If your mother is anything like mine, chances are she taught you things like “don’t talk to strangers”  and “if you’re wearing a dress, don’t flip upside down.”  Kelly Cutrone’s new book “If You Have to Cry, Go Outside and Other Things Your Mother Never Told You” offers a different spin on age-old advice. 

Her book instantly submerges the reader in a “no-bullshit, no drama” success strategy.  Kelly chronicles her journey from the first time she ever stepped foot in New York City at 16, to leaving her blue-collar town of Syracuse at the age of 22.  If you’re a recent college graduate trying to figure out how to make your mark in the world, or a busy new mom, picking up this book for a leisurely read will allow you to be the most successful person possible.     

Kelly knew she was destined to be something special, even while she was studying nursing to satisfy her parents’ dreams.  Five years later, after she graduated with a nursing degree, she simply walked into her dad’s study and told him she was moving to New York.  After a few trying years in New York involving drugs, homelessness, and failing to fit-in anywhere, Kelly finally got her feet on the ground. 

Today, she owns her own PR company in New York City, called People’s Revolution, has starred on reality shows such as The Hills, The City, and True Life, and is the single mother of an eight year old daughter.  

Kelly’s ultimate advice for any headstrong woman trying to be successful is simply to be you and never sell out.  Furthermore, she offers advice to “awaken and celebrate the magic inside yourself” by making sure your inner voices are yours, not your parents’ or friends’.  Always believe that your inner voice is the voice of your soul, and gather up your courage like an armful of free clothes at a McQueen sample sale. Remember, “It’s never a breakdown, it’s a breakthrough!”