2024 Behavioral Health Highlights

By Dr. Teranda Knight, DBH

As I take a moment to reflect on the whirlwind that has been the year 2024, I can confidently assert that it has been a year marked by both significant challenges and rewarding achievements. Each day has required strategic navigation as I worked diligently to accomplish my goals, all while facing a myriad of obstacles—both seen and unseen. Among these hurdles were distressing incidents such as being hacked, experiencing manipulation of my devices, and even witnessing my children and family members being targeted in various ways. The relentless nature of these challenges has tested my resilience and resolve. However, despite these adversities, I find solace in achieving more of my goals than I initially thought possible, which is a testament to my determination and hard work.

As we delve deeper into my journey, I invite you to examine my initial plans for the year alongside what I have accomplished compared to what remains unfulfilled. This reflection serves as a critical evaluation of my progress and growth throughout the year.

Let’s begin with the list of goals that I did not accomplish:

• Income Goals: Despite my best efforts, I found it challenging to meet my financial objectives this year, which has been a source of frustration and a learning opportunity.

• Partnerships: I aimed to forge meaningful partnerships that could enhance my professional network and opportunities, but this goal did not materialize as I had hoped.

• A concrete team in my field: Building a reliable and cohesive team has proven to be more difficult than anticipated, leaving me to navigate many tasks alone.

• Speakers for my podcast: I had envisioned a lineup of engaging speakers for my podcast, but securing their participation has been an elusive goal.

On the other hand, I am proud to highlight what I have accomplished throughout the year:

• Kept my website up to date: Maintaining an active online presence has been a priority, and I successfully ensured that my website reflects my current work and offerings.

• I got professional photos done and utilized them. Investing in professional photography has enhanced my brand image, allowing me to present myself with greater authenticity and professionalism.

• Posted more on social media: I made a concerted effort to increase my social media presence, engaging with my audience and sharing valuable content more frequently.

• Paid Ads: I ventured into paid advertising, which has helped expand my reach and visibility in a competitive market.

• More Article Posts: Writing and publishing more articles has allowed me to share my expertise and insights with a broader audience, contributing to my professional growth.

• Completed book edits and republished: Completing my book edits and subsequent republication has been a significant milestone, allowing me to share my knowledge more refinedly.

• Published a new book: Launching a new book has been one of my proudest achievements this year, marking a culmination of hard work and dedication.

• I completed all my forms for the consulting and coaching part of the business. Streamlining my consulting and coaching processes has positioned me for future success in these endeavors.

• I have studied and gained more knowledge in my crafted area. Continuous learning has been a priority, and I have invested time in expanding my knowledge and skills.

• Increased engagement with groups in my field on social media: Building connections and engaging with peers in my field has enriched my professional experience.

• Improved health: Prioritizing my health has led to tangible improvements, allowing me to approach my work and personal life with renewed energy.

• I was able to spend more time out of the home with family. I made a conscious effort to balance work and family life, resulting in more quality time with loved ones.

• Being there for my parents: Supporting my parents during challenging times has strengthened our family bonds and provided me with a sense of fulfillment.

• Learning the right vitamins, foods, and supplements needed to help me: My journey toward better health has included educating myself on nutrition and wellness.

• I discovered some great teas and even helped reduce my family's number of sick days. Exploring natural remedies has not only improved my health but also contributed to the well-being of my family.

• Grew my store merchandise. My last items were created by my daughters in support of their mother and her vision.

Now, I invite you all to evaluate my behavioral health in 2024. It is important to note that while I have celebrated many successes, the year has not been without its trials. I faced a host of technical challenges, including device storage issues and WiFi connectivity problems at the beginning of the year. Additionally, I grappled with personal family issues, the profound loss of my father, and unsettling experiences such as being stalked and watched by neighbors. There were instances where I felt followed and chased, and I dealt with the distressing reality of having private information stolen from primary care offices. Each of these incidents has left its mark, yet I have strived to maintain my composure and focus on the positive aspects of my life.

My approach to navigating these tumultuous experiences has been to remain calm, channel my passion when necessary, and embrace a mindset of love and compassion. I consciously avoid imposing my views and opinions on others, recognizing the importance of empathy in our interactions. I remain vigilant about my biases and strive to confront my own discrimination. Above all, I have made it a priority not to allow the negative events of this year to define me or dictate my emotional state. Instead, I aim to rise above these challenges, learning and growing from each experience as I continue to pursue my goals and aspirations.

With grace,

Dr. Knight