“Workin’ 9 to 5, what a way to make a living…”
Do you ever feel like the lyrics to Dolly Parton’s classic song “9 to 5” are a distant dream when you think about your private practice? Have you, like me, been told that success in private practice means working nights and weekends, essentially working all the time? Well, let me save you some aggravation because I used to believe that too, about 25 years ago.
The Myth: You Must Work Nights and Weekends to Succeed in Private Practice
Back then, I was juggling a demanding job at a locked residential treatment center and providing outpatient counseling through a local non-profit to supplement my income. My days started at 7 am and often didn’t end until after 9 pm. 🕘
“Barely gettin’ by, it’s all takin’ and no givin’…”
I believed the myth that the only way to make a name for myself professionally and support my family was to work incessantly. After all, that’s what society often tells us, right? But what was the reality of my overworked life?
The Reality:
😫 I was living off of fast food: My meals consisted of greasy burgers and fries from the drive-thru, a far cry from the balanced meals I used to enjoy.
😫 I never saw my husband: My relationship suffered because we barely had time for each other.
😫 My wallet was still empty: Despite my grueling schedule, my financial situation hadn’t improved at all.
“They just use your mind, and they never give you credit…”
But then, a question popped into my head: “What if I stopped focusing on meeting the needs of my employers and started focusing on my own vitality?”
The Transformation: Everything Started To Change
“It’s enough to drive you crazy if you let it…”
And that was the turning point. I decided to put myself first, not just in theory, but in practice.
❤️ I identified the kind of clients I am passionate to work with: I realized that by focusing on clients I truly connected with, work became more fulfilling.
💰 I established fees that were reflective of my worth: No more undercharging; I set fees that allowed me to lead the lifestyle my husband and I valued.
🤝 I networked with enthusiastic professionals: I surrounded myself with supportive colleagues who shared my philosophy, and this propelled me toward my goals.
“It’s a rich man’s game, no matter what they call it…”
Within 3 months, my private practice was thriving. I had clients actively working through their issues during business hours, and I was no longer sacrificing dinners with my husband, weekend getaways, or a great night’s sleep.
😄🌆
Conclusion: A Better Way to Succeed
So, if you’re looking to start your journey in private practice, I’m here to tell you that you don’t have to work 24/7 to make it work. Let’s chat, and I’ll show you that it’s possible to build a successful practice without sacrificing your personal life. It’ll be the best time you spend on your career – I promise. 📞
“They let you dream just to watch ’em shatter, you’re just a step on the boss man’s ladder…”
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