Wow! What a way to make a first impression. First day of practicum and I show up without my computer – just me and a water bottle. What was I thinking? Was I even thinking that morning as I was getting ready to start my first day? I know I was feeling overwhelmed, nervous and anxious…however, I know I’m more professional than how I showed up that first day.
Being an ‘older’ student, along with family obligations and home responsibilities, and being present for my children, making mistakes is part of life – we learn from them; we adjust; we keep going.
Once I arrived at my practicum placement, observing my first few sessions, I couldn’t stay focused. I couldn’t possibly admit this to anyone because, as a student, you are taught to BE PRESENT during sessions!?? All I could think about was…. how am I going to do this? Did school courses prepare me enough for what I am about to embark on? Do I have enough experience and knowledge and grit that will benefit my clients. I went home that first day and sat outside, in the sunshine, along with my anxious /mixed emotions and just sighed. With the sunshine on my face, giving gratitude that I completed my first day as a practicum student, I just breathed! Self-compassion is something that is echoed throughout the Master’s program, and that is exactly what I had to embrace – self compassion / self-love and just breathe. Everything will be ok.
Wanda Piwek