When I was 36, I had a dream to live in the mountains of New Mexico, in a good career, with a healthy life-style. I interviewed for several low-paying Social Work jobs with the state of New Mexico, but didn’t take them; I had a good job in Dallas, Texas, and was determined to maintain, or increase my standard of living. Rule #!: Set a Goal and Don’t Waver.
           Rina, the EAP (Employee Assistance Program) Coordinator, and I were eating lunch in the cafeteria. “I’ve been tearing out my hair, trying to find someone to work in the EAP program at Sandia Labs in Albuquerque. We’ve made a national search, and they’re not happy with anyone we’ve presented to them,” she whined.
           My eyes flew open. “Rina, you know I’ve been trying to move out there. I’ve got to have that job!” Rule #2: Recognize the Opportunity.
           “Well, they’re looking for someone with EAP experience, but send in your application.” I had not really done counseling in a work place environment before, but, as part of my current position, had provided some employee counseling by phone. I was not going to let my lack of experience, nor her tentative attitude deter me from my goals. Rule #3: Don’t Listen to Others’ Doubts.
           I knew if I believed I could get the job, and if I took appropriate action to get the job, I could get the job. I also knew that someone was going to get the job, and that someone might as well be me. I visualized myself working at Sandia Labs. I visualized myself there, in my office, wearing corporate attire, and talking to employees. Rule #4: Visualize Yourself Already having Achieved the Goal.
           I also did my homework. I studied about EAPs and workplace counseling, I studied about the culture at Sandia Labs, I studied the differences of the various native American and Hispanic cultures in New Mexico, and I scripted an employee workplace presentation. I interviewed in my home office, I interviewed by phone with the California office, and I flew to Albuquerque. Once there, I interviewed with the Psychologist and EAP Manager, with the Medical Director in attendance by phone. I jumped through every hoop, and despite my youth and inexperience, landed the job. Within two weeks, I was living in New Mexico, hiking in the mountains! Rule #5: Take Practical Action, and Rule #6: Receive and Celebrate!

Maribeth Theisen, LCSW, offers Counseling, Hypnotherapy, EMDR, PSYCH-K, NLP and other methods to help you realize your dreams. Call her at 269-2923 or visit www.MauiTransformations.com.