CWV Book Corner: Nicole Mitchell Colley, Author and Mental Health Advocate

In this month’s CWV Book Corner, we are honored to feature Nicole Mitchell Colley, an inspiring Army Veteran, author, and mental health advocate. With two decades of military service and a passion for self-care, Colley’s work resonates with women Veterans, active-duty service members, and the general public. Through her prompted self-love and self-awareness journals, she empowers individuals to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and well-being.

Nicole Mitchell Colley’s military journey began in 2003 when she joined the Army Reserve as a human resources specialist. In 2005, she transitioned to active duty, reclassifying as a financial management specialist. For eight years, she served at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, including a deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom from 2010 to 2011.

Colley’s military experiences profoundly shaped her writing style and the themes she explores in her work. The discipline, attention to detail, and teamwork she learned in the military have become integral to her writing process. Her unique perspective as a woman Veteran informs her exploration of human behavior, resilience, and the power of self-love.

Nicole Mitchell Colley’s writing aims to uplift and empower women Veterans, active-duty service members, and the general public. Her prompted self-love and self-awareness journals are designed to cultivate self-love and prioritize well-being. For women Veterans, these journals offer a transformative tool for processing and healing from the unique challenges they face. Through storytelling and literature, Colley seeks to foster understanding and support for the women Veteran community, leading to greater appreciation and recognition of their invaluable contributions.

One poignant experience that has had a lasting impact on Colley’s life and writing is the suicide of a close friend during her military service. This tragic event led her to dedicate her life to helping others, becoming a mental health advocate and pursuing a career as a social worker. Colley believes that sharing stories can be a powerful tool for healing and growth, and she strives to use her writing to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Nicole Mitchell Colley finds inspiration in the works of fellow women Veteran authors, particularly Lisa Osborne’s book “Gangsta Therapy.” This book resonated deeply with Colley’s own experiences of childhood trauma, helping her to take charge of her life and overcome victimhood. Osborne’s work serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling and the importance of self-compassion and resilience.

For women Veterans and active-duty service members considering writing about their experiences, Nicole Mitchell Colley offers invaluable advice. She emphasizes the importance of honesty, authenticity, and self-compassion in the writing process, recognizing the uniqueness and value of each person’s story. Colley also stresses the need for self-care, seeking support from trusted individuals or professionals, and embracing feedback to refine and shape one’s message.

Writing has been a transformative experience for Nicole Mitchell Colley, allowing her to come to terms with past experiences, find peace, and develop a deeper love for herself. The positive impact of her work on others has brought her immense joy and fulfillment. Currently, Colley is collaborating with 30 women to write a book titled “Thank God I Don’t Look Like What I Have Been Through: The Stories of 30 Resilient Women.” This project aims to share the stories of resilience and triumph among women who have overcome adversity, highlighting the strength and determination of the human spirit.

CWV extends an invitation to women Veteran authors to connect with their outreach program. For more information, please visit their website or contact Michelle Terry, the CWV Outreach Program Manager, at 00W@VA.Gov. CWV is committed to supporting and empowering women Veterans in their literary pursuits and sharing their stories with the world.

Nicole Mitchell Colley’s journey as an author and mental health advocate is a testament to the power of self-love, resilience, and the transformative nature of storytelling. Through her writing, she continues to inspire and empower women Veterans, active-duty service members, and the general public, reminding us of the importance of self-care, self-awareness, and the profound impact of sharing our stories.