True to human nature, the new year is a time of resolution and planning. We commit to making changes, ditching old habits and shy away from what is no longer serving us. One of the biggest bandwagons of the new year (aside from the health & fitness fads) is reconsidering your job or a major career change. So many people think and talk about changing, but don't actually take the steps to leave behind the old for new beginnings. When we make room for new things and opportunities, we are asking for growth. We want better for ourselves and we seek to make that happen.
While I don't usually go around giving out advice, I will say this: If you aren't where you want to be in life, make a change. Take a class. Get involved in the community. Become a mentor. Any positive change made with intention will most certain lead to something greater. And no, it doesn't have to be big. I am not telling you to quit your job tomorrow with no prospects, okay. Start small, write down goals and begin to plan your next move. Little things can make a big impact.
So, what new things are you planing for 2022?
Are you planning to take a leap of faith?
Maybe you are called to birth work...
If so, I want to you to consider the Best of Both Worlds Doula Services Mentorship Program.
Birth work is not your average job or career. You may hear a lot of doulas, including myself, refer to their work as their "calling" and it is very true. This work requires the very best of yourself... your whole, authentic self. You have to trust our instincts and the depths of your soul because that is what will guide you above experience and education. I say all the time that birth work ain't for the faint of heart and as each year passes, it couldn't be more true. So before you dip your toe into this work, you need to really know that you are called. It could be one transformative moment in your life or a series of events that led to your calling. But you will know. And if you don't, you will be "driven" or guided to it one way or another.
▫️Weekly birth work & business classes held on Zoom/Google Meet
▫️Weekly homework assignments to develop each part of your business plan
▫️Researching your local community, health care system and ideal clientele
▫️A summary/overview of what you learned during the course, an outline of your business plan, a community referral list and a business resource list for networking
BOBWDS Mentorship Options:
▫️Business consultations are available to those interested in a career in birth work (recent college graduates, newly trained doulas or doulas new to the area) who may be seeking general advice or guidance. One-time 30 minute consultations are $35. One-time 90 minute consultations are $75.
▫️The BOBWDS 8-week program will explore birth work and business and help each program participant develop a unique business plan based on their interests, personalities and passions. Modules will include:
- Birth work business concentration or pathway (type of doula, lactation consultant, midwife)
- Business development, branding and the factors to consider when starting a business
- Clientele/Target Market
- Legalities of business and birth work
- Trainings and certification
- Reproductive justice/reproductive rights
- Diversity & cultural competency
- Networking and community partnerships
- Self care & burnout prevention
Cost for the 8-week program is $350.
▫️Ongoing mentorship is provided to mentees who have completed the 8-week program. You will receive monthly business development check ins via phone or Zoom and access to additional educational tools and business opportunities in my private Facebook group. Ongoing mentorship is $60/month.
How to apply:
▫️Fill out the application here. (Applications are now closed)
▫️Application deadline for the Spring 2022 session is January 31st, 2022.
▫️Applicants chosen for interviews will be notified in February.
Each program participant will receive a syllabus & program guide as well as a certificate of completion once the program requirements are fulfilled.
Limited spaces are available for my 8-week Spring 2022 session. Classes begin in March. Please email me at [email protected] with any questions.
Personal Note: I became a mentor to fill a need. I have learned that while fulfilling, birth work isn't for the faint of heart and I want to guide those who have a true interest in supporting families during pregnancy, birth and postpartum and how to best serve each one. I will provide the foundation to build a sustainable business, your way, while supporting families with purpose & passion.