Have you ever been in the middle of a really big project, a lifelong dream, something you are dedicating every waking moment to achieving and then realize- you know what would be even more amazing than this one massive goal...? Two! Ha!

This is exactly what Dr. Melanie Stewart did while she was completing chiropractic college. Realizing in her fourth year she had a bit more free time, she decided to take on the massage therapy diploma program and complete the board exams. When I first met her and she explained this to me, my jaw dropped. She assured me "it wasn't that bad" but, I couldn't imagine taking on the workload and exams required for both programs. 

I do understand the feeling of actively seeking purpose, keeping busy while continuing to learn and grow. When I finished massage school and I was waiting for my board exam results. After being in class, student clinic and studying with every spare moment I had for 18 months straight suddenly- nothing. I couldn't just sit around for a few months so I decided to go for my Pilates mat training and I also worked part-time with a family business. Even today, I have full-time massage hours and a full-time Pilates schedule. To be honest, I still have time to spare and that is where I enjoy creating the podcast and dreaming up new projects. It is one of the perks of our profession that our "full-time" hours leave us with extra time to pursue hobbies, build relationships, or even study for another career. Melanie sums it up nicely.

“I don’t think if you want to be successful that you can be passive.”  

That's the truth! Life is busy and your dreams aren't just going to land in your lap. Being active in the pursuit of your goals, even small steps or following a hint of curiosity can lead to big places!

Are you feeling like work is consuming your life and you couldn't possibly take on another task- even one that may bring you immense joy or take you to a new place in your practice? I want to help you not only make a living but, also to have a life! Ask me how.

- Krista 
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If you're interested in learning the right way to manage tasks and relationships, building your dream and play on your strengths, listen to this weeks episode of The Radical RMT with Dr. Melanie Stewart.  

The longest time I have spent away from my massage practice was approximately three weeks when I volunteered to be part of the support crew for team Xstrata in The Race Across America. I knew it was a once in a lifetime adventure that I couldn't pass up, and I enjoyed every minute of the experience! But, as a self-employed massage therapist, if I wasn't working, I wasn't getting paid. 

Does that last sentence resonate with you? Have you held out on vacations or missed opportunities because you were worried about the loss of income? 

When I recently met with Arlene Keith (formerly Doyle), an RMT of 38 years, she explained how she travels for months at a time and maintains a supportive massage practice. What advice would she give to those who are self-employed and hesitate to take more time off? “You can’t add up how much money you're losing for traveling”
I admit that the loss of income is a factor I struggle with when taking time off. However, over the years with planning and preparation- sometimes a bit of hustle afterward, it can all work itself out! Ask me how.

The truth is that we need to take time off for our own well-being, which Arlene also explains in this episode. 

I hope that you will consider the cost benefits of taking time off and make a plan for yourself to do so. 

Most people won’t because it’s easier not to. Are you most people?

- Krista 

P.S. If you're interested in learning ways you can travel long term and have a successful massage practice, listen to episode #007 of The Radical RMT with Arlene Keith.  

P.P.S. Start small, learn a few ways you can take time off without the stress of losing income. Check out this article.