Here's how you can debunk the common misconceptions about temporary and contract work in Functional Training.

Understand that contract work can offer a level of job security through defined work periods and the possibility of contract renewal. It allows you to build a diverse portfolio of experience and can often lead to more permanent opportunities. In functional training, contract work can offer competitive, and sometimes higher, rates due to the specialized skills required for short-term projects. Lastly, there's a myth that temporary or contract work doesn't allow for skill development. In fact, functional training roles often require you to adapt quickly to new environments and learn new methodologies, which can rapidly enhance your skill set.

I think in the beginning of a training career, or when you want to branch out of the "safe" and "known", temporary work can offer more diverse experiences and unique opportunities that can be pursued with a certain freedom. Some of my opportunities had short windows to commit and provided multiple moments of growth and learning. However, as my experience grew, it was nice to have contract work to have stability and security, but there wasn't as much growth and learning.

Career Growth Many people think that temporary or contract work stops career growth. But actually, these jobs can help you get better opportunities. These roles need adaptable and skilled professionals. By doing different jobs, you improve your skills, learn more about the industry, and make new professional contacts. All of these help you grow in your career.

I don't think temp or contract work hinders career growth unless you continue to pick safe and easy opportunities. Taking more risk and putting yourself out there for new and different opportunities is where skill advancement and growth occur. Sometimes this may require uncomfortable or unconvential methods, but any change can be good. This may also include taking new courses, shadowing different professionals, or having challenging conversations with collegues I've come to call "mastermind" sessions that are an exchange of experiences and challenges in the work environment.

Many people think that temporary or contract workers earn less than permanent employees, but this isn't always true. In specialized training, contract jobs can pay well, sometimes even more, because they need special skills for short-term projects. Plus, having the flexibility to work multiple contracts can lead to higher overall earnings.

Work-life balance is critical to happiness, both at work and at home, plus we have to practice what we preach. Having time to have a life/family/friends, or take care of your own health, or to journey and discover your next challenge. An over-worked, imbalance or an unhappy practitioner can be a drain on a client who is trying to motivate themselves to be better. Bringing positivity through your own work-life balance can set an example for your client that is the catalyst for their own change.

At the end of any career day, the more you put yourself out there the better. Make mistakes. Fail. Everything is an experience you learn from, even if it means learning what you don't like and what you don't want. Every client, contract, project, course, clinic, workshop you attent is an opportunity to make an impression on someone, develop a contact that can be of use to you one day, or even just be an opportunity to practice your elevator pitch of who you are and what you are about. Practice makes perfect.