Almost Done

                Earlier this morning I’ve decided to start working on outlining my requirements management book instead of working on my Nanowrimo because I’ve haven’t focused on my PMI-PBA certification in one week. That’s too long. I have managed to finish outlining chapter 7 along with chapters 8 through 10. I have learned new business analysis terminology and the significant amount of overlap between business analysis and project management. I will finish chapter 11 later today and the appendix containing sample plans over this weekend. It’s great to feel like I’m seeing the finish line within sight. This bolsters my motivation to keep persevering until I finish outlining the book and passing the PMI-PBA certification.

Back at It!

                Although my body felt lethargic, I was back at outlining the requirements management book to pass the PMI-PBA exam. I am determined regardless of how I feel at the moment to earn my third certification. I’ve heard uneven routines = uneven results. This has jolted me back into action. Today I am on chapter 7 and by tonight I will be on chapter 9. I will complete the book by Monday which is an accomplishment because this is my second business analysis book that I have read. I have some significant skin in the game regarding this PMI-PBA certification. I have put in some serious work towards this. I have learned so more vocabulary words which will aid me on the exam. After finishing the first read, I will reread the book this time using my highlighter.

This week I will take the drill and the 100-problem practice exam upon completing the book. It is high time that I start regularly doing the online practice tests because the PMI-PBA is online. I have to stop fearing being wrong. I need to get as many looks as possible. I know that the more problems I solve the higher my score will be. There is still a whole lot of time left this month to earn my PMI-PBA certification.

Building PMI-PBA Test Stamina

                Having completed requirements management chapter 6, I am more than halfway done with this book. Finally, I am seeing the light at the end of the tunnel and fully believe that I will finish outlining all eleven chapters. I will devote the weekend towards reviewing the case study and taking a 100-problem practice exam this time. It is all about reclaiming my momentum since I’ve stopped studying during the midterm election. Now that I am back, I am ready to read the material and measure my progress. This measurement includes increasing the number of questions. Since the actual test is 200 problems, it’s time to increase the number of questions. I must build up my stamina to sit for the real exam. Next week I will take my first 200-problem practice exam to evaluate my progress. Regardless of the results (and I am hoping for a minimum score of 70%), it is important that I get started. Furthermore, I will keep taking 200-problem exams the rest of the way because it is all about getting as many looks as possible. I am thinking that the drills and practice exams come from the same test bank so at some point I will see the same question. The bigger issue for me is to see patterns. If I am struggling in a particular domain then I will consider taking a 50-problem drill in addition to the 200-problem practice exam. Starting with the 100-problem practice exam this week and building up to the 200-problem practice exam next week will give me enough ‘looks’ to determine if I am ready to sit for the exam this December. 

Franchise > Certification Studies This Week

                 I have delayed my PMI-PBA certification studies because of this midterm election. Franchise > Certification. Many people have died for my right to vote. I just want Election Day to be over with due to all of this mess going on. 

PMI-PBA and Self-Investment

                I am happy to have purchased my Watermark Learning requirements management book because I have learned so much from just two chapters. I know that I will pass the PMI-PBA exam immediately after finishing this book. It should take no longer than one week. Afterward I will retake my traceability & monitoring drill and another 50-question practice exam. In addition, today I will outline BABOK chapter 3: elicitation because I will master all of the business analysis concepts. Furthermore, I guess I am happier that I am investing in myself and my future. I will not only be able to earn my PMI-PBA certification but increase my income. 

This Week in PMI-PBA Studies

                This week I will be doing something every day towards working closer towards my PMI-PBA certification. I will continue outlining PMBOK chapter 5 and BABOK chapter 6, take the RMC chapter 5 knowledge area quiz, another Watermark Learning PMI-PBA traceability & monitoring drill after outlining BABOK chapter 6, and a 100-question practice PMI-PBA exam. Furthermore, I will look at what the PMI-PBA LinkedIn study group feedback is once PMI makes the test scores available. I will learn from their mistakes and recalibrate my studies in order to better prepare. Moreover, this is the week before PMI publishes its own Business Analysis Practice Guide which will be available online October 28^th. I am working this week on positioning myself towards improving my PMI-PBA traceability knowledge and overall score by the time this PMI publication gets released. 

Okay So I Piss Someone Off

                 A week ago I went to a graduate economics info session. I was interested in returning to earn my graduate Applied Economics program. I was disrupted twice in my pursuit and now that things were stabilizing, I decided to try it again. During the info session, I asked about transferring my credits from another school. I caught the program director off guard because he was never asked that question. The graduate economics program was founded in 2012; however, I was going to ask because it was an accredited school so it should accept transfer credit. Okay so I annoyed him. Whatever because it let me score a private telephone discussion. I submitted my graduate transcript. Although the director said that I had to retake the courses because they were Bs instead of As, I felt great to ask about transfer credit especially as a woman because society told us not to be confrontational; but, if getting out of 2 courses and saving $5500 were the end results then I’d rather piss people off to save money. It is my life and my money!

This Week in PMI-PBA Certification Study

                 I have made significant PMI-PBA progress. I have outlined BABOK chapter 4 and taken my first traceability & monitoring drill. I am glad that I have done this because the drill has forced me review BABOK chapter 4 and pay more attention to BABOK chapter 6 and PMBOK chapter 11. Having earned my PMP certification using PMBOK fourth edition instead of the fifth edition, I am unfamiliar with the new edition. I must master this PMBOK fifth edition to pass the exam. I will write down PMBOK page 61 twice a day plus write down all of the chapter 11 risk management processes.

                The next week is essential towards preparing the October 28^th Business Analysis Practice Guide publication. I will finish outlining BABOK chapter 6, PMBOK chapter 11 and take another traceability & monitoring drill plus another practice exam. When October 28^th rolls around, I will be well-positioned to incorporate the practice guide and pass the PMI-PBA exam the first time.

Pushing Ahead with my PMI-PBA Studies

                Yesterday I completely outlining my Business Analyst’s Mentor Book that I purchased from Amazon last Monday. It was a milestone because before then I would stop and start reading BABOK and my other business analysis book; however, I stuck with it. During this past week I learned more concepts and vocabulary words that would help me pass the PMI-PBA exam the first time. I also wrote down entire BABOK definitions to ensure that I fully understood everything I read. Rewriting some of these definitions down multiple times helped absorb their meanings. It wasn’t just okay that was a requirement but I understood which sequence that requirement was in. Throughout this process I developed the requisite endurance to spend 3-4 hours daily towards highlighting BABOK chapters 4 and 6 this week. Once I completely highlight them, I will take another Watermark Learning requirements traceability and monitoring practice drill and another PMI-PBA 50-question practice exam. I do feel that by the end of this week my online practice drill and exam scores will increase by 15 points and I will start reading my other business analysis book. 

PMI-PBA Self-Investment and Learning that PMI Will Publish a Business Analysis Practice Guide

                Buying the Business Analyst’s Mentor Book is my best PMI-PBA investment thus far because it deciphers all of the business analysis jargon into understandable concepts. I have read 41 pages. Even though I am resting my fingers, I do see myself completing another 41 pages tomorrow and finishing the book by Wednesday when my physical book arrives.  When I get the physical book, I will reread the book and write down anything this is new. I might even write down BABOK definitions to incorporate the formal business lexicon that is on the PMI-PBA exam.  I know that this Handbook will increase my PMI-PBA online exam score. This week when I take another 50-question practice exam, I will score over 75%.  I have to because I am working on improving my scores.

                Furthermore, I have learned through my LinkedIn PMI-PBA study group that PMI will publish its Business Analysis Practice Guide online on October 28^th.  It’ll be free. In between now and then, I will read Business Analyst’s Mentor Book, BABOK, and PMBOK chapters 5, 6, 8, 10, 13. I am will be well-read and prepared to read the PMI guide. I know that following this plan gives me a very good chance of passing the PMI-PBA exam the first time.

PMI-PBA Weekly Progress

                This week I will improve my PMI-PBA exam score by reading BABOK chapter 4 and taking two traceability and monitoring drills. I have scored 25% in this domain which is completely unacceptable. By next Sunday, my traceability and monitoring score will move up to 62% (61% is the minimum passage rate). These two drills give me more practice to see more exam-related questions. I know that I am capable of passing the PMI-PBA on the first try. I have passed the PMP the first time. I am happy to have purchased the PMI-PBA online exam simulation instead of cross-referencing the CBAP practice exam because the former has shown me my weak areas. I am no longer walking around blind anymore because I know how to address my weaknesses. That’s the one thing I don’t want to do when I walk into Prometric this fall and take the PMI-PBA exam.

                The PMI-PBA certification affords me more cross-disciplinary opportunities out there. I have received a phone interview for an adjunct position. The college combined its economics and business administration departments. This benefits me because I have economics and business administration degrees. Also the PMI-PBA can fill the void because this is a small private college which does not have anyone who can merge the two disciplines. Obtaining the PMI-PBA certification not only bridges the gap but makes me indispensable. I love teaching because I get to communicate and share ideas and information. This motivates me to earn my PMI-PBA.

My Brownies Are Finally On the Right Side of History!

                I am so happy that the Cleveland Browns have won today especially after starting 28-3. My Brownies have managed to come back from 25 down to win the game 29-28 making history in the process. This is the first time in NFL history that an away team has rallied from 25 down to win a game. Finally, my Brownies are on the right side of NFL history!

Summoning the Strength to Review My First PMI-PBA Online Exam Results

                I have summoned the strength to rise above my muscular soreness to start writing down all of my PMI-PBA online exam wrong answers. Writing them down by hand makes me reread the questions and understand the reasons behind the right answers. I also have discovered that I need to learn more of the business analysis terminology and reread PMBOK fifth edition chapters 5, 6, 8, 10 and 13. In a LinkedIn PMI-PBA preparation group most test takers say that they’ve studied chapters 5 (scope management), 8 (quality management) and 13 (stakeholder management). However, while doing the online test, I’ve noticed the importance of chapters 6 (time management) and 10 (communications management). I will also rewrite PMBOK page 61 every single morning to get back into the habit of remembering each process and their interdependencies. I am intent on scoring above 62% on my next online practice exam and over 80% on my final PMI-PBA exam.

Technical Difficulties

                I awoke hungry and jetted to the DuPont doughnut spot because Google said that it was opened until 2am. Wrong! It closed at 12am because it was Wednesday L. You meant that I walked down N street with crazy people cursing each other out for a closed restaurant? I huffed all the way to the 24-hour CVS got food and returned back home. Sheesh! 

Getting All of the Fear of Failure Out of the Way

                 I scored 72.72% (16 out of 22) on the RMC CBAP/CCBA exam prep chapter 3 today. I took it cold without reading the chapter. I just wanted a baseline to see how well I would do. There was so much overlap between project management and business analysis. Although they had different terminologies, I understood most of the concepts. Given that 61% was the PMI-PBA passage rate (I was using the CBAP exam prep book since the PMI-PBA certification exam was new and there weren’t any prep materials), I knew that I would pass the exam the first time.   I also stopped fearing failing the exam because it was unknown. I just took a stab at it and what did I know: I scored 72%! Scoring that high also helped me decide that earning my PMI-PBA first ahead of my PMI-ACP would had been a way better move. 

Cleaning My Plate and Clearing My Mind

                Internally I have been thinking about going for my PMI-ACP and PMI-PBA certifications. I am actively looking for a new opportunity but the feelings are so strong. I just want to clear my plate. Getting these two certifications free up a lot of mental space in my head. The PMI-ACP goal has been stuck in my brain since 2012 and the PMI-PBA goal has been stuck in my brain since May 2014. Earning these two certifications increase my earning potential. I need them gone right now to go onto bigger and better things. 

Staying Started

                Everyone talks about getting started but how many people stay started? It’s east to start something new. It’s hard to stay committed throughout the process. When the pursuit isn’t shiny and new, it’s hard to muster enthusiasm doing the rote, mundane tasks. I admit that at times I am guilty of this behavior. Inertia erodes things. I need to stay started instead of staying stagnant. Therefore, I am going for these three things the rest of this year: 1) finding the job that I want; 2) earning my CBAP certification; and, 3) earning my PMI-PBA certification; and, the only way to accomplish these three things are to stay started.

This Will Be a Phenomenal Week

                This week will be phenomenal. I am riding the positive momentum from last week. It feels great to be buoyed professionally. I know that I will build upon it creating something even greater. I am ready for it because I am getting closer to what I really want: more freedom to create the future that I want.

Silent No More

                Until now, I’ve remained silent and others have taken this to their advantage. People have told me to polite, courteous, and ‘to trust the process’. That stops today because I’ve reclaimed my voice. I refuse to let others and my enemies speak for me and write my story. I’m telling my story and my truth. I’m reclaiming my voice and my life. I’m giving life and voice to all of my dreams and aspirations. I have stopped fearing the future and what might happen. I am living in the present, taking each day as it comes and making the most of it. By being present and capitalizing upon all current available opportunities, I will make the future better; and, all of these things start with my declaration of not being silent any more.

A Google Doodle for My Birthday

                How cool is this? I have my own personal Google Doodle for my birthday! Check it out below.

PMI-PBA Certification Pilot Exam Update

This is the final weekend of the PMI-PBA certification pilot exam and I haven’t taken it because it has been chaotic as of lately. I do feel that I will get it done this year regardless of what has been happening to me.  What I have done in the meantime is improving my Excel 2010 and SQL programming skills. I scored 92% on the advanced Excel 2010 final exam and 86% on the Introduction to SQL final exam.  So my time hasn’t been wasted but the PMI-PBA certification has not materialized.  What I have learned is to centralize my focus and write down to do one thing every single day towards the goal.  I know that practicing this will put me farther ahead than now. 

Stop Trying to Make It Perfect

I have delayed posting new posts because I have been trying to make it perfect. Now I will stop this whole paralysis of analysis thing, I will be back soon.

Writing the End to a Story

                In 2014 I have been trying to get into a new phase in life. I have tried accumulating new skills, different industries, I mean everything but I am still stuck. I’ve listened to an empowerment coach’s podcast where the interviewer says to ‘envision the end.’ That’s it. I have been churning along but never truly define what the end (new job) would look like. There is freedom in knowing how it will end because I’ll at least have a roadmap guiding me down the road. Right now I am in the wilderness but describing in detail what the end would look like would be very helpful in me getting over this hump. 

What the PMI-PBA Pilot Deadline Has Taught Me

                I have just completed my PMI-PBA pilot certification Excel verification spreadsheet documenting all of my projects. I am moving on this application faster than my PMI-ACP certification application because the PMI-PBA pilot program has a deadline. It forces me to push through all of the mess that I am dealing with currently. After passing my PMP exam in June, I started studying for the PMI-ACP certification in July. However, with all of the craziness that I experienced for the past 11 months stopped me. There was never a prolonged peaceful time period so I never established a rhythm. This pilot program forced me to keep going regardless of the chaos. Right now the chaos is constant yet the PMI-PBA pilot program deadline is August 4^th. August 4^th is going to come and go whether or not I’ve completed the application or have taken the test. Understanding this, I’ve decided not to let work and people further obstruct me from my certification goal. I will not only submit my PMI-PBA application but will sit for the certification exam and pass it this October. I have bigger dreams and taking the PMI-PBA certification exam is the first step. I will use this experience to prepare for the Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) exam this fall. Furthermore, clearing the PMI-PBA exam liberates my time and energy to revisit the PMI-ACP certification exam with a renewed mentality. By then I will be able to push pass the chaos and confusion and will even be out of my current work environment.

Quick 1st Half of 2014 Assessment

                I must admit that I hadn’t expected to be where I am at today, June 21, 2014. On January 1, 2014, I expected to have my PMI-ACP certification but then PMI announced that it was having a PMI-PBA pilot program. Immediately I jump at the opportunity.  I must also admit that in the past 6 months I have become a Small Business Book Award judge, attended the White House spring garden event snapping photos, and have an article published.  With today being 9 days until the halfway mark, I do see myself accomplishing these key objectives:

·         PMI approving my PMI-PBA certification application

·         Completely outlining PMBOK chapters 5, 8 and 13 to prepare for the PMI-PBA

·         Finished reading BABOK chapters 2 and 3

·         Scored 80% on the RMC Project’s PMP scope, quality and stakeholder management knowledge area practice exams.

·         Completed Ed2Go Introduction to SQL and Advanced Excel 2010 online courses

·         Enrolled in the USDA Graduate School SQL course for in-person assistance

·         Expand my personal and professional network

·         Have fun the entire time

Although this looks like a lengthy list, I am already in the process of completing many of these tasks so I will meet all of these obligations before June 30, 2014. Furthermore, here are my prospective 2^nd half of 2014 goals below:

·         Transfer the PMI-PBA knowledge and start studying for the Certified Business Analyst Professional (CBAP) exam by October at the latest. I think that I will finish it before then.

·         Get promoted

·         Seek more challenges

·         Travel more

·         Improve my SQL and Oracle programming skills

·         Pass the PMI-ACP certification test

Showing Compassion for Yourself at All Times

                Sometimes I am too hard on myself wanting to do more. Someone today has let me know that I am doing more than a whole lot of people. Furthermore, once I know better, I do better.

Transition to Mentor

I have been a member of a particular Linkedin test-taker support group for a couple of years. This week a person posted that he has failed the exam twice. I feel sorry for him because everyone else in the Linkedin study group has been passing.  I’ve never known anyone who has failed once let alone twice. I don’t want him to fail a third time because then he would be disqualified.  I know the pain of failing the CAPM the first time.  I’ve used that pain as motivation to pass the PMP exam the first time.  One of the study pages contains all of these study links. I’ve copied them for him emailing them privately.  Even though I have stopped studying for this exam to prepare for the PMI-PBA certification exam, I just want to be a blessing to someone.  This certification exam has a lot of cross-industry portability.  I want that man to be able to pass it and help his family have a better future. Heck, I just want him to pass and not feel like a loser.  After sending the email, it hit me that I am now a mentor, a den mother, if you will in this group.  I do have a considerable amount of influence, it’s due to offering people congratulations when they’ve posted passing the exam.  This is the first time that I have actually contacted someone and provided resources to a test-taker.  I am happy that I have been a blessing to this man and nothing more.

Preparing for the Project Management Institute's New Professional Business Analyst (PMI-PBA) Certification

Friday I learned from Project Management Institute’s Twitter that it is holding a Professional Business Analyst (PMI-PBA) certification pilot program.  This motivated to read PMBOK, BABOK and purchase a study book to prepare.  Unlike my PMI-ACP certification endeavor (which I will return to later this year), I have a lot more overlap with business analysis than agile.  I have a PMP, MBA, business analysis education and 8 years’ business analysis experience.  I would easily qualify.  

                After debating and expending much energy deciding whether or not to return to my office, I’ve discovered that I can copy and paste the BABOK to Word enabling me to create a chapter 1 summary sheet. There is a whole lot of information that I must grasp but I am ready to absorb everything in order to pass the PMI-BPA pilot program.  Though 61% is probably the passage rate, I am aiming for 80% and will accomplish this through using CBAP exam materials.  I do think that buying the Rita Mulachy CBAP flashcards and writing down a couple per day will help me become stronger in the business analysis area. Even though this is chapter 1, there is so many differences between business analysis and project management. I have to learn the lingo. My brain is expanding with blood circulating through parts of my brain I probably haven’t used since studying for my PMP last year. 

Trying Something New in the Gourmet Department

     I have rested today (I think that 1-hour wait at Shake Shack with the employee misspelling my name as Katana instead of Carla has drained my energy!). I’ve slept in until 8am then have taken a nap from 2pm-3pm.  Here I am on a 4-day Memorial Day weekend with everything planned except for rest.  Today I have gone to the grocery store and will start packing my lunch just to see how it is like. I already know that buying groceries are cheaper than eating out but I just want to see how packing my lunch goes.  I might even improve my cooking and food preparation skills. 

Receiving a Career Blessing and Now I am on My Way!

Yesterday I received a LinkedIn invitation from someone with CBAP certification who is willing to refer me for my CBAP certification. This is huge because IIBA requires 2 recommendations to sit for the CBAP exam. These recommendations were my main hurdle but not anymore! Clearing this hurdle all but guarantees me earning two professional certifications this year. This spring I'll pass my PMI-ACP then CBAP. I am also applying for online adjunct faculty positions because I have a graduate school and more than enough experience to share. Furthermore, I want to be able to help people get on their way professionally because they are making an effort to improve themselves. Becoming an online adjunct professor would help me be a blessing to these students. That's why I am embarking on this journey.

Why Not Me?

I have been daring to do more.  This month I have applied for a high-profile fellowship. I have asked myself ‘Why not me?’ Looking at the previous participants, I have the same education and experience. The only difference is that they have applied and I have not; therefore, I’ve asked myself ‘Why not me?’ Applying is great because it removes the boundary that only certain people can become fellowships. Why not me and why not be the first? I have transferred this same mentality while preparing for my TEDx talk.  My graduate school alma mater is cosponsoring a Tedx talk. Immediately I watch YouTube videos of previous Tedx talks to see what they are looking for. It is essential to do some research to improve my chances of being selected. I know that I have an in because of my education, experience and securing external distinction. Since I am a Small Business Book Award judge on the first try, I know that I can land a TEDx talk spot.  I have the education, skills and the life story that connects with the audience. Why not me? Who else if not I? 

Breaking Out of My PMI-ACP Certification Inertia

I have received my second Rita Mulachy PMI-ACP Exam Prep study guide today because I cannot find my first one.  I have completed the first chapter. This is a big step in the right direction towards earning my PMI-ACP certification, and, more importantly eradicating inertia. I have sit on the PMI-ACP certification for two years. My Program Analyst job and PMP certification consume these two years so this time is productively spent; however, clearing this hurdle liberates my time and gives me another marketing tool.  Getting the first chapter out of the way helps me off of my duff.  Chapter 2 is over 40 pages so it will take a week.  It will also be the first chapter test and exercises that I take.  I am ready for this opportunity because it will create my baseline. I think that I can complete one chapter per week so I will finish the study guide by mid-June.  Even though right now, I am fretting that it might take so long and the 2 months might obliterate my timeline, at least I have gotten started so I will be farther along than procrastinating. The one thing is for certain: Now that I have started, I am on my way!

Breathe

I can breathe freely now

No more labored breaths

Inhaling and exhaling fear

I know that  I am in a far better place

Finding Light at the End of the Tunnel is Published on Careeranista

Today I am so proud that my very first article from the Careeranista website, www.careeranista.com. It’s entitled, Finding Light at the End of the Tunnel. This is also the same book which I proofread for January 2014 publication.

http://www.careeranista.com/index.php/blogs-and-advice/diaries-of-a-careeranista/entry/carla-jenkins-on-finding-light-at-the-end-of-the-tunnel?fb_action_ids=10152229298249194&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_source=aggregation&fb_aggregation_id=288381481237582

Profoundness in Unexpected Places

                 Yesterday my life coach said something profound about my situation. She said that some people viewed my intelligence as a form of maliciousness. They thought since I climbed to the top that I exhibited some kind of Machiavellian trait of winning at all costs in order to be where they are at. However, once they discovered that I did not possess that character trait, they tried undermining me. I never understood how embodying negativity was healthy for me; and, this was before all of the biochemistry findings from think tanks. Whenever I got angry, it always felt like my body was eating itself. I didn’t need that cannibalism in my life and certainly I wasn’t going to perpetrate this externally. Her words made me reevaluate my situation and realize that I never wanted to ever be a part of that group in order to be accepted. I was perfectly okay being myself and even willing to fight to for it. I don’t believe in hurting people in order to get ahead because I have gotten this far without having to do it.

Synergy!

Things are moving fast. Today while working on applying for jobs and enjoying my snow day, I receive an email congratulating me on becoming a Small Business Book Awards judge.  I am honored because there will probably a whole lot of applicants. It just feels good to be acknowledged. I’ve submitted my two topics (economics and technology). Possessing economics work experience, I am well-versed in the topics. Furthermore, I have over 10 years’ data mining experience and am a Trekker so technology is right up my alley. Most importantly, I love reading books because I can always learn something from them. With the Small Business Book Awards, I intend to read all of the cutting edge business topics to stay on top of my game.

                This announcement comes on the heels of receiving Chaz’s Careeranista book and being mentioned in the acknowledgements. I will build upon this momentum by considering freelance writing. I might even restart my fiverr.com page to earn more income. $5 is better than nothing. I think it’s even my 1% cost of living adjustment (COLA) from the federal government.  And it doesn’t just stop with this new book judge announcement. It gets better.

                While reading my graduate school’s alumni newsletter, the university says that it is looking for bloggers. Since the alumni department follows me on Twitter, I know that I am a frontrunner. Furthermore, I have stayed in the alumni notes page with my promotions and project management certification accomplishments. I will use my writing as my ticket to get out of this predicament.

Making Moves

                I helped proofread a friend’s book and she quoted me and wrote me in her acknowledgements. She also debuted a career website along with her book. I asked her about writing articles for the site and if freelancers wrote the majority of the material. She responded that though most freelancers wrote the website material, they did it for free. Well, I knew that I could at least get something since I helped her with the book.  Furthermore, I wanted to expand my career opportunity and writing is right up the alley.

                Writing will be my ticket out of a toxic workplace. With the government shut down, Friday being my off day and Monday being Presidents’ Day, I have 5 days towards working on my craft. Immediately I wrote her my biography (BA, MBA and PMP) and a photo to her copy editor to get started. Even in the midst of a snowstorm, I am making career moves.  I am using my pen to get out of this raggedy mess.  

Martin Luther King Memorial Day

                Going to the MLK Memorial is great (especially since it’s 50+ degrees in January. Last year during inauguration it was 20 degrees.). I attended the groundbreaking so it feels that I am coming full circle.  Plus it is the holiday. I am the living embodiment of the Dream: a black women with two degrees, two project management certifications and a very well paying job. I am happy to see many families with children there.  It is essential to teach Dr. King to the future generation. There are a lot of activities with the Park Ranger (the children’s activities are the best because they come with a junior Park Ranger badge.). Moreover, there are a lot of immigrants there which I find unexpected. I guess their presence magnifies the importance of Dr. King’s civil rights legacy upon them. 

Martin Luther King quote

Martin Luther King stone bust

MLK quote

MLK quote

MLK quote

MLK Memorial Sign

MLK quote

MLK quote

MLK quote

MLK quote

MLK quote

MLK quote

MLK quote

MLK quote

MLK quote

MLK quote

Paying It Forward

                Today I receive my Cleveland State University Perkins student loan payoff letter. In it the university says that since I’ve paid off my loan, my money will be used to make loans to other students. That’s an unknown added bonus for me because I know the struggle.  Although I graduated 12 years ago, I know what it’s like to be struggling for money. I worked at the Upward Bound and took out Perkins loan to afford the tuition. Luckily, I was an Ohioan so I received the in-state rate.  My Cleveland State University education has helped me land a GS-9 Economist position in my first government job.  Currently I am a GS-14. I want my money to go to current students so that they can have the same if not greater opportunities than I do.  Below is my payoff letter.

Paying it forward just doesn’t stop with new students. It continues with me because now I am more motivated to payoff my American University tuition debt.  I will use my tax refund to pay it off because it has been 3 years since I last matriculated. It should be over by now!

Cleveland State University Perkins Student Loan Payoff Letter

Not Waiting Until 2014 to Clean My Financial House

            I transferred some money from my savings to my checking to payoff my Perkins student loan. I figured that I had the money why wait until 2014 to pay it off.  Furthermore, it would decrease my indebtedness, increase my creditworthiness, receive a payoff letter that I can send to all three credit bureau, and help my 2013 tax situation. 

The momentum I created today won’t stay in 2013. It would continue well into 2014 because I aim to payoff another student loan.  I have already decided to pay money each paycheck to accelerate my repayment. I will be done by July 1, 2014.  When I receive my state and federal tax refunds, I will use these funds to pay down my debt. Improving my finances are a 2014 resolution.  Even if it means my missing NBA All-Star then so be it because my credit rating matters more.

Instant liquidity

                This morning I ate breakfast at the Four Seasons using the leftover cash from my hair appointment.  At my waitress’ recommendation, I tried that shrimp and grits. I paid in cash.  Stunned she asked me if I needed a receipt. I told her yes leaving her a cash tip.  Later this afternoon, I ate dinner at Doi Moi where I left my waiter a $5 cash tip.  His response was immediate upon seeing the $5 bill. This reminded me that cash is king especially among service workers.  They don’t get paid the standard minimum wage due to tips but need cash to support their families.  That $5 can be spent as soon as possible for food or medicine or even rent.  In this era of credit, debit and Bitcoin, the public must never forget that service workers still prefer cash.

Reppin' My City

            Even though I spend most of my time in Washington, DC, I always represent my hometown Cleveland, Ohio. I must because I spend 28 years there and always return. I patronize Cleveland clothing companies showing my pride. Below are my Homage’s Cleveland is the City t-shirt and the Cleveland Clothing company’s Fashionista t-shirts.

Homage Cleveland is the City T-shirt

Cleveland  Clothing Company Fashionista T-shirts

Yes Virginia There Is a Santa Claus!

            Santa Claus is my Mommy who mailed me these red Christmas pajamas.  I love them because red is my favorite colors (hers too!).  Even though I  am an adult, I still love getting presents from  my Mommy!

Don't Complain, Make a Plan!

            Yesterday something urgent popped into my brain out of nowhere. Instead of letting fear consume me, I decided to start working (through the USA Network’s Indiana Jones marathon which took dedication because I loved Indy!).  Once I gained a rhythm, the fear dissipated.  Before leaving for dinner at a restaurant, I completed most of it. While awaiting my meal, I whipped out my notebook and started jotting down my plan. The fresh air helped because I no longer felt confined to my apartment.  There was an energy of fear permeating that place. It didn’t seep out into the open so getting out of my apartment let my brain decompress.  I wrote down everything I fear and created a plan to overcome it.  There were no complaints, excuses or obstacles. I just wrote down my own timeline of how I would accomplish everything.  Calmly writing down everything and making a plan eliminated all of my fears allowing me to push forward. Exiting the restaurant, I felt better ready to face next week with a plan. I didn’t waste any time or energy on fretting, I decided to plan making my shorten Christmas holiday week more effective.

Happy for Someone Else's Success

            Today a friend of mine notified me that she received a White House Christmas card. I was so proud of her success because she worked hard for it.  Her announcement made me remember my 2011 White House Christmas visit.  It was awesome! Next year I will return to see the Christmas trees (and Bo again).  Also knowing that someone has received a White House Christmas card motivates me to put this on my 2014 to-do list. I was in the prestigious Vote Corps, a founding member of Organizing for Action and long-term donor so why not? Aim high here.

If You Want to Come At Someone, Please Use Spell Check!

            Someone was reading my blog entry highlighted to www.dcblogs.com and sent me an email telling me not to listen to certain people. Okay, cool. What wasn’t cool was that this person included people who did nothing to her and failed to use spell check.  So PSA: When you want to come at someone, please use spell check else you look foolish giving the other person a whole lot of ammunition!

Ask and Ye Shall Receive

I have a Wednesday interview but I know nothing about the industry. I need to get out of my current workplace because it is zapping my energy. There is too much toxicity and ego. I am very happy to humble myself pushing mine aside to ask someone more qualified for advice.

It is amazing how much help you can receive when you ask and have good energy.   I am a big believer on karma which is why I emit positive energy even on negative days. Why be down when I can be up? Also as a Type A, I employ my research skills to solve problems, however, this time, I don’t know anything about the consulting industry and since I know someone who works there, I’ve decided to ask.

 I am preparing for a consulting interview and I email a contractor who works at my current agency.  We’re LinkedIn connections so I drop her an email.  She supplies me with so much information and insights like pay structure, career track and proposal writing. I have googled the firm finding a contract and am considering taking some Foundation Center grant writing classes to improve my skills.  It is essential to think beyond the ground floor with me.  The phone interviewer tells me that not having a consulting background so it’s necessary to acquire these writing skills to make myself the best candidate. Also she tells me that it is okay to ask about the possible government shutdown coming in January (My life coach was against it but since the professional confirmed my original line of questioning, I will ask that question. I am disaster-funded so I’d still be working if not hired by the consulting firm).  

Ridding Myself of Cabin Fever at Doi Moi

            Since I stayed home today due to inclement weather, I RSVPed at Doi Moi for dinner.  When I arrived at 5:30pm, there was virtually no one there. I bet that I was the only person who made a reservation. Anyhow, I sat down asking my waitress if there was anything new on the menu. I saw the Cambodian dish (Doi Moi was Thai and Vietnamese so why not?). The ginger made the pineapple pretty tangy but it was good overall.  Next was the crab fried rice.  The Cambodian pineapple dish filled me up forcing me to take the rice home but I was happy to get out.

Doi Moi Plai Manoah Cha Cambodian Style Stir Fried Pineapple and Ginger

Doi Moi Khao Phat Puu Blue Crab Fried Rice

Taking Time for Me

            After being in the heavy snow flurries yesterday I thought that the federal government would close today. My body was all ready for a ‘snow day’ (DC is a Southern city. As a native Clevelander a couple of inches of the white stuff doesn’t shut down my city! But, I will take it however I can get it!). However, that wasn’t the case: raggedy Office of Personnel Management (OPM) only gave a 2-day delay. Ba Humbug! This was the Christmas season. Why OPM wanted to put a coal in my stocking was beyond me. After checking my leave calculator, I (and my body) decided to stay home today. I took time for me because I needed to with everything that was happening.  I needed a break plus I didn’t want to fall on the sidewalk en route to the metro; fight it out in freezing sleet during the afternoon and the very real possibility of it freezing overnight. Hopefully this time OPM will close the government doing everybody a favor. In the meantime, I am taking it easy.

Not Putting My Life On Hold

             I know that I have not written for over one month due to all of the craziness surrounding my life. I have been in survival mode.  I am fighting for my job so I’ve been busy and booking life coach appointments left and right.  During all of the madness, I’ve poured out all of my emotions to her.  In one session, I talked about how I really wanted a pair of winter boots that I saved for but was afraid to purchase them because of my current situation. My life coach told me not to suspend my life.  I didn’t know what tomorrow would bring. She was right. I bought the Stuart Weitzman tan nubuck 5050 suede boots one month ago, traveled to the Montgomery Mall Stuart Weitzman store to have them sprayed (If they messed them up, I’d get a new pair), and kept on with the rest of my life. At that time, I was finishing up Bits of Thread’s fashion illustration class because I was working on drawing my fashion line. I was proud that unlike this summer, when life punched me in the gut, I didn’t buckle continuing the class. That showed my resiliency. Fast forward one month later and everything is starting to work itself out. I am on the cusp of finding a new job and a new career field. My life coach was right, I couldn’t put my life on hold over a temporary setback.

Below are my new Stuart Weitzman tan nubuck suede 5050 boots from 20^th anniversary collection:

Stuart Weitzman tan nubuck suede 5050 boots

Things Are Never What They Seem

             Speaking with my life coach has helped me clarify things. First, I’ll survive my current workplace Second, since I was promoted in August and that should be my FY13 annual rating, I should demand 2 5s and 2 4s. A promotion is the highest award you can receive so why not start there? My supervisor signed it so she can’t dispute it. End of story. Third, tread lightly on asking about the government shutdown. That might bring up a red flag. I ‘ll ask the contractor about this since she’s  worked during the government shutdown. That might bring up a red flag. I ‘ll ask her about since she’s a contractor who worked during the government shutdown. I’ll ask her about starting pay so that I don’t undercut myself. I want to start at $120,000. Also ask about work schedule and holidays off. Fourth, I will make my life coach proud next Thursday by executing on Wednesday’s interview. There’ll won’t be a letdown just to generate a story. This time will be different. The narrative is that I would’ve received two promotions in one year. It’s not the way I want but it’ll due. I will end 2013 on a high note. Remember, life is all about resiliency.

After All of This, I am Still Standing!

            Friday my former landlord emailed me saying that it would cancel my fathom debt. It was liberating because we signed settlement papers in August. But the crooked landlord sent the fathom debt to a collection agency who called me and my family. I filed a consumer complaint with a state agency against the collection agency. Even the state agency’s case worker got on my nerves. Last Wednesday when I emailed the landlord and Thursday she attached a 2-page billing statement. My lawyer friend told me to stick to my guns. Friday morning the landlord said that she would cancel my debt. I felt victorious because I won.  Finally, I would focus on living in my current address instead of dwelling on the past. My home was at peace and I loved it!

Less than 60 Days Left in 2013

            Today is November 1^st and less than 60 days remain in 2013. I’m amazed at how fast this year has gone. In January I was attending President Obama’s inaugural ball and now it is November. At least I have earned my PMP and promotion so it’s not like I’m wasting time! The next 60 days, I’m not wasting time either. I will be working on closing out 2013 with another certification, another job and learning consulting. I am considering PMI-ACP (Agile) because not too many people have it increasing my competitive advantage in the marketplace. I will get a new job somewhere else. Regarding consulting I’ve always wanted to go into it but my life always gets in the way. Not anymore because I am going to make time. No more excuses!

Somethings Are Just Necessities

            I am adding up all of the charges for renovating my space.  I have purchased a new Origami shelf, three Winsome fabric boxes, and carpet.  I am fretting over the amount. Then I realized that I need these things to be up to code. This isn’t about wasting money. When I transfer the $800 from my savings to my checking, I need these things. This isn’t a pair of Stewies. I must de-clutter my space and purchase carpet so that I don’t get fined. Somethings are just necessities.

            I pride myself on self-assembling my fourth Origami shelf. It gets a little sticky but after taking off my sweater, it unsticks. I do think that I don’t need the Winsome fabric boxes because I’ll probably put my shoes on this rack. I will await my carpet to see how much space I have to cover up. I am just happy that everything is coming by tomorrow so that I can go and get my hair done Thursday then pick up the rest at Target on Friday.

It just seems like everything is coming together so when Monday rolls around, I will be A okay. The bogus debt collections thing will be over with since DC Attorney General is handling it. I have scanned my fake bill emailing it to my case worker. I will follow up via email asking him about receiving my email and speaking with the compliance officer. I will reinforce the DC Attorney General retrieving a formal letter from bogus debt collector about not having my file and not selling this fake debt to any other collection agencies. I want to formal letter. If my case worker doesn’t respond by Wednesday mail a letter with copies of the correspondence because I want the DC Attorney General to know that I am on the case monitoring them.  I will not rest until I receive a formal letter from the company that I can mail to the three credit bureaus.  All of my problems are going away and just in time because I need some peace at home. 

Rededicating Myself to Studying for the PMI-ACP Certification

            I’ve considered rededicating myself to studying for my PMI-ACP certification today. Ever since October 1^st, I felt like something was untapped. I needed to adapt to a new situation. Earning my PMI-ACP certification is the answer because there are a lot of IT and agile opportunities out there that I can tap. I already have PMP certification and 3.5 months later it’s high time to start working on earning my second certification. I’ll apply the same schedule of taking one knowledge area practice exam then a full practice exam every week that I implemented while studying for the PMP exam. Furthermore, I am mentally in 2014 mode and earning my PMI-ACP certification is a nice way of ending 2013 and starting 2014. I am thinking bigger and better for next year. I am looking for my GS-15 and armed with two project management certifications, I know that I’ll get one.

            I am all about taking full advantage of opportunities and the PMI-ACP certification is one. I know that employers are starting to demand it and why not position myself? Though many people have the PMP, not too many have the PMI-ACP. Also the PMI-ACP is more rigorous than Certified Scrum Master (CSM). Personally, I am all about the grind. Whenever I see that there’s a pathway leading me to more opportunities, I take it. It’s the reason why I have an MBA, PMP and now a PMI-ACP before December 31^st.

Finally a Free Day to Be Free!

            This is my first off day where I don’t encumbered by responsibility. I can just run errands, do laundry and enjoy a Palm steakhouse fried shrimp, French fries and coleslaw. The waiter tells me about this special because I was going to the business lunch.  I’m glad I try the special because it is filling. I have five shrimp, fries and coleslaw. I couldn’t finish all of it still I order warm doughnuts to go. These doughnuts come with whipped cream, chocolate and raspberry dipping sauces. They are sumptuous! I am still full hours later. Below are the photos:

Clockwise: Coleslaw, Shrimp Sauce, Fried Shrimp, French Fries and Tartar Sauce

Palm Restaurant Doughnut Bag

Doughnuts

Clockwise: Raspberry Dipping Sauce, Whipped Cream and Chocolate Dipping Sauce

Not Waiting for Destiny to Intervene

            I’ve just purchased the COR/COTR Answer book today using my credit card because I couldn’t wait until next Saturday in order to start working on my dream. Using Amazon Prime, it’ll arrive on Monday. In between now and Monday, I will read my ebook and write down some notes. Furthermore, I’ll ask my boss about COTR training but am prepared to foot the bill myself.  I know that by next Saturday I will have read at least 140 pages. I will earn my COTR certification the first time.

            I’ve never been someone who waits for an opportunity especially when there’s a clear pathway to getting it.  Most GS-15s manage contracts and COTR lets me do it.  There’s also managerial encouragement. The deputy director said ‘there was always a need for another COTR’. Well, all the more reason to go for it. 

Countdown to DC Fashion Week

            Even though DC Fashion Week starts next Monday, there are some fashion-related events this week which I will take advantage. This Friday is the International Couture Fashion show which I’ll attend instead of a trunk show. Fashion shows are all about looking for trends. Next week are the official fashion shows which I’ll attend. I will take a copious amount of photos posting them online. 

Getting My COTR

            I am happy that I have helped my coworker pass her COTR exam. When I return to the office, I will ask management about taking the training because I want this certification.  As a GS-14 I see GS-15 managing contracts so earning my COTR is the pathway towards that reality. I’ve already purchased the ebook and will read 20 pages per day until next pay when I buy the paper book. My goals are to finish reading the COTR prep book by November and earn my certification before year’s end. Regarding her COTR, I hope that she receives her GS-14 promotion especially since all of the COTR in our office are that grade.  I just want her to get her fair share.

Returning to My Old Lunch Stomping Grounds at the Downtown DC Palm Steakhouse

            I’ve returned to my old stomping grounds eating lunch at the Palm.  Working in SW instead of NW reduces how much I can frequent my old haunt. Even the maître’s mention this saying that he usually sees me for dinner; but welcomes me anyway. For lunch I order the business lunch menu (mixed green salad, Atlantic salmon [with tartar sauce], linguine marinara, and NY cheesecake). I am so full from the salad and salmon that I have the marinara and cheesecake to go. Here’s a pic:

Palm Steakhouse lunch

Presage

Presage- n. foretelling

                Even with everything that is going on in my life I have a presage that it’ll work itself out for the better.  I have too many irons in the fire for something bad to happen to me. Yesterday I spoke with my father and he asked me if I maintained my social life during this turbulent time. I replied yes because work wouldn’t get me down.

In the midst of all of these problems, I am still keeping my fashion dream alive by attending all the major DC fashion week events (front row of course!). I will also expand my professional network and keep in touch with everyone from the DC Fashion Foundation. Today I’ll do what Elizabeth Taylor has done whenever facing adversity: pour a glass of wine, put on some lipstick and pull it together!

Adapt III

            No sooner than I settle with my former landlord and move into a new apartment, does my work life fall out. There is so more jealousy regarding my getting a GS-14 that people are trying to take it away.  I thank God for earning my PMP certification because now I can find work somewhere else.  Also while helping a colleague earn her Contracting Officer Technical Representative (COTR) certification, has motivated me to pursue this. All of the other GS-14 possess COTR except for me; and, although I have only received my GS-14 for one month, I am adamant about receiving my COTR. It’s makes me equal and increases my overall competitive advantage.  If the government doesn’t have money then I will pay for it out of my pocket. I have done it with my CAPM and PMP surely I will do it with my COTR. I am all about self-investing. That how I’ve gone from GS-09 to GS-14 in seven years. I’m intent on going further than this in the next seven. Remember, it is all about adapting.

Never Too Far From Home

Tuesday I went to the downtown DC Barnes & Noble to pick up my book. While perusing the magazine stacks, I saw the Cleveland magazine.  I was so happy because even after working in this town for 7 years, I was still homesick. Purchasing this magazine was my way of always staying connected.

Saving Money Where I Can Through Ideeli!

            My Ideeli Escada wool trench coat arrived this past weekend and I was giddy because I only spent $249.99 on a $1175 coat. That’s 21% and saving $926.  This was only the beginning because I also ordered an Escada that should be shipping this week for only $99.  Cumulatively, I saved over $1000 on these two purchases. My closet and wallet thank Ideeli.com!

Escada Wool Coat

Escada Original Price Tag