My primary idea of success is using the skills and talents I have developed over the course of my career, to share information and support with women in transition. Success, for me, would be the ability to contribute something meaningful to women who struggle with the issues we all face. I feel I would be an effective Women's Counselor, working out of my home, and setting my own schedule. I also relish the idea of having time at home to pursue more creative activities in addition to earning the money I need. Retirement from a lifelong job as insurance administrator is in my near future. In order to work toward the goal of becoming a counselor, there are several steps I need to consider.

             Logistics: During the last two years at my job as an insurance administrator, I plan to request a flexible work schedule that will allow me to work four days a week. I will initially structure my new work schedule around two classes at the local college. These two courses will allow me to meet my state's counseling certification requirements. My focus will include women's relationship, career and general mental health issues. If necessary, I will schedule my college courses for the evening, and spend my day off studying and writing. .

             When I have met the state's certification requirements, which should take approximately one year, I will continue on my flex schedule, and proceed to prepare a space in my home, where I can assure the privacy of my clients. I will apply for a DBA, arrange for office equipment and furnish a room in my home that has a separate entrance. During this period I will need to prepare a set of books, systems for record keeping, tax planning and investing, business cards and a website. I will be contacting insurance companies to learn about plans under which my services would be covered. I also plan to spend some time with another woman in a nearby town who offers similar services, and ask her to mentor me for a period of time.