Overwhelmed

I've spent some time this week starting to go through all the resources I have regarding starting a private practice.  I have met some wonderful colleagues who have been more than gracious in sharing advice and encouragement.  Nat Mullis, Kimberly Sena Moore and Cathy Knoll have gone above and beyond with sharing their wisdom, and I am very grateful!

However, the feeling of being completely overwhelmed is kicking in.  I know I can do this.  I know I can't do it alone, but I know that I can do it.  I've reached a place in my life where I have to trust God more than I ever have before.  And it's scary.  But I know I'm in the best Hands I could possibly be in.

But I'm still overwhelmed.  And I know that I'm trying to do a lot all at the same time.  Grad  school...need to work on those applications, study for and take the GRE and figure out student loans and financial aid.  Moving...truly out on my own for the first time ever, finding a place to live, figuring out how to pay for the important things like food (cause this girl likes to eat).  Pay off some debt...figuring out how to get as much paid off as I can so I can start off on the right foot and not have to worry.  Starting a private practice...figuring out the details, finances and making a business plan.  My last few months at my current job...writing, producing and directing a musical for my final play, classes and sessions, talent shows, getting ready to say goodbye to residents who have become family and all the normal stresses of the job.  And I'm having issues sleeping.  I always have sleeping problems when I'm getting ready for a big event or something is bothering me.  Well, this is a series of big events all happening at one time...so sleep is not my friend right now.  But I'll make it...

I am encouraged to know that I'm not the first person to go through these kinds of big changes all at once.  The cool thing about our little community of music therapists is that most of us are caring by nature...that is part of what makes us good therapists and why a lot of us chose to go into this profession.  And we have each others' backs.  I have seen so much evidence of this over the past few months.  When one person publishes an article or blog or book, we are all supportive.  When someone starts a new practice, we are all encouraging.  When one of us has a question and posts it on Twitter or Facebook, within minutes others share an answer or opinion.  We all genuinely care about each other and about the profession we all love.  And that is a great thing!

On a good note...after reading Nat's blog on starting a business, I immediately looked up the Small Business Administration and found out that they are providing a free seminar in my area in a few weeks.  So I'm on my way!  While I know this is going to be a difficult journey and I'm sure I'll gain a few gray hairs along the way, I know that this is going to be one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.  And I have a peace that I'm on the right road.

Now if I can just figure out how to get some sleep....