“Thank you”-The Most Important Words

Chances are you’re slaving your life over this exam. You have your head in the books, you’re studying with your groups, you’re taking exams… you’re doing it all. But here’s the thing: chances are, you’re not alone.

You might have studied with other people.

You might have learned a few concepts through some of the Zooms hosted by the Rogue Girls.

You might have gotten clarification on a question or a topic from somebody.

You might have asked for feedback on something.

You might have nailed exams, the BCBA exam included.

Let’s not neglect what you’ve likely sacrificed…

You might have had someone help you around the house while you were studying.

You might have had someone to watch your kids.

You might have had to give up social events until you were done with this exam.

You might have had someone give you a pep talk when you felt hopeless.

You might have had someone treat you to something.

“Thank you” — it’s a phrase that we commonly say, but even through this exam journey, it’s just as vital.

Personally speaking, I have many people to thank. I can’t thank all of my study partners enough for letting me rattle their ear off with some of my knowledge. I can’t thank Sarah, Corrie, and Lindsey for all of their help. I can’t thank Corrie enough for giving me a pep talk when I desperately needed to hear something positive. I can’t thank all of my Behavior Bosses/Rogue ABA family enough for believing in me and for sticking by me through this journey.

But the number one person for me, is my mom.

My mom helped me out so much during this journey. She didn’t get upset when I would leave laundry and not clean up. She helped me take care of Milo on numerous occasions so I could host or participate in Zooms. She cheered me on. But most importantly, she never allowed me to give up.

At one point I was ready to give up, and she told me “What will that do? Nothing.” She cheered me on and reminded me that I can make it. A few days prior to the exam, she told me “I know you have this”. And it felt so good to hear those words.

Even though I passed based off of my own knowledge, I couldn’t have done every little thing by myself.

I’m going to give you all a challenge: if you are currently studying for the exam, I want you to write a quick thank you note. It can be to one person, it can be to many, it can be to a company, doesn’t matter. Explain what they did to help you on your journey to becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Send it to them. Who knows? It just might make their day a little brighter.

All My Love,

Michelle