Needless to say, those who’ve walked the path of self-destruction can better understand the importance of success and life overall. Life, from the perspective of Kardell Sims – a justice-involved individual, is about keeping a positive and consistent attitude towards your vision and letting your past experiences and failures re-construct you into a better version of yourself.
Outgrowing the odds and limitations of life, Kardell Sims has learned from every inch of his experience and used it to elevate his position in society. Now, he has transitioned into a prison prevention expert, well-reputed speaker, and author. Being an individual who has walked the path of prison numerous times, Kardell stresses on how to best address criminality and the re-integration process.
The seasoned prison mentor is a perfect example of people who aren’t given the most favorable circumstances to succeed in life. Yet, they overcome the odds to turn their life around. Growing up in an impoverished neighborhood, Kardell’s poor background paved the way for his pathway into criminality, resulting in him spending most of his adult life in and out of federal and state prison. For twenty long years, he frequently went to jail only to return to street crime while on parole or probation.
However, his time in federal prison was a life-changer. Instead of returning to the streets to hang out with gangs and drug dealers, Kardell decided to do something different after getting out of prison this time. As he walked out the prison gates, he had already set his mind to never return to jail again. Since then, he aligned his actions to his positive goals and visions and dedicated the later chapter of his life to giving back to those still on their journey to change.
After serving fifty-seven months in federal prison, Kardell got out and got a job for $11 per hour, later got into business, took life-coaching classes, and within six months, he had a life-coaching diploma. He didn’t stop at that. He went on to put his experiences to paper and ended up writing six books. Speaking at universities, prisons, and clubs, he also aims to prevent youth from a life of criminality and prison.
Five years into re-integration, the ex-inmate has transitioned into a master-certified empowerment coach, re-entry specialist, author, speaker, and prison prevention mentor. Kardell has set a perfect example that you don’t need to be young or at a specific age to make a mindset shift; the decision to make your life better should be welcomed anytime.
Kardell has not only changed the course of his life but he’s also shared his incredible journey on the pathway out of criminality to inspire millions. Ultimately, it’s all about learning from experiences without letting your past dominate your present and future. Learn more about Kardell Sims’ lived experiences here through his podcasts, where he has shared his past life and re-entry journey.
