Kristilynn Turney, Ed.D.Keynote Speaker, Salem Speakers Bureau · TEDx Ensley Ave ED 2026 I Dynamic Speaker & Presenter I Author I Transforming Schools Through Strategic Planning, Leadership Development, and School Improvement I Results-Driven Educational Leader | E

Why the Labels People Put on You Are Lying to You

14 Apr 2026 · 1 min

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The speaker was labeled the "problem child" in school, and that single tag followed them everywhere, shaping how teachers and peers saw them before they could define themselves. Labels stick longer than they should, even though who you are changes depending on context.

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Because our identity has multiple layers and vary in time, situation, and location. Most of us didn't choose our first label and had to live with it far longer than we should. Growing up as the problem child, teachers noticed my behavior before they noticed my potential. I didn't fit the mold, And once that label stuck, it followed me from classroom to classroom, from the cheerleading squad to the band room to the track team, shaping expectations before I ever had a chance to speak.