Trusting the Leap: My Journey into Doula Work
For as long as I can remember, I’ve felt a deep calling to support mothers through the beautiful and transformative journey of birth and postpartum. My own motherhood journey played a significant role in inspiring me to pursue doula work, along with a few other key factors. I’ve always been drawn to babies; as a little girl, I spent countless hours playing with baby dolls and caring for them as if I were their mother.
In January 2024, I bought my condo and moved next door to one of my closest friend’s sisters. We grew very close, as we both have kids around the same age who absolutely adore one another. I discovered she was a doula, and her passion and purpose deeply inspired me. She reconnected me with a dream I had back in 2016 when I was working toward becoming a labor and delivery nurse. At the time, I worked at Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak as a nurse aide, only to realize that my ethics didn’t align with hospital practices. I felt lost after stepping away from that path, unsure of how to fulfill my calling. Meeting my neighbor brought me back to this passion and helped me see a way forward.
In April 2024, I connected with one of my close friends, and we realized we both felt a calling toward becoming doulas. Together, we decided to research training programs and found one offered through the state: Full Circle Doula Training. What we loved most about this training was its deep connection to traditional African American roots, honoring the history and wisdom passed down through generations. The program resonated with us deeply, and as we went through the training, we both fell in love with the practice. Completing the training was a pivotal moment for both of us, and we’re now part of a doula agency, continuing to grow and expand our knowledge within this beautiful field.
Then, in July 2024, everything changed. I completed my doula certification, and the moment I held that certificate in my hands, I felt an undeniable sense of alignment with my purpose. For the first time in years, I knew exactly where I was meant to be.
But stepping into this path wasn’t as simple as diving in headfirst. I had to balance this newfound clarity with patience. At the time, I was still working in a corporate job—a space that felt increasingly misaligned with my heart but was also a source of stability and security. I longed to live my purpose fully, yet I was equally grateful for where I was. It provided the resources and connections I needed to build the bridge to my future.
The Power of Silent Work and Patience
During those months, I focused on shifting my perspective. Instead of feeling trapped, I saw my corporate role as a stepping stone. I worked quietly behind the scenes—building connections, learning, and envisioning what my life could look like as a full-time doula. I dreamed of taking the leap into my passion but understood the importance of timing. I prayed, journaled, and leaned into trust, knowing that the right moment would present itself.
And then it did.
A Leap of Faith
Change started to stir at my corporate job. There were shifts and uncertainties—the kind that might leave some people feeling uneasy. But for me, it felt like a nudge from the universe. Every day, I felt a stronger pull toward my true calling. It was as if I was being guided out, step by step.
Finally, I decided to take the leap. It was terrifying, not because I doubted my passion, but because of the fear that comes with stepping into the unknown. I realized, though, that this fear wasn’t mine to carry. It was the conditioning I had to release—the voices that said security was only found in a 9-to-5 job, that following your heart was too risky.
Trusting the Process
I chose to trust. I believed that if this path was truly mine, everything would work out as it was meant to. And so I let go of the safety net of corporate America and dove headfirst into my work as a doula. It was a leap of faith, guided by the belief that my purpose was worth pursuing, even if it meant facing uncertainty.
Two months later, I can’t express how grateful I am for that decision. Every day, I wake up feeling aligned, fulfilled, and ready to support the families I work with. I get to spend my days doing what I love while also having the precious time with my family that I truly cherish and need. The fear that once held me back has been replaced by a deep sense of peace and gratitude. I’ve learned that trusting your path, even when it feels scary, opens doors you never imagined possible.
Reflecting on the Journey
If you’re feeling a pull toward something greater, I encourage you to listen to it. Trust that the process will unfold as it should and that you’re being guided exactly where you need to be. It might not be easy, but the rewards of living in alignment with your purpose are worth every moment of doubt and fear.
As I look ahead, I’m excited to continue this journey, to grow, and to serve families with the love and care they deserve. Leaving corporate America was the scariest thing I’ve done, but it was also the most freeing. I’m here now, living my purpose, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
