To those of you who do not know me, hello. To those who do...hello yet again! Even though I would to proclaim to the world that I am a princess, I am simply a commoner who lives among everyone else in the kingdom of Knoxville, TN.
I am Andrea and I am currently recovering from a life of stress, determination, overworking, overacheiving, and living for the job I had working at a residential psychiatric treatment facility for kids. I have since parted ways with that part of who I used to be in pursuit of something to make this life as enjoyable as it used to be. When I truly felt that I could help those around me.
I have an Associate's degree in Vocal Performance from a small college in Tennessee. I also acquired my Bachelor's degree from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville in the area of Psychology. I did begin Master's level training in Mental Health Counseling at the University of Tennessee, but late into my second year I realized that I did not want to be what I was being trained to do. So, I withdrew from classes and delved into work at the facility I mentioned above. It was wonderful....until it wasn't anymore. I had become frustrated with "the system" of things in this profession and decided to leave that job on July 13th.
Since that last day and after saying goodbye to all of my clients, friends, co-workers, and so many who touched my life, I found it incredibly challenging and difficult to relax. My boyfriend, Mike, is wonderful and was extremely supportive when I told him I was considering leaving my stressful, emotionally draining job. He has assumed a lot of the responsibility of financial burdens and does not mind. This generosity of his character and telling me how he is glad that I can take some time off because he knows what a hard worker I am makes me realize that I never gave myself enough credit for the things I have accomplished in my life. What a wonderfully rare and extremely amazing opportunity I have at this time in my life. I am, for the very first time in my entire life, able to sit and relax!
I consider myself extremely lucky and fortunate woman who now has a new perspective on how I want to live my life. I want to be calm, inspired, free spirited, helpful, and loveable. And I am realizing that I cannot be any of those things if I am so stressed that I can't leave my work at work and while I am at home learn to relax and take care of myself...
Take care, come back, and read some more when I post more. I will be updating as much as possible. Thanks for reading! :)
