Spreading Love and Inspiration Through Her Words; Meet Krystal Lawton, A Motivational Speaker Touching The Hearts Of Many
In this highlight we turn attention to Krystal Lawton, a motivational speaker impacting those within her community. Also creator of the podcast Finding Your Voice, a sort of motivational support system for those that need it, Krystal continues to make a mark within her community. I asked Krystal a series of questions, here is what we discussed:
Tell us a little about yourself, where your from, grew up, what H.S./College you attended, etc.
I was born in New Haven, CT, however, my family and I relocated to Rochester, NY in 2000. I was very fortunate to be introduced to the thriving arts community of Rochester at an early age and studied voice at Eastman School of Music thanks to their Pathways program. It was that early foundation to music that lead me to audition to School of the Arts where I attended high school majoring in both voice and instrumental. After graduating in 2009, I attempted college off and on for two years until I withdrew having felt lead to serve our country. I joined the United States Army as a Health Care Specialist in 2011.
What inspired you to be a motivational speaker? Early experiences worth sharing?
This piece is so interesting to discuss. Because from the outside looking in, it appeared as though I had a very blessed life-which, despite what I endured, I can say that is true. However, what most people did not know was that behind all of my success, I was struggling with PTSD from being molested at the age of 13. That experience lead me into several years of deep depression, anxiety, and self-destructive behavior in which I attempted to take my own life. My survival of my attempt was my wake up call to take my power back from these experiences, be that Alchemist and turn these things into something I could use to uplift and encourage others just like me. I had to do a lot of work to climb out of my depression and I want to give these tools to everyone else who needs them. My desire is to empower the seemingly powerless, encourage others to find their voice and own their truth, and to support and guide others on this infinite journey of self-mastery.
Talk about a time where you have faced adversity/conflict and have triumphed.
There have been countless times I’ve faced adversity and conflict and had no choice but to be resilient. However, I would say nothing was more challenging than facing myself. These last 7 months I had to be real with myself and get acquainted with all the things I didn’t want to heal, my own pessimism and my own toxic behavior. Taking responsibility for creating your own chaos in your life is not easy. But in accepting responsibility, that’s where the healing came; because I realized I had the power to fix it. And it put me back in control of my life. To a certain extent. There is a power much greater than me who looks after us all and at the end of the day, we can only control so much. There is freedom in letting go of the wheel sometimes.
What do you believe sets you apart from other motivational speakers?
Although I have been blessed to know many motivational speakers who show up authentically, I would say my unique style of vulnerability is what sets me apart from other motivational speakers. I leave nothing out. I hide no parts about myself. Why? Because I believe so many people want to know these tools really work. They want to know they are not alone. Often people share about the end result, but not what the work looks like as it is happening. I share my journey authentically while continuing to encourage others along theirs. My ability to be vulnerable has also helped with anxiety; because once I got comfortable in my skin and in my truth, I had freedom. I didn’t have anxiety speaking out anymore because I had nothing I was trying to hide or cover up. Reputations are all about perspective and it varies from person to person. I accept myself for who I am and who I am not. I think a lot of people today appreciate people who are raw and real when we live in a society where so many people wear masks.
Do you have any other interests or hobbies?
Outside of kicking it with my beautiful daughter, I love signing and dancing! Although I no longer do musicals or gigs, music is still a huge part of my life. It’s something I’ve been able to introduce my daughter to as well. We are always singing, dancing and playing guitar. She’s the next Jimi Hendrix, just wait on it! I also love writing. I have a blog where I share insights along my journey and when I am not journaling to reflect, I write poetry and music.
Any projects you have out or are currently working on?
Presently I have a podcast called “Finding Your Voice with Krystal Lawton”. I am also finishing up a book where I compiled a few of the tools that helped me along my path of healing and self-mastery into 13 steps to help others get started on their journey. My goal is to have this completed by the new year.
Additionally, I would like to take the opportunity to share an organization of a colleague of mine. This cause is near and dear to my heart. As you may be aware, our beautiful planet is constantly misused, abused and riddled in waste. We Clean Planet is a non-profit organization pioneering a global awakening in the way we dispose of our trash. They are dedicated to building community, self-awareness and conscious living. There are so many ways you can get behind this movement and make a difference! Please visit their website to learn more about how you can do your part to make this world a better place.
Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years?
In 5 years I will be traveling the world with my daughter spreading this message of love and light to all who need to hear it. I will be a best selling author writing content that really inspires and transforms the collective consciousness. I will be much further along in this journey I am on, my heart will be filled with peace and I will be surrounded with the presence of those whom I love most. As long as I’m alive, healthy, and thriving what more could I truly ask for? The simplicity of life-in just being, is so beautiful.
What advice can you give to those following their passions?
Stay on your path and stay out of your head! Stop overthinking. Stop doubting. Stop questioning. If this is something that has been burning inside you, there’s no way you weren’t meant to do it. As long as you are in alignment, you can trust your intuition. You will fall, yes. It’s a part of the process. It is in that fall that you learn who you truly are and what you are truly made of. You adapt, you readjust, and you get back up so much wiser than when you started. Don’t think you have to be perfect to start whatever it is that you want to do; your gift will make room for you as you step out on faith. Take a chance on you. You’ll be glad that you did!
How can we follow along in your journey? Social media?
Instagram: krystal_lawton
Facebook: @findingyourvoicewithkrystallawton
Podcast (all platforms): Finding Your Voice with Krystal Lawton
Blog: http://krystallawtonlopez.wixsite.com/findingyourvoice
Learn More About We Clean Planet: https://www.wecleanplanet.com
