Our Chapter VP Communications, Nupur Singh, asked Alyce Parsons, AICI CIP if she would share the thoughts she would tell her younger self. These thoughts were published in our Chapter newsletter and are shared here.
Alyce Parsons, AICI CIP
Dear Young Alyson,
Looking back from the vantage point of almost 40 years in the image consulting profession, I have a great deal to tell you. When you grow up, be thankful for the courage you display. You will be one of the founders and so always continue in this wonderful profession. You would have seen it grow from the first San Francisco chapter to a world wide organization. Image Consulting affords us a great opportunity to affect our clients in such a positive way. By working with people’s outer appearance, we affect their inner being, self-concept and motivate them to be the best they can be.
Thirty years later, you will write an article for the International Newsletter titled, “Image Consulting- a Nobel Profession”. In that article, you will tell the world that image consultants wear three hats. First, we are consultants solving a problem. Second, we are teachers providing the answers to what they need to know. Third, we are therapists/coaches motivating people to understand themselves and live into their highest potential. The next thing I would tell you, is to preserve and not give up if this is your dream.
Have faith and trust in your ability to get the education, find right teachers/trainers, circumstances, and specialized area of interest for yourself. Also, find a mentor. It will bring you a long way. Each of us has a unique gift to contribute, and if we do not utilize that gift, we will not recognize that we have it, and most importantly, our gift will not be received by anyone. We must “follow our bliss” and do what we love.
Never forget that it is a crucial to have a work life balance. Realize that every period and decade has its own purpose. You do not want to miss out on what is occurring during that time. You will marry young and have children during that decade, so don’t worry if it takes time to fulfil your dream. The wait will be worth it because the time you spend with your children will be invaluable. There is always time to get into the “passion” of your career whether it be in your forties, fifties or sixties. It is never too late to do what you love.
Regarding balance, it is also important to take care of your physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual needs. All of these will work together to make you a more well rounded and successful image consultant. You will have more to offer your clients from your wholeness. It is vital to find a sense of propose and vitality in every decade of your life. It is also important to keep learning and growing. It keeps us young and interested in the life.
Last but not least, always be grateful. Image consulting will give you untold satisfaction and a true outlet for creativity and purpose.
– Love, the Older Alyson
Comments