From Beginner to Expert: My Experience with SoMAP

In June 2022, I embarked on a growth journey within Achology by diving into the CPD program, a decision that would shape the trajectory of my career in ways I did not foresee. At that point, I was already making strides in the skilled helping industry, but little did I know how this structured and comprehensive professional development program would propel my initiative to new heights.

The initial stages of my new career pursuits were marked by progress, but I sensed the need for a more refined skill set to make an impact. Enter the SoMAP CPD journey, a path that not only honed my facilitating skills but also provided me with a platform to host online training. This allowed me to extend my influence beyond my immediate clientele and support fellow members in engaging with the diverse offerings within the Achology community.

One of the most profound aspects of the CPD journey is the sense of community it fosters. In celebrating the progress of my peers and witnessing the effort they put into their respective areas, I developed a deeper connection with the community. The camaraderie and shared commitment to personal and professional growth were palpable, creating an environment where success becomes a collective effort. This sense of belonging became a driving force in my journey, pushing me to elevate my own standards and contribute even more meaningfully to the Achology community.

The CPD journey, with its SoMAP requirements, was a testament to the commitment required for mastery. Achieving and exceeding the status of a master achologist demanded an impressive number of client hours, highlighting that this was not a mere formality but a substantial challenge. It required determination, consistency, and perseverance – qualities that not only shaped my professional journey but also became integral to my personal growth.

As I navigated through the challenges of the CPD journey, my coaching business became a reflection of the principles I was learning and applying. Working predominantly with ex-forces and public services personnel around trauma, my message evolved to champion the belief that self-awareness precedes inner strength and personal resilience. Every aspect of my business – from the content on my website to the strategies employed in client sessions – underwent meticulous scrutiny and adjustment through the lens of the Achology principles.

The SoMAP CPD journey wasn’t just about meeting requirements; it was about a profound transformation that touched every facet of my professional life. It became a holistic process of refining my coaching techniques, enhancing my communication skills, and developing a more profound understanding of the human psyche. The journey wasn’t always easy, but the challenges served as stepping stones, pushing me to explore new dimensions of my capabilities.

Beyond the personal growth, the SoMAP CPD journey opened doors to unique opportunities that I hadn’t anticipated. The peer-to-peer applied learning sessions, a crucial part of the journey, facilitated connections and collaborations that enriched my professional network. These interactions not only broadened my perspectives but also presented me with opportunities for collaboration and expansion that might not have materialised otherwise.

The SoMAP CPD journey with Achology has been more than a professional development program; it has been a transformative experience that has shaped me into a more skilled, resilient, and connected professional.

The community, the challenges, and the opportunities have collectively contributed to the success of my coaching initiative. As I reflect on this journey, I am grateful for the growth it has facilitated and excited about the continued evolution of my business, driven by the principles and connections forged in the Achology community.