Back to education and pretty nervous.....

[dillinger]

Ive got 2 young children (ds 2.4 and dd 7 weeks) and wanted to train as a Reflexologist for a few years now but not been able to due to finances, childcare etc Im now in a position to start training this september.

I know its what I want and that Id kick myself if I gave up the opportunity again - about 5 years ago I enrolled on a full time complimentary therapies course but didnt finish it. Regretted that ever since esp since having children I couldnt do a full time course anymore. I just suffer badly with nerves and low self esteem, and Im conscious of how I blush, have panic attacks etc Ive had a lot of things pass me by because of that. I managed to pass my driving test just before I had my daughter which felt like a huge achievement and I think its shown me that I can do things if I try hard enough.

I turned 26 this month and decided its time to grow up and stop pissing about. I want to feel like an adult, to stop relying on dp all the time and also do something for me. I want to end up with a job that I enjoy, and to bring home a wage.

I know going through all of the parts of the course that make me worry (like when you have to do consultations etc) will all be so worth it in the end I just need to learn to stop putting myself off things.

So the course - I was going to enrol at college but discovered Id prefer to have completed an AoR accredited course, so have been corresponding with someone who works at a reflexology clinic that teaches an accredited course. It sounds like it would suit me better - being a purely reflexology centred place, small tutor groups etc I think I would also get the support I need. It sounds like a very supportive and friendly place and Im hoping to visit it soon and have a look around etc

Im quite sure Im decided on going for this but its very difficult to be completely sure when youre so used to that part of you telling you not to bother cos youre crap anyway, iyswim.

Sometimes I picture me having achieved it, and the confidence Id gained alongside it, other times I just think I wouldnt be able to manage it - lack of motivation or whatever.

Sorry for long post, Im a bit all over the place! Half incredibly excited, half petrified!

If Im feeling particularly lacking in self belief I tell myself itll cost too much, its too much to waste when I inevitably drop out, etc etc When I know its a small price to pay in the long run and not much more than what Id pay if I went to a college near me.

Just me trying to come up with excuses isnt it. Surprising just how good you can get at talking yourself out of things!

Bit late...but go for it....like you say you would regrett not too!

I did my nursing when younger, after a long break I could not face to return into nursing and have decided that I will do something I had my eye on for a few years...I will start my degree to become an occupational Therapist in September....I can't wait...but I am under no illusion that it will be easy...what with 3 children and a husband and little things like that...but it will be so worth it!

26 isn't too late at all, in fact it's young compared to others who change career paths late in life - you've decided what you want to do, and you've got other things sorted. I'm sure you'll make a great success of it. It sounds good to have the smaller groups for support, keep in touch with your trainers even when you're feeling low in confidence, it's a normal part of the process. Good luck with it!