Celebrate Every Step

When asked for my biggest piece of advice, it was this: Celebrate. Every. Step.

The journey to RD is TOUGH and I know you guys are putting everything you have into it. And good for you! Regardless of your outcome though, please, please, acknowledge how much effort you've put into this. You are rock stars. And I hope you treat yourselves like it!

Do something for you this week - whatever you may have pushed aside while you were pouring hours into applications. For me, my 'celebrations' included taking long walks, having a glass of wine with a movie, and journaling. So when I say celebrate, I don't mean you need to throw a party. Though if that's what you feel like you deserve and need, then go for it!

What I experienced after completing my applications to dietetic practicum and masters programs was interesting. A weight was lifted. I guess I almost expected the anxiety to continue after submission, and to be bombarded with thoughts of the status of my applications, wondering when I would hear back, and even worse - if I would hear back. But you know what? It wasn't like that at all. I felt like I just ran a marathon. I felt a huge weight lift and I could breathe, and sleep, and was genuinely happy.

I think the reason I felt like that is because I had honestly done my 100% best. I felt like the hard part was over and I freaking killed it. Was I sure I was going to be successful? Of course not. But I was damn sure I put my blood, sweat, and tears into those applications and the rest was out of my hands. The rest was somebody else's problem - my work here was done.

I really do hope that others experience that same feeling of relief, but if not, I certainly understand the alternative. My wish to you is that if you are feeling anxious about the upcoming results, you remind yourself that your work here is done, and you put your all into it. Good on ya!!!

Wanna know a secret? When I started to realize how important it was to acknowledge all my work and celebrate myself, I blew up balloons and pinned them around my room. Hilarious. At 23 years old, nothing made me happier than waking up every day and feeling like it was my 6th birthday. So whatever it takes for you to celebrate yourself, put a smile on your face, and put you at ease - do it!

XOX
Acacia