Saturday Night Genealogy Fun - Randy Seaver's genealogical exercise for the week is something I talked about in a previous posts here and here. I do not want to miss out on the fun so I am going to modify Mr. Seaver's assignment just a tad and answer just the basic part of the first question - "What is your ultimate genealogical goal?"
The Ultimate Genealogical Goal I have set for myself is certification. Board Certification.
The number one reason I want this achievement? Purely selfish - Validation. Acknowledgment from a panel of seasoned, professional genealogists, scholars, historians that I have finally reached an advanced level of understanding the principles of evidence analysis and the ability to convey those skills through the examples of my research I submit in my portfolio.
In plain English - becoming certified will mean that I can tell my family and friends "See - I told you I knew what the hell I was doing!" It reflects my knowledge of what records are available and where to find them. It lets people know that I have worked my butt off and I am good at what I do.
Over at the BCG website, I found this statement about certification that I really like -
"Compiling an application for Certified Genealogist is a grand achievement in itself, even if it is denied approval. It shows focus, perseverance, and a degree of organization well beyond that of most genealogists."
How long do you think you have have left to fulfill this ultimate goal?
I turned 50 this year and I think that I probably have 20 or 30 productive years ahead of me. I am going to send in my paperwork to "start the clock" in September. This means that I will have exactly 1 year to complete my portfolio and submit it.
Are you prioritizing your time adequately in order to achieve this goal?
Hell No! I really need a time management coach or something. I find myself getting way to distracted and I have so many things going on at the same time.
I have some major obligations - editor for my genealogy society's newsletter, registrar for my local DAR chapter, ProGen class, NGSQ monthly discussions group, a monthly and a weekly online publication that I write columns for.
Then I have my "schmoozing" thing - Facebook, Genealogywise, Twitter, etc. Then I have my blog and keeping up with all the other Geneabloggers. I love my blog and love reading others. Reading them help motivate me.
If not, what should you do to achieve the goal?
I need discipline. Whips, chains, the works.
Will you do what you need to do?
Yes, I will some how, some way get 'er done. Time to use a few "Get Out Of Hell Free" cards to keep me on track.
If all goes according to my plan, there will be another project on the table to distract you soon. ;-)
ReplyDeleteHey - could you send that guy in the picture over my way after he's got you working over time? Regular ol' time management systems don't seem to work for me - but fear is always a great motivator!!
ReplyDeleteLove your UGG - will be reading your blog to watch you achieve it :-)
Go for it, Sheri! All you have to do is sleep faster and then you will have more time!
ReplyDeleteHarold
Great goal! I can't wait to watch you achieve it!
ReplyDeleteBy the way, I am sure that the whips and chains will keep you on track! Haha!
I know you will achieve the goal without whips and with a good tickle to your funny bones.
ReplyDelete