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Embracing change can feel like a steep climb. Yet, it is a crucial step for our personal and professional development. Recently, I made the significant decision to leave my job in pursuit of my counselling practice and to focus on my community, SACHA - Southport African Caribbean Hertiage Association. The path ahead is filled with uncertainty and excitement, allowing me to pursue what truly matters to me.
Reflecting on this decision and the journey it has initiated is important. In this post, I'll share my experience, the challenges I've encountered, and the benefits of making such a bold move.
The Decision to Leave
Leaving a steady job is a life-altering choice. For me, it was not about escaping a situation; rather, it represented a step toward something I had always longed for.
The realisation struck when I found myself envisioning my counselling practice, imagining how I could help others navigate their experiences. Despite the looming fears of uncertainty and financial instability—like the statistics showing that 20% of new businesses fail within the first year—the desire for a fulfilling life pushed those concerns aside.
Overcoming Fear of the Unknown
Facing the fear of the unknown is one of the greatest challenges when embracing change. Leaving my job brought up questions that raced through my mind: What if I fail? What if clients don’t come?
To address these fears, I leaned into mindfulness and self-reflection. Setting aside time for processing my emotions became crucial. Personal therapy and reflection allowed me to express my worries and envision a life dedicated to counselling. I recognised that fear is often just a sign of growth, encouraging us to explore new possibilities.
One Fewer Hat: A Fresh Start
Shifting my focus to SACHA and my counselling practice is more than just a career change; it’s about crafting a space that aligns with my values. SACHA embodies my commitment to helping individuals navigate their challenges, showcasing my passion for this profession.
To create a successful practice, I needed a roadmap. I developed a comprehensive business plan that defined my vision, identified my target audience, and outlined the services I aim to offer. This structured approach not only clarified my goals but also guided me on this new journey.
The Importance of Self-Care
As I ventured further into this new chapter, I recognised how critical self-care is for maintaining balance. Leading up to this transition, I often side-lined my needs while focusing on work. Without effective self-care, the overwhelming challenges of launching a new practice could easily lead to burnout.
In my journey, I started incorporating regular self-care routines. For instance, I schedule time for meditation, daily walks, and engaging in community activities.. These activities keep me grounded and provide the necessary energy to pursue my passion. They also serve as vital reminders of my purpose and help build resilience through the ups and downs.
Establishing Community Connections
Moving from a my job to the world of counselling means forging new connections within the community. Networking with fellow professionals, attending workshops, and participating in local events have helped me meet like-minded individuals and expand my support network.
Connecting with other professionals has been invaluable. Many have shared their experiences and the fears they faced when starting their practices. This community not only provides encouragement but also reinforces the understanding that I am not alone in my journey.
Learning and Growing Through Challenges
Adapting to change comes with its challenges. Over the course of 3 years, I established the foundation for SACHA and implemented necessary changes.
I grappled with challenges in my private practice such as attracting clients and managing the administrative tasks of running a practice. At times, it felt overwhelming.
However, I learned to view these challenges as opportunities for growth. Each obstacle taught me important lessons—whether about effective marketing strategies or financial management. Embracing a mindset of lifelong learning, I prioritise skills development through online courses and workshops to enhance my abilities continually.
Celebrating Small Wins
Throughout this journey, it's important to acknowledge and celebrate small victories. Whether it's the privilege of collaborating with a new client, receiving favourable feedback, or finishing a challenging task, every accomplishment merits recognition.
These small victories boost my motivation and encourage a positive outlook. Reflecting on my progress reaffirms why I left my previous job and strengthens my commitment to this new path.
Looking Ahead
As I move further along this journey, my vision for SACHA evolves. I aim to create authentic interactions and offer a safe space for our members to explore their emotions.
The unknown may seem intimidating, but I am learning it is also full of possibilities. Every day is a chance to impact someone’s life positively. I look forward to this journey, trusting that each step brings me closer to deeper knowledge, expertise, and satisfaction.
The Journey Continues
By embracing change and leaving my job, I have opened the door to new opportunities and skills. From overcoming fears to building connections, this journey has taught me valuable lessons about resilience and commitment.
For anyone contemplating a similar leap, remember that the path may not always be clear. Yet, each confident step brings you closer to your true purpose. Embrace the unknown, and let your passion lead you to a richer, more meaningful life.
In this mix of uncertainty and excitement, I am learning to trust the journey, welcome change, and embrace what lies ahead.