I am sitting for the Spring CAP exam, and can't really explain why. I attended the IAAP Symposium last year, and felt as if it shook me awake. Beginning the certification process is something that just "happened", and I'm only trying to keep up with it! Every time I'm in the Study Guide, I have to fight feelings of "OMYGOSHWHATHAVEIGOTTENMYSELFINTO!" and remember that: the exam is months away, God wouldn't have led me to this if He didn't believe in me, I've always loved learning, and I could probably stand to have a good challenge (it's been awhile)! Yes, it's a daunting task...yes, I feel overwhelmed sometimes...BUT...won't it feel good to accomplish something?..to learn things that enhance my performance and simplify my job?...won't it feel great to become more "me"?!

Congratulations, Linda, for taking this next step in your personal and professional development. You're doing the right thing by joining a study group to help you prepare. Best wishes with your studies. We can't wait to celebrate your success with you once you're earned those letters behind your name!

Linda, I can totally understand where you are coming from. When I studied and took the CAP and OM, I did it to challenge myself...not because of a job or a job prospect. Find some great study mates and come up with ingenious ways to memorize the hard things. You can do it! After all, it's that first step that's the hardest and you've already taken it! Never stop learning.

The light blub moment is exciting.  Congrats on taking the leap toward your certification.

You will learn that you know more than you think you do. Going through the experience is wonderful in that you learn things about yourself. There is no fail in this process, just the opportunity to learn and we all learn at different levels. The best words of wisdom I can offer come from a high school drama teacher. He said if you learn something you never forget it; if you memorize you will forget it as soon as you no longer need it. Go out there and learn lessons you will keep for a lifetime.

You CAN do this & obtain the awesome moment of joining us CAP holders! Ask your questions. Let us help you achieve this differential.

It can be a bit overwhelming, but it's also an exciting journey. You have lots of company and guidance on this journey. You are going to be just fine. I have faith in you!!!

Linda, I’m so excited that you decided to take this step in pursuing your CAP credentials as a personal and professional development goal. I’m glad my conversation with you about CAP did not scare you away, and it is very gratifying as a colleague that you set out to accomplished this goal. I believe we have two more co-workers testing this year, so I’m over the moon about that. Marie is very thorough in her study groups in preparing everyone for the exam, so you are in good hands. I’m just a hallway away if you need any help. 🙂

You go girl!

THANK YOU for all the encouragement! :-)