Like most folks, I’m not crazy about tests and quizzes. But today, I have to say that I have never been so excited about the results of an exam. This afternoon, I received an email announcing that I had passed the oral components of my exam! I was unbelievably excited. Over a year’s worth of hard work had actually and finally paid off! I am so glad that I didn’t give up. I somehow found the ongoing courage to continue the process and successfully crack the tough nut – the exam.
With focus, determination, support, and definite stubbornness, I tamed my inner critic to complete this final step. It was difficult for me to endure the critical, evaluative process of the exam, yet my tenacity served me well as I relearned about self-confidence and choice. Yes this struggle made me rediscover my self esteem and reminded me of my authentic self.
Not passing this exam the first time was difficult to accept and often I really didn’t think I would finish it. I easily came up with a hundred reasons to forget about it and move on to something else. But with support from my mentors, I reminded myself of other times and places that it took more than one attempt to finally complete a worthwhile goal.
Nature is not perfect, and many creatures are not successful in their first attempt at hunting or foraging. The animals continue foraging for reasons of survival. Humans, though, are different. We can choose our focus, what we will continue to chase or what we will abandon. So why was this exam, this focus so important to me?
Once I received this good news, I put on my runners and ran for an hour. It was so easy and effortless. I was so pumped that I didn’t notice the poor footing in the slushy snow. I felt invincible. I daydreamed about all the doors that were now open to me and the new ventures that I would attempt to conquer.
During my victory run, I reflected on my accomplishment, the journey it took to get here, and what all of this really meant to me. I realized that achieving goals is important to me and that continually improving or growing myself is a good thing. I realized that without the support from many helpful people this task may not have been completed at all.
So will the next nut I go after be as tough? I am really not sure. I suppose it depends upon how much I want to invest in myself or stretch my growing edges. I also suspect that the adrenalin rush will be directly proportional to the toughness of the next nut!!
Thanks to the faculty at Adler International Learning, my study buddy Carolin, the practicum gal pals, the ATC Doodlers, friends, family and of course clients!
SHAZAM – I did it!
December 16, 2010
What an accomplishment! Congratulations! I love that you are going for it …and that you went for a run to celebrate. 🙂
December 17, 2010
Thanks Christine … what are you going for these days?
December 17, 2010
Congratulations Carol!!! That’s fantastic news and I’m so happy for you 🙂 Now that’s natural courage and very inspiring to me. Good luck Ms. ACPC!
December 17, 2010
Thanks Guy and best wishes for a successful 2011!
December 17, 2010
Hey Couz,
Very proud of you! Have a great holiday season!
December 17, 2010
Congratulations Carol! I had no doubt you would do it! A well deserved victory lap!
December 17, 2010
Congratulations Klink!! You are as tough as that nut in a wonderful way. I’m proud of you. Merry Christmas.
December 17, 2010
Yahoo! A great role model of staying focused on what is important. Congratulations.
December 17, 2010
Thanks Marcia for helping me stay focused 🙂
December 17, 2010
Well done Carol, good to hear! Though I can’t say I’m surprised, not with what I know about you.
You’re in good company too, Nature Girl. As it turns out, as I understand it, we’re all part and parcel of nature, adapting and evolving. The cool and groovy thing is that we also have something in common that virtually assures positive outcomes – we all want to be loved by the people we care about. Your winning at this exam will let you shine your light on more people, like me, whom will benefit and appreciate you even more than ever for what you do.
The beautiful thing of it all is, you’re making it easier for others, like me, to do more for others for many of the same reasons! Merry Christmas you little smarty pants!
December 17, 2010
Thanks David and best wishes for a successful 2011!
December 17, 2010
Congratluations Carol – what a wonderful early Christmas Gift! You have incredible insight and such a deep connection to the world we live in – I feel privledged to have experienced your gift. Happy Holidays!
December 18, 2010
Thanks Cindy – best wishes on your journey!
December 20, 2010
Congratulations!!!! I am inspired by your tenacity…
Merry Christmas and I look forward to connecting in the new year.
December 20, 2010
Thanks and see you in the new year.
December 29, 2010
You go girl, You do inspire me, so I will make my 2011 list too.
Thanks for your time and help this year and hoping you have a great holiday with all your family and Happy New Year.
Mar
December 30, 2010
Thanks for this Mar and wishing you health and happiness in 2011!!
January 5, 2011
Wow, you cracked the toughest nut in your way. Now all the others will be driven by your success.
I’m proud of you and pray all the best for you Carol.