One step closer to my Master's Degree!

This week I wrapped up my final curriculum based course for my MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling!

One of my goals was to maintain a 4.0 GPA throughout the entire program and I am proud to say that I did!

It has been a lot of work.

I am blessed to be able to go to school full time and run my business full time.

Many people are surprised to know that I have paid out of pocket for my Master's Program.

It is a big investment but to me, I see it as an investment in the people I will help in the future.

I used to think education was not the 'right' investment.

But what I have learned is that it is actually one of the most rewarding investments with immediate ROI if applied.

I have always loved school and whether this made any difference in my business, it is making a difference in me and that in itself will help me help more people.

I have no doubt though that the application of my investments I foresee make all of the time, energy, and effort worth it!

The things I have learned have already made a difference in how I work with clients and I know it will only continue.

I still don't want to 'play the game' though. I truly am here to change it and have never been one to stick to the status quo, especially when it isn't working.

The goals and dreams I have and my vision for helping the fitness and bodybuilding community, and I know many other populations into the future, is so vast and thus, required a new version of me.

I have held onto my mission statement since applying for my master's program.

I remember applying and thinking they might not like me because of what I am currently doing and how much I believe in helping bodybuilders and how 'taboo' some people think the mission is.

But to my surprise, I have only been uplifted and supported throughout my entire commitment to this. It has been so rewarding to connect and learn from people in the mental health world and to receive many kudos and encouragement has only made me feel more humbled by the role of a 'mental health professional'.

Seeing how much work goes into this, I have even more respect for the people who devote their lives to helping others with the most complex parts of their life.

I am so inspired by these people as I aim to learn, contribute, and lay new foundations for people who come after me.

I have been toying with the idea of getting a PhD next but right now, I am just putting one foot in front of the other. I am so excited to be moving onto the field experience portion of the program.

Every day I feel a huge responsibility in the work I do already within the fitness industry, I am so excited to be able to contribute more of my knowledge of psychology and treatment in a more clinical setting!

The more I learn, the better.

Because truthfully, we all have struggles that intertwine with other struggles and needs.

The more I can understand how to support someone with one disorder, the more I can learn to help another.

Perspective really is everything.

I know the next year will challenge me in new ways as I navigate the work of my internship with the immense commitment I have to my business service and growth.

The good news is, I have systems, processes, and amazing people who help me.

I cannot believe the time is already here! My value, my bar, and my expectations for myself have all been raised.
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#BUILDMORETHANJUSTABODY

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