkinmuffins #proteinpumpkinmuffins #glutenfreepumpkinmuffins
5 “healthy” habits that actually cause MORE st 5 “healthy” habits that actually cause MORE stress in the body…

1. Drinking coffee on an empty stomach
2. Working out fasted 
3. Limiting consumption of fruit and natural sugars
4. Opting for “low fat” foods
5. Drinking a gallon of water daily.

All of these habits add excessive stress to the body and can eventually lead to symptoms of burn out and physiological imbalances, like:
PMS
Weight gain
Acne
Insomnia
Chronic fatigue
AND SO MUCH MORE

Sometimes, our bodies need us to intentionally do LESS, not more. If you’re in a constant (physical or mental) state of stress, this means YOU!

Did you know these “healthy” habits could be detrimental to your health? 

http://www.nourishedbykelseynicole.com/
#holistichealing #holisticnutrition #nutritionaltherapy #nutritionaltherapypractitioner #healthyrecipes #paleorecipes #nourishment #nourishedbykelseynicole #foodblogging #paleoblog #functionalhealth #bioindividuality #holisticnutritionist #foodisfuel #foodismedicine #hormonehealth #guthealth #stress #healthyhabits #healthylifestyle
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