It was a wonderful experience to interview Kristeena and I really hope you enjoy her answers as much as I did!
1. Thank you so much for being a part of this interview. Please tell us a little about yourself and what your blog is about.
I’m an engineer/scientist by training and a wife and mother of 3 girls. My blog Taking the Tee (takingthetee.com) is really about my day-to-day life, but from a perspective of dealing with anxiety and the ups and downs that come along with adulting. The color of my skin, who I choose to be with, my career…these things have made life challenging, but I do find that some amazing things have come from some really unfair and crappy situations. And it’s how I deal with them and the anxiety they cause that allow me to grow.
2. When did you create your blog and why did you decide to create a blog?
I created the blog not long after moving to Boston as a therapeutic way to channel everything going on. I didn’t share it or let anyone know it was up, but it was an outlet and a way to store my experiences and lessons learned.
3. Your blog talks a lot about mental health and anxiety. When did you first realise you had anxiety?
When I was in college I started having panic attacks, mainly triggered by big tests and my fear of flying. Over time, I was more aware of other ways that anxiety could show up and that the panic attacks were usually the worst case.
4.Why is it important for you to share your experiences with anxiety and has blogging helped you with your mental health?
I mentioned that it’s been therapeutic writing down my thoughts. I can acknowledge them in full, then tuck them away and try to move forward. But I’ve also realized that so many people deal with anxieties everyday. It’s not unique and it’s not unconquerable.
5. In what ways has having children this affected your anxiety?
I’ve definitely dealt with postpartum anxiety that is heightened those first few months after having my daughter and the twins. But I would say that being a mom has actually helped overall. While there is more to worry about with 3 little ones, there’s also that drive to be strong for them. That doesn’t mean not panicking, just not letting panic and worry take over.
6. What are some things you do to help reduce your anxiety?
Working out is a huge help for me, and I lean on my faith as well. And I’m a huge advocate of therapy, whether it’s talking to someone, drawing, writing, ax throwing, whatever.
7. What advice would you give to someone who is struggling with anxiety?
To give yourself grace. It’s nothing to be ashamed of and I think talking and sharing are the biggest enemies of anxiety. Not only does it help to acknowledge what’s going on, but you never know what other benefits await.
8. You are a scientist which is so amazing! What advice would you give to people, especially women, who would be interested in that profession?
Thanks! I really love it. I’d say network and connect with people who are where you want to be. And don’t self-sabotage! Statistically we have a tendency to sell ourselves short when speaking about ourselves and applying for new positions. We’re so much better!
9. What are some of your long-term blogging goals?
I’d love to increase followers of course, but I think my main focus is just to stick with it. It’s easier said than done sometimes.
10. What is your favourite food?
Guava duff – I’m half-Bahamian and it’s an amazing dessert that I can’t have often
11. What is your favourite movie?
Crash
12. Are you more of a dog or cat person?
Dog, which is funny because I currently only have a cat
13. What is a hobby apart from blogging that you really enjoy?
Weightlifting
14. Thanks again and please feel free to add anything you would like to share with the readers.
Thanks so much for the opportunity Pooja. Here’s to a better year everyone!
If you enjoyed this interview don’t forget to stop by Kristeena’s blog by clicking here.
If you would like to be interviewed please send me your name (optional), the name of your blog and a link to your blog via email to insomniacwithanaccent@gmail.com
I’m a little busy at the moment and have quite a few interviews ready to post so please don’t worry if I don’t respond immediately. I will definitely respond as soon as possible.
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