This past year has been a whirlwind with my husband's campaign and me launching my doula business. My daily schedule was packed with Zumba classes, meetings, political and fitness events, school/playdates, volunteering, errands and everything in between. I slept less, ate more and sacrificed time out with friends to keep up with it all. I feel like I had a baby!
For a few years now, I have been strategically planning my career path and I made a big leap this year by officially becoming a doula. I still remember my training weekend like it was yesterday. I was surrounded by a lovely group of women who were just as eager as I was to soak up as much knowledge as we could in three days. By the end of the weekend, I felt so empowered and I couldn't wait to assist families in such a beautiful way. And just like that, I was off and running ready to make my mark in the birth community. For the better part of the year, I have spent countless hours reading, researching, planning, preparing, blogging, collaborating and giving birth to my business. Some days it really does feel like I had a baby!
While I still have many plans to put forth, I am preparing for all that 2016 will bring in business and other aspects of my life. Never have I worked so hard to build something. Probably because it is all mine. My responsibility. My passion. My business is my baby. And to think, it all started off as just an idea.
I am expecting big and exciting things in 2016 including meeting some precious newborns and their families. I, however, do not plan on having another baby of my own this year (that's a different post). I will continue to nurture and love my business for now. And that still means late nights and early mornings.
To my fellow doulas: Continue to be exceptional and professional. Thank you for all of the advice, shared experiences, doula wins and confidence. Be secure in who you are and the services you provide and know that you are enough.
To my future clients: I can't wait to meet you and your little ones! Remember to embrace your parenthood journey and trust your instincts.
To my husband: Thank you for all of your support. You have no idea what it means to me to know that you believe in me and my work. When you ask me questions like, "Where do you see your business in 10 years?", I know you see me as more than your wife and Preston's mother, you see me as a businesswoman. I love you.
It is often said that expecting anything is guaranteeing disappointment. But as I have gotten older, I have learned that expecting good things to happen in life motivates me and creates the positive mindset I need to live and thrive and be the best I can be for my family. Working hard and taking risks is how we get what we want out of life. Why not expect the best for yourself? I believe that life will reward us for expecting more.
What expectations do you have for 2016?
Peace, prosperity and blessings to you in 2016!