Pursuing the Passion
“I think the courses I took were subjects I had been interested in for a long time though my fear had stopped me from embarking on re-training. My head was telling me it’s too late, you’re too old, but I just had this realisation one day in lockdown that it’s never too late. To every lie there is a truth and so I looked for the truth in the lies I was telling myself and decided that I had nothing to lose and everything to gain.”
Once Michael knew what he was interested in doing and overcame the barriers he once felt were there, he set about finding a suitable provider to study with.
“I had to take action to make it my reality, so I did the necessary research and made enquiries with a few different companies. I really liked the service I received over the phone from Oxbridge. They answered all my questions clearly and concisely and were extremely friendly and supportive. I think this kind of environment is important when considering how you want to learn.
"I spent much of my twenties wondering why I felt unfulfilled, and I am so grateful to have finally discovered my calling and purpose and these courses have played a massive part in that."
Taking the Time
Michael found that being furloughed meant he was able to study more than he otherwise would’ve been able to, which was of benefit to him.
“I would wake up, meditate and review my to-do list from the night before. I would also start with the task I didn’t want to do and then work down the list in order of priority. I took regular breaks and with each milestone achieved I gave myself a small reward.”
Michael also made sure that he found time to reflect.
“I made sure I went for a walk every evening and wrote gratitude lists every night. I still meditate every day and write gratitude lists now as well. For the line of work I want to get into, I must practise what I preach and having done this I have seen the benefits of doing so for myself, which has allowed me to really believe in them.
“I enjoyed the reflective aspect of counselling, and this is critical I think - not just in this profession but in all aspects of life. I also enjoyed learning about the three main counselling theories and then applying them in the more practical aspects of the course.”
Learning Lots
Michael has found that he learnt a lot from studying the courses.
“The courses I have studied have made me so much more self-aware and provided me with practical tools that I can use myself and can share with others which they will hopefully find beneficial in the ways that I have,” he explains.
“They have given me a broader understanding of the human mind and the law around confidentiality, as well as helping to confirm my passion for this line of work and helping others. It has helped me to better prioritise my time and understand that there are lots of different ways to train your mind positively through meditation, positive self-talk and affirmations to name just a few of many.
“I enjoyed the coaching topics on habit forming and have applied this to my own life and since managed to give up smoking, so that has massive health benefits. I also liked the coursework on my mission statement and my 5-year plan. It allowed me to become clearer on the direction I want to take my life in.”
Supported Through Success
“My tutors were fantastic. Their feedback was supportive and balanced and helped to maximise my learning. It was clear and easy to understand, which allowed me to excel. Their responses were always quick and thorough too.
“I always enjoyed receiving feedback as I firmly believe that this is what allows us to grow.”
Next Steps
So, what would Michael like to do next?
“I have applied to college to complete my Level 4 counselling next year and I am currently researching where I would like to do my life coaching certification.”
Some Sage Advice
So, what would Michael’s advice for others be?
“Don’t allow your fear to stop you is the first thing I would say,” advises Michael.
“Beyond this, prioritise your time, be open to feedback, if you fail on an assignment first time, don’t give up trying and if you’re unsure on anything, ask for help.
“I thoroughly enjoyed my learning journey with Oxbridge and I am sure you will too. I would like to wish you the very best of luck and every success whatever you decide to do.“