We had the good fortune of connecting with Taivia Thompson and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Taivia, can you share the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of your career?
While my business is still new, one of the most important lessons it has taught me thus far is to believe in myself every step of the way. Starting a business takes a lot of courage and maintaining a business takes even more. With each step you take to help your business grow and expand it gets a bit scarier. You may experience lots of doubts and imposter syndrome but you already jumped out there so you might as well keep going. I’ve had times when I’ve felt like doing the easy thing, which was giving up and quitting, but I ultimately decided my dream was not worth throwing away that easily. Every day, I make an effort to keep going because this is what I wanted and what I chose.
Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
Starting my business was far from easy. I got to where I am today from hard work, perseverance, patience and most importantly faith. While I understand everyone may not be a believer in God, my own personal journey to making my business a reality is connected to my faith in God’s plan for me. It was a rocky road for me in the beginning and I experienced a lot of disparity and grief. I lost my job, it took me 5 years to obtain my license to practice independently, the licensing board denied my application over 7 times, I worked many different jobs for long hours being severely underpaid and the list goes on. I feel as though my story is an example of the saying “delayed but not denied” Along the way, I learned to strengthen my faith because I literally had nothing else to rely on. At one point my career hit rock bottom and I have no other moves on my chess board. I listened to God and sought his Guidance on what was next for me, that eventually led me to being in the position to start my own business. What I want people to know most about my story is that no matter where you start in life your ending can still be full of life, love, joy and abundance.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Some of my favorite spots in the city is L.O.A., Blue Restaurant & Lounge, Little Alley Steak & W Hotel Rooftop (Downtown Location). I am sucker for chill vibes, rooftops in the summertime and good food. I think some of the most interesting/exciting places to go in Atlanta would be Ponce City Market, AUC center (more specifically during homecoming season), the Atlanta illuminarium and any food truck festival.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would love to dedicate my shoutout to my tribe. Without them my vision would have never come to life. I am most grateful for my friends, family, colleagues that support my business and my journey. They keep me inspired, uplifted and give me the momentum to wake up every day to continue as my own boss. I want to say thank you for helping me through hardships and tough days. When I think of how far I have come with your help, my heart swells with gratitude. Your kindness and support have touched me in more ways than you can imagine. You’ve been a constant source of comfort and a shoulder to lean on, and I can’t thank you enough.
Website: https://www.millennialcounselingandconsulting.com/
Instagram: TaiTheTherapist
Linkedin: Taivia Thompson, LPC