5 Things to Know to Start and Succeed in the Plant Medicine & Psychedelic Space
1. Being of service will take you far. The field is filled with remarkable individuals who possess both big minds and even bigger hearts. Genuine efforts are recognized and valued. Going above and beyond with good intentions—whether it's making a difference in the field, supporting colleagues, making introductions, or opening doors—never goes unnoticed. Karmic connection is very real in this space!
2. Timing is everything. It's more than just a saying—we need to truly believe it. Often, success hinges on the right timing rather than anything else. Recognizing and understanding the importance of timing can make a significant difference in our efforts and outcomes.
3. Resilience - Entering a new field often comes with rejections and setbacks. It's not enough to simply develop a thick skin; you need to take proactive steps to achieve your goals. If you're not getting the opportunities you want, consider doing one or both of the following:
Identify and Address Gaps:
Determine what qualifications or experience you might be lacking. This often involves gaining relevant experience, which might mean starting over in a more junior role, taking a pay cut, or seeking additional education and certifications.
Embrace opportunities that allow you to build the necessary skills, even if it means working in a lower position than you're accustomed to. This could involve internships, volunteer work, or part-time roles. Consider going back to school or pursuing further training and certifications to enhance your qualifications and make yourself a more attractive candidate.Create Your Own Opportunities:
If traditional pathways are blocked, consider creating something for yourself. This could be starting a side project, launching a business, or initiating independent research. Paving your own way might be temporary, but it can also lead to unexpected and wonderful outcomes. Taking initiative demonstrates your passion and commitment, which can attract attention and open doors.
Personal Example: When I decided to work in the field of psychedelics, I realized that my background in neurology and pharmacology, while helpful, wasn't sufficient on its own. To bridge this gap, I not only sought out additional training and certifications, but also took on two unpaid research roles. My goals were to learn through hands-on research, publish findings to build credibility, and collaborate with more experienced professionals from whom I could learn. This approach not only enhanced my expertise but also established me within the field.
4. Don't try to do too many things at once. When building your reputation in a field, it's easy to get caught up in trying to do it all. Remember: quality over quantity. Avoid burning through your energy or funds. In the early stages, bootstrap wherever possible and outsource strategically. Focus on delivering excellence in a few key areas rather than spreading yourself too thin.
5. Your authentic presence matters. Attend social events, support others, and actively contribute to the field you want to succeed in. Build friendships and create partnerships. It's easy to get caught up in working tirelessly towards your goals, but discipline must be balanced with engagement. Take the time to come up for air, see what's happening outside your immediate focus, and get involved. Meeting people, contributing to the community, and even building new community can provide valuable insights, opportunities, and support on your journey to success.
Bonus: Don’t wait for others to hop on your bandwagon! Educate others! Identify key stakeholders and changemakers. Don’t wait for them to come to you, and find creative ways to bring them the information they need to bridge gaps!
