We are not born to fear. We are born to be brave.

Within months of learning to walk, a child will begin to hear the word “no” so often that it will start to shape how they feel about themselves. In a recent study at UCLA, some psychologists say at a pace of at least 100-200 times per day. It is predicted that they will be told “NO” over 5,000 times In the child’s first year of walking. The word “no” is for the child’s protection or often for the parents’ need for rest. If you are around kids, count your NO responses. Look in the mirror and say NO to yourself 100 times. You will begin to train your brain to “feel a certain way when you hear it.” NO will defeat you and pain will ensue.

We are not born with fear, it is learned. “No” to many people means rejection when as a child it may have been meant for correction. Being told “no” can create a feeling of sadness, despair, and loss of control. Hopelessness sets in and chases bravery out. The “fear of being rejected is born and harvested daily.” Some children begin to take fewer risks for fear of the word “no.”

Bryan Kelsey

Born in Woodstock Illinois and lived in Chicago suburb Fox River Grove. Moved to St. Louis in 1980 through 2021. Now in sunny Cape Coral, Florida.

I started my sales career going door to door in the early 1980’s. I moved into computer programming in order to have a “safe career” however due to corporate downsizing I was given a POTSEE. “A permanent opportunity to seek employment elsewhere.”

At the time losing a job seemed like the worst thing that could happen however it was a blessing as I entered the real estate world and that is when life’s opportunities opened up.

The joy of my life is my son and his family. I have an amazing son Benjamin and his wife Hannah and am grandfather to Ben, Judah, and Esther.

  • Cancer survivor since 2011
  • Founder of Excelsior Relocation
  • Founder of Fox Financial Realty
  • Acquired Relocation Management
  • Acquired Relocation Services
  • Historically had been in the top five Realtors in the state of Missouri
  • Was the top Re/Max and Coldwell Banker agent in Mo during my career
  • Was a manager for Prudential (now Berkshire Hathaway)
  • Was co-owner of Benchmark Title
  • Was co-owner of Redstone Lending
  • Has coached Realtors ranging from 10 million to 100 million in production
  • Successfully coached Loan Officers 
  • Coached London-based financial planners
  • Was an adjunct professor at the University of Missouri through The Center for Financial Education
  • Founder of Fox Financial (Property Acquisitions with Jim Stern)
  • Founder of Born to be Brave: Real Estate
  • Founder of The Property Pump