What I Learned from Getting it Wrong
Sometimes, taking care of your mental health can be done through small changes that you implement in your daily life. It can be as simple as taking a walk, reaching out and spending time with those you care about, or recognizing that mistakes don’t define you. This summer, I learned some of the most meaningful steps towards better mental well-being can be found through the small moments of everyday life.
Hi! My name is Mallory Gansberg, and I am a rising senior at Illinois State University pursuing a degree in Human Development and Family Science with a concentration in Child Life. Following my graduation in December, I plan to continue my education by pursuing a master's degree in Educational Administration and Policy or Educational Psychology, with the goal of expanding my knowledge and skills in educational leadership and advocacy.
This summer, I had the privilege of interning with No Shame On U through the Lewis Summer Intern Program at JUF Chicago. I have always been passionate about both psychology and education, and I viewed this internship as the perfect opportunity to deepen my understanding of how mental health impacts not only individuals, but also the families, relationships, and communities that shape their lives. In addition, this experience gave me valuable insight into the day-to-day operations of a small nonprofit organization and allowed me to witness the meaningful impact organizations like No Shame On U have on individuals and communities. As I reflect on this experience, I am leaving with new skills, lasting memories, and several important lessons that will continue to guide me throughout my personal and professional journey. More importantly, I hope the lessons I learned can help others to lead a more positive lifestyle as well.
One of the greatest lessons I learned was the importance of finding joy in the little things. At the beginning of the summer, I wanted to experience every opportunity available to me, often at the expense of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. I quickly realized that constantly staying busy left me feeling less engaged and exhausted. I began asking myself what small habit I could incorporate into each day that would bring me joy outside of work. I tried spending time with friends and family, scrolling through social media, and even allowing myself quiet moments to do nothing. Ultimately, I discovered the power of taking a walk. Simply stepping outside, leaving behind my work environment, and moving for thirty minutes helped me think more clearly, reduce stress, and appreciate the present moment. Walking became a reminder that joy can often be found in life's simplest moments, whether it was noticing blooming flowers, listening to birds chirping, or enjoying the warmth of a summer evening. In addition, it shows that taking steps to improve our mental health care can be small and simple, but can have a large impact.
Another lesson that will stay with me is the importance of finding your community. Before this internship, I underestimated how meaningful it could be to surround myself with people who shared similar values, passions, and goals. My fellow interns became an incredible source of encouragement, support, and friendship throughout the summer. Working for an organization rooted in the Jewish community also gave me the opportunity to learn more about values and traditions. Throughout my experience, I was inspired by the kindness, compassion, generosity, and commitment to service demonstrated by everyone I met. Their dedication to improving the lives of others reinforced the importance of building communities grounded in empathy and purpose, and leaving this world in a better condition than we found it. Everyone has a different community, but everyone’s community grows one person at a time. Some might have larger communities compared to others, but it is imperative to not compare yourself to anyone else.
This internship also taught me that listening is often more valuable than speaking. While I had many opportunities to share my thoughts and ask questions, I learned that some of the greatest opportunities for growth come from listening carefully to the experiences and perspectives of others. I discovered that asking thoughtful, relevant questions is far more valuable than feeling the need to always have the right answer. My curiosity and willingness to learn opened doors to new experiences and allowed me to develop greater confidence over time, and allowed me to be comfortable making mistakes and asking for help.
Finally, one of the most impactful lessons came from my supervisor, who emphasized that making mistakes is an essential part of growth. Without mistakes, it is impossible to learn, develop new skills, or discover what challenges and opportunities truly interest us. Throughout the summer, I was introduced to multiple new concepts that make up nonprofit work, including grant research and writing, administrative responsibilities, and creating organized, professional materials. There were many moments when I felt uncertain or made mistakes, but I was consistently encouraged to keep trying, ask questions, and explore alternative approaches. That support allowed me to become more confident in my abilities and reminded me that growth rarely happens without discomfort. Learning to be okay with mistakes does not mean you hold yourself to lower standards or stop working towards your goals, but emphasizes the importance of growing through what you learn when you make a mistake.
Overall, this internship has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my professional journey. It reinforced the importance of maintaining a positive and supportive work environment, not only for productivity but also for mental well-being. More importantly, it gave me the opportunity to learn more about myself, strengthen my professional skills, and gain greater clarity about the kind of leader and advocate I hope to become. I am incredibly grateful to No Shame On U, the Lewis Summer Intern Program, and everyone who made this experience so meaningful. The lessons I learned this summer will continue to influence both my future education and my career for years to come, and I am excited to see how everything will unfold. I am incredibly grateful to No Shame On U, the Lewis Summer Intern Program, and everyone who made this experience so meaningful. I am leaving this summer with a deeper understanding of mental health, stronger professional skills, and a renewed commitment to becoming the kind of leader and advocate who helps others feel supported, understood, and never ashamed to ask for help.
To everyone reading this, I hope you remember you don’t have to have everything figured out. Allow yourself to slow down, find the people who make you feel like you belong, and make mistakes. Your mental health deserves the same care and attention you give to other parts of your life and the same care you would give to other people. One day at a time, we can work with others to be more open and reduce the shame and stigmas that surround mental health, just like No Shame On U works to do daily.
Written By: Mallory Gansberg - Rising Senior at Illinois State University