Your very first day of graduate school, you likely didn’t know much about being a therapist (if you’re like me, you probably thought you did and then learned that you actually didn’t…) Running your own private practice or mental health agency is similar.
I’ve worked with so many clients who assume that they should already know the ins and outs of being an effective leader or business owner. And then they are super critical of themselves when they don’t. But the reality of the situation is that you probably haven’t spent much time building your leadership skills or your business skills. And that’s okay. It doesn’t have to be hard. Setting goals, developing systems and processes, and turning to your support network are great first steps to help make your life easier (check out this blog post to help you learn how to do that).
This blog post focuses on one simple yet important life hack… you’re never done learning!
Life Hack
Remember that you’re always learning
We put so much pressure on ourselves when we step into the role of Business Owner, but the learning curve is constant. There will never be a time when you know everything. I know you already know that, but sometimes it’s still helpful to hear it.
So what does it mean to be “always learning”? Well, here’s what it means to me:
You accept that you don’t know everything (which can be humbling).
You learn to recognize what you don’t know and get comfortable asking for help (which can make you feel a little vulnerable).
You appreciate that every mistake is an opportunity to learn (which can be frustrating in the moment but helpful in the long run).
You recognize that everyday, you will have the chance to practice your business and leadership skills… and that some days you’ll sink and some days you’ll swim, and that’s okay (which means you’re human).
You look to others for guidance and seek out experts when you are struggling (which can feel intimidating, but also might be exactly what you need).
You embrace your *flawsomeness and stop shaming, blaming, and kicking yourself when you’re already down (which can be empowering).
You own your limitations and delegate tasks that are barriers to your success (which can feel ah-mazing!).
You treat your practice like a real business and treat yourself like a true CEO, boundaries and all… (which can be help ensure your most valuable resource (you!) is sustainable).
You acknowledge that running a private practice takes more than your superb clinical skills and you get connected with helpful resources (which can be a huge relief).
You challenge yourself to embrace a growth mindset and stretch 20%-40% outside of your comfort zone as a business owner (which can be exciting).
If you want some help embracing the learning curve that comes with leading your private practice, reach out and set up a complimentary consultation with me. I’d love to see how I can support you and help you make your practice thrive.
*Flawsome image taken from Instagram: