WE Rise: Dr. April Hortman - Unbound and Unstoppable

"The biggest lesson I've learned," Dr. April Hortman reflects, "is the power of patience. Growth isn't a race; it's a journey. Celebrate the small wins, and don't get caught up comparing your progress to someone else's."

These words encapsulate the spirit of a woman who has dedicated over 20 years to empowering individuals and communities through social work, professional supervision, and training. Dr. Hortman's journey, while marked by significant achievements, hasn't been without its challenges. It's a story of breaking through constraints, navigating complexities, and ultimately, trusting herself.

Breaking Barriers, Building Community

Dr. Hortman's entrepreneurial spirit ignited from a deep desire to provide more effective community support, free from the limitations she observed in traditional models. She firmly believes in the transformative power of community work and collaboration. This vision fueled her to create Unbound Counseling and Consulting, a space where individuals and communities can experience growth, learning, and support without restrictions.

"I wanted to build a place where people felt truly seen and heard," she explains. "A place where they could access the resources they needed to thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances."

Navigating the Maze, Finding Her Footing

Dr. Hortman's path, however, included obstacles. Early in her career, she faced the daunting task of navigating the intricacies of the social work field. One particular challenge was transitioning from direct practice to supervision and training development. "It felt like learning a new language," she recalls. "I had to develop different skills and find new ways to connect with people." Building a supportive network during this time was also critical. She found herself reaching out to more experienced colleagues and mentors for guidance. Through these experiences, Dr. Hortman learned to trust her instincts, embrace the learning curve, and find a healthy balance between her professional and personal life.

The Power of Persistence and Self-Belief

A crucial lesson Dr. Hortman learned was the importance of seeking and accepting support. She emphasizes that building a successful venture is not a solitary pursuit. Embracing support from mentors, colleagues, and friends is essential for growth. "I realized I didn't have to do it all alone," she says. "Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness."

Dr. Hortman's advice to her younger self reflects her journey: be patient, enjoy the journey, celebrate small victories, and resist the urge to compare your progress to others. Her secret to maintaining balance? Setting clear boundaries, being intentional with her time, and staying connected to her core values.

Wise Words from a Wise Entrepreneur

For Dr. Hortman, a "wise entrepreneur" possesses a deep understanding of themselves and the world. It involves embracing vulnerability, listening to intuition, and approaching challenges with grace and resilience. She believes that vulnerability is not a weakness but a strength, allowing for authentic connections and deeper understanding.

A Foundation of Community and Mentorship

Dr. Hortman's journey has been profoundly shaped by community and mentorship. Mentors provided invaluable guidance, while the community offered vital support and inspiration. Her advice for building strong relationships in business? Prioritize authenticity, trust, and clear communication.

"People can sense when you're being genuine," she asserts. "Building trust takes time, but it's the foundation of any strong relationship."

A Call to Connection and Action

Connect with Dr. April Hortman Unbound and learn more about her work by emailing her at aprilhortman@outlook.com.

You can also find more information about Unbound Counseling and Consulting on Facebook.

Dr. Hortman's actionable advice for those striving towards their goals? Define a clear, specific objective and break it down into smaller, manageable steps. Remember, every step, regardless of its size, generates momentum.

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