Hi Ashley,

I think I’m an optimistic, determined, nature-loving, environmentally caring man. As an example, I took that picture that is my avatar. It was a sunset in my neighborhood.

Thinking back to when I was 23, things were pretty good for me, but at other times I’ve had issues like you. I know a little about what you are going through, and I’ve got some questions for you.

I’ve had a chronic skin problem for my adult life. It’s not easy. Your acne, if it persists or leaves you imperfect, will this help you to understand your patients? Granted that you will not personalize your sessions, but will seeing that you have coped with this challenge somehow inspire your patients?

I’ve been really down – not quite clinically depressed, and knowing I needed help, I went to counselors or psychologists. What happens when you have some tough cases, and stress gets to you, or you make a mistake that has consequences, will you have someone to turn to for some heavy lifting re: your own support and self care?

When entering a new chapter in my life, more than once, I’ve been excited and also had fears. This odd mix does not sit well. It comes with change. It is amplified and can be detrimental, if you don’t have a balanced life. By that, I mean family, friends, hobbies, exercise, vacations, sports, community affairs, etc. … so, it can help to prepare as much as possible for your challenges in your work. And, for your new job, can you get busy with clothes, readings, learning about your employer, talking to those who went before you…? In the future you might change employers, or go through other changes that present a new chapter – will it help if you have some practical strategies to move through the change?

In short Ashley, could the challenges that you are facing now actually help you and others? If you do some reframing, does this make sense? Tell me what you think ok?

By the way, congrats on your new job. Where are you going to celebrate? Who’s coming along..? 🙂

Big blue

• This reply was modified 10 years, 5 months ago by Big blue.