As a military veteran, I continue to abide by my service's code of conduct: ‘Honor, Respect, and Devotion to Duty’. These values are applicable in the civilian sector. Honor means doing what is right; Respect involves respecting not only myself but also my clients, including their confidential information, personal journey, and goals. Devotion to duty involves upholding a level of professionalism and conduct, continuously improving my knowledge and skills, staying current with up-to-date information, and delivering relevant research-based, scientifically backed information and protocols that benefit my clients while ensuring that I "first do no harm."
Having had these values ingrained in me as a young adult assisted in developing a moral compass outside of my upbringing. I feel that they are important to implement in motivational interviewing as we honor each patient and client's journey, respect the person and their choices, and dedicate ourselves to assisting them the best we can within our scope of practice.
Integrity, Empathy, and Compassion
I believe in conducting myself with honesty, integrity, and respect in all aspects of my personal and professional life. Integrity is a fundamental value I learned as a young teenager, embodying the principle of doing the right thing, even when no one is looking. Sound moral judgment, honesty, and sincerity in our interactions are crucial when counseling clients. It's essential to acknowledge our limitations and not hesitate to refer clients to more certified practitioners if and when needed.
Empathy and compassion are indispensable in both personal and professional settings. As an upcoming registered dietitian, balancing these qualities with understanding a client's journey, situation, and feelings is vital. It is important to help clients navigate their challenges, offering encouragement and supporting their autonomy. Treating others with fairness and compassion while valuing diversity and inclusivity is fundamental to my practice.
Commitment to Continuous Learning and Professionalism
I am committed to continuous learning and growth, seeking to improve my skills and knowledge while upholding the highest standards of ethical behavior. I understand the importance of confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions and am dedicated to making positive contributions to my community and the world around me.
