What It Takes To Make It In Massage Therapy
Posted on: September 30, 2013
Despite its abundance of multi-faceted rewards, a massage therapy career is not right for everyone. Besides dominating your day for decades, your work largely defines who you are. Moreover, becoming a massage therapist requires substantial money and time investments.For these reasons, it is essential to ensure that you have what it takes to succeed before pursuing a massage therapy career. Below is a list of questions designed as a guide for candid self-assessment.
Are you comfortable with touching, solitude, and nudity?
Massage therapists work with many clients who are disabled or self-conscious about excess weight, body hair, or other physical imperfections. A professional masseuse must overlook such superficiality to see the inner person.
Do you have an outgoing personality?
Therapeutic massage involves relatively intimate interactions with many clients who are often emotionally and/or physically distressed. Your demeanor should relax and put them at ease.
Are you in good shape?
Competent therapeutic massage entails prolonged standing to service several clients per day, many of whom require significant pressure during deep tissue massages.
Are you a good "people reader?"
Some clients prefer a subdued quiet atmosphere, while others are talkative and want a more interactive massage experience.
Are you an eager learner?
Many massage therapy techniques, professional designations, and job titles appear almost daily that did not exist a decade ago. Good massage therapists stay on top of such new developments to remain competent and competitive.
Are you a good organizer?
Good organizational skills are necessary to maximize time efficiency and productivity. Some clients need evening appointments, while others can come only in the morning or on short notice. A myriad of other details also need constant attention, such as maintaining adequate supply stocks, keeping detailed appointment records, and reviewing client intake forms.