5 Salient Lessons I Have Learned in the Past Year
Another post….really Josie? YES! This first year is such a milestone and feels like celebrating all month long! However, with all the celebration, it is just as important to name the ways that I have learned about myself, my roles as a therapist/consultant, and business ownership!
The first lesson that I learned was that networking is ESSENTIAL! I started my year of business ownership meeting with community liaisons, other therapists, educators, and other professionals over Zoom, over tea/coffee, through attending presentations and events, and joining Facebook groups for professional networking! Networking propelled my work by allowing me to become a connector and be connected. With this, I continue to learn the needs of my local community in therapy and consulting. Networking is so important and is one of the biggest reasons that this business has stayed afloat!
The second lesson is that it is SO important to know what I excel in and what I need help in. Even though it took me a while to realize, I had to learn that I can’t do everything perfectly. I learned that asking for help is one of the smartest business decisions I have made so far. From social media, to accounting, to legal compliance, I learned that it is important to find the right people to support me in my work.
“The best way I market my business is to market myself and who I am.”
The third lesson I have learned is to BE AUTHENTIC. The business and work I do is a reflection of myself, my values, and the goals I have. The best way I market my business is to market myself and who I am. It is so important that those I work with know where I stand, and how I show up in the spaces I work in. By showing up as my most authentic self, I am able to truly find the clients and the organizations that are the best fit for me.
The fourth lesson I learned is that learning must be ongoing! Trainings, workshops, consultation groups, etc. Getting connected with other professionals to further our learning is so crucial for me because it helps me become better in my work and thus provide stronger and more salient services for my clients.
Lastly, mistakes are inevitable in business! Mistakes shape me and teach me to do differently! Mistakes are part of the process and help me know how to remain organized, efficient and effective! The mistakes I have made have also led me to some of the greatest tools and resources I use every day, like Square, Simple Practice, and more!
