Hey There,
Long time, no see…though you’ve probably seen me somewhere else. Whatever the case, I realized today that it’s been over 2 weeks since my last post here. I also realized that my Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification exam is one week from today. Needless to say, I’ve become disconnected and somewhat withdrawn from the blog and social media scene. I don’t think I’ve ever worked as hard as I’m working right now. Between the exam preparation, my day job turning into Hurricane Shitshow aka the busiest season ever, the behind the scenes crap that comes with running a big blog (SBM), my email, and keeping up with my writing obligations, my plate is overflowing with food — much of it I’ll have to force myself to eat. Someone pass the Pepcid AC.
I’m even finding this simple update post difficult to write. It’s 7:15am. I’ve been up for well over an hour. And all I can think about is everything that needs to be done in the next seven days. My brain is already doing 100mph on a freeway to no where, and I haven’t even gotten to work yet.
By the time you see this, I’ll most likely be buried in some stack of papers or Excel sheet dealing with global compensation. If not that, I’ll be adorning my magical cloak so I can be on my invisible sh*t with a dingy red notebook containing months of study, stress, and struggle.
Honestly and study guide aside, I’ve learned a lot — both good and bad — about myself during this month of my professional rapture. And I can tell you that once I get my passing score on this exam and the busy season is over at my job, I’ll never allow myself to get into this situation again.
As optimistic as I’ve tried to be, I can’t help but notice how some of the issues I’m dealing with today were set in motion months ago. Much of this stress could’ve been avoided. But since I didn’t take the necessary steps, I’m getting a painful reality check. I’d talk about the lessons learned now, but I know the tone will be off and it won’t translate the way I’d like it to. So I’ll save it until after I triumph. It’d make for a much better straight-to-dvd production.
The feeling that I have right now is one that I’ve had before. It’s only January and I don’t like it. I’m already thinking about vacation locales, drinks with umbrellas, and the absence of internet. I’d plan something, but I don’t have the energy, time, or motivation to focus on anything other than what’s coming up. Maybe I need to put a picture of a beach above my desk. It never hurts to have a prize to eye. Granted, being able to put PHR after my name in my email signature is a prize in itself, but I’d rather be looking forward to things that aren’t work and responsibility. I need respite — a large dose of respite.
I’ll be back writing ferociously on the other side of this exam. Please keep me, my health, and my sanity in your prayers…well, if you’re into that sorta thing. Talk to you soon. And much like I’ll be doing over the next week, stay positive.
Struggling with the utmost realness,

Tests in life make us stronger and wiser. I will be praying for your success & some well deserved rest. Always remember that there is no greater feeling than reaping the fruits of your labor! Sometimes we don’t find out how strong we really are until we go through the hardest obstacles in our lives. They make the next obstacles in life easier to conquer. I speak from experience lol
I enjoy your work, and just wanted to say I will definitely say a prayer on your behalf.
No worries see Romans 8:28
“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”
All the best Slim. In my prayers..
*you’ll be returning the favour soon*
Slim I totally relate to this post. I, for some reason, decided that I could pack up a whole house by myself and move across the country without taking any time off work to do it. Who does that? So I find myself completely overwhelmed with thoughts of all that has to be done within the next 7 days.
((Hugs)) to you, and see you on the other side, guy.
I literally feel your stress through your words.
It’ll all be over soon though.
Procrastionation is a monster that a lot of us need to conquer. But this turmoil that you’re feeling, don’t ever forget it. That way, you’ll never be inclined to repeat this vicious cycle.
You know better now and that’s what really counts. Just don’t let it happen again. Lol
For all those things running through your head, write them down. That’s always worked for me. And don’t forget to breathe, it’s an awesome stress reliever.
Praying for you to be stress free and to never repeat this.
As for your exam, you’ll do well.
Hang in there Slimmy! You’re almost done bro! *church-hug*
Hi
Thanks for keeping us updated! Good luck on your Exam. I wish you success!
Wow, you took time to come here and write all that, considering how stressful it appears your life is right now. I hear you – I have been there, done that, more than once! As someone who has lived quite a few moments with “too much on my plate,” I’ve learned to be EASY on myself. In the scheme of life, all that “work” really doesn’t matter, if it’s stressing you out. Follow your “feel good” and make peace with it! If it “feels good” to disconnect, do it! You will be happier! In the meantime, I’ll intend a peaceful, EASY, smooth ride from here on for you! Warmly, Barbara
Good luck and we are sending good vibes to you!
Hang in there Slim. Everything is going to work out bro. God’s got you homie. It’s going to bring you through this. You’ll be breathing easy again before you know it.
When you are ready to take the vacation of all vacations…well thus far. Please send me an email. I am an agent and will get you the best deal possible. Enjoyed the post. HTHFYS.
Good luck with the PHR! I took it last spring and felt such a sense of relief when it was over. With consistent studying and good sleep the night before you’ll be fine!
Already took it and passed.