My Beginnings…

What a start! It started as a maybe, someday, a far off, later in life goal- one without any steps to go about achieving it. It came up more in casual conversations of dreams and aspirations, where do you see yourself…? Then it became a greater want, to create more, to lead more, and focus more. Eventually, with assessing the environment around me, it became a need. In my own work, I’ve learned to check in with myself and evaluate. When my needs are no longer being met, can I address the issues and advocate for change? When I face blocks and barriers, can I pivot in other ways to meet my needs? In realizing I needed to pivot to live into my values and create a space where my ongoing growth is prioritized, I began opening more options to myself. So often continuing the path I’m on “makes sense” when other times it making sense is about complacency gridlocked in fear. The echoing needs ringing out became stronger and my listening became more intent. I’ve learned to lean in, to acknowledge, and validate my values- this is where I thrive. When my needs are louder than my comfort of the knowns, I act courageously. And step by step I walk, timidly, bravely, confidently, and with any emotion my body needs to bring with. I’ve learned to make space for it all- that scared and brave can walk hand in hand together. With each step I developed my focus and plans based on my values- my preferred decision making process- and created a wellspring of growth. Forming a space that prioritizes feelings of safety and security, while emphasizing soothing in the experienced connection within healthy relationship, embraces my passions, professionally and personally, in ways that far exceed the early beginnings of my maybe, someday. The start for me was not simply goal achievement, but has become a healing and growing experience of living into my values and sharing in the compassionate learning adventure.

~Sara Schramer, MA LCPC