I'm A FAILURE!!

Admittedly...I never thought I would EVER have to say that about myself.

If you truly know me, then you know I'm an overachiever. Through therapy, I've come to learn setting and accomplishing goals is how I nurture myself.

I didn't grow up with a lot of hugs, kisses, and "I love yous" - so I had to find a way to pat myself on the back and push myself to success. My son lovingly calls me a "nerd" because he has witnessed me go from "no degrees" in 2004 to "four degrees" and multiple career-specific certifications in 2026.

All of these accomplishments were completed against all odds, while working full time, being a single mom (for most of them), and eventually leaving Corporate America and starting and building my own successful consulting company. I had laser focus, a strong will to succeed, and determination to finish what I started. After all, I had a son watching my every move, and I needed to set an example for what he could achieve in life once he set his mind to it. I once told him I want enough credentials behind my name until it looks like a full sentence on its own. We both laughed about it...but I was so sincere and serious about that goal.

I'm a lot of "firsts" in my immediate family, so I didn't have role models at home to look up to as I set out on these goals. I, instead, became the role model for so many. Sometimes that crown was heavy to bare, but if not me...then who?

My final personal and professional goal was to obtain my law degree, pass the bar, and use my HR/OD/DEIB and legal expertise and education to help those who are disenfranchised and negatively impacted by employment, human, and civil rights law. I've held on to this dream and goal for over 15 years...and in December 2025...I obtained my law degree!

And although it was one of the most difficult challenges I ever faced - and I wanted to quit more than once - I stuck it out for 3.5 years, going full time while running my consulting business, switching law schools in my 2L year, and moving out of the country in my final year. This required me waking up at 3am in Rwanda to attend my live classes, which were held at 6:30pm Pacific. Some days were easier than others, and I felt delirious most of my last year...but I knew I owed it to myself to keep going. And I'm so glad I did, because now I can add "JD" behind my name, getting that much closer to the "full sentence" I set out for in 2004.

But in February 2026...I faced the most difficult and challenging goal of all...taking the California bar exam. I spent over 11 weeks dedicated to studying 10+ hours per day for 6 to 7 days per week. I stopped socializing. I abstained from drinking any alcoholic beverages. I wasn't very kind to my husband (thanks to lack of sleep, stress, and the pressure of keeping up with my study schedule). I knew I had trouble areas as I walked into the exam on Day 1, but I gave it my all and left nothing on the field. When I walked out of the exam at the end of Day 2, I collapsed in my husband's arms and cried like a baby. I was spent! I was exhausted! I was numb! I felt like my soul had left my body for 2 days and came crashing back inside me and I felt all the "feels" I didn't allow myself to feel for 11+ weeks. And believe me, I wanted to walk out during lunch and not return (like I saw others do)...but I endured both days and finished the exam.

But on this past Friday, I learned I did not pass! The simple status said "FAILED." I had to let that sink in. If I'm honest with myself...I wasn't TOTALLY surprised. But I was certainly disappointed. When I returned home after the exam, I put all of my study materials in a file cabinet, hoping to NEVER have to look at them again! I felt I let myself down...my husband down...my son down...and several other friends and family members who were all praying and rooting for my success. Not to mention all of the people I plan to help as their attorney one day. My ego is bruised. I've NEVER failed a standardized - or any other test - EVER. And throughout law school, I continued to surprise myself by passing every difficult final exam and never being placed on academic probation - I graduated with a 2.93 GPA!!

And yet, "FAILED" was my status when I logged into the portal. My first reaction was, "F$$K this exam! It doesn't define me! Plus...I got my JD and NO ONE can take that from me!"

But then...I sat in silence for a day after notifying everyone who was cheering for me along the way. I accepted their love, support, words of encouragement, and reassurances that I'm not the first to fail, and I will pass it the next time.

And then I had to go internal and have some hard conversations with myself. And one thing I know about me is...I'm NOT A F&&CKING QUITTER!! So I will allow myself to lick my wounds and have a pity party for a brief moment, and then decide when I will get back on the horse. But what I know for certain is that I will!!!

In the meantime, allow me to reintroduce myself:

Dr. Tana Marie Session, BS, MBA,PhD, PHR, GPHR, SHRM-SCP, ICF-Certified; SBA-WOSB, SBA-EDWOSB, JD (soon to be Esquire) - Yup! The sentence is almost complete!

May Observances:

• Asian Pacific Heritage Month: This month celebrates the histories, cultures, and contributions of Asian and Pacific American communities. It honors the lasting impact Asian and Pacific Americans have had on American society and culture.

• Jewish American Heritage Month: Centered on recognition and remembrance, this month honors the contributions Jewish Americans have made since first arriving in New Amsterdam in 1654. It highlights cultural, civic, and social influence across generations.

• Older Americans Month: Observed to recognize the contributions of older adults, past and present, to the nation. Special attention is given to those who have served, defended, and strengthened the country.

• Mental Health Awareness Month: Dedicated to increasing understanding of mental health and well-being. The month encourages open dialogue, education, and access to support and care.

• Haitian Heritage Month: This month honors Haitian history, culture, and resilience. It also celebrates the contributions of Haitian Americans across communities and industries.

• Military Appreciation Month: A month recognizing the service, sacrifices, and contributions of current and former members of the U.S. Armed Forces. It offers time for reflection and gratitude.

• Buddha Day (Vesak or Visakha Puja), May 1: A Buddhist festival marking the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha. It is observed on the full moon in May and is a public holiday in several countries, including India.

• Lag BaOmer, May 4–5 (sundown to sundown): A Jewish holiday commemorating the hillula of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai. It is traditionally marked by celebration, bonfires, and gatherings.

• Cinco de Mayo, May 5: A Mexican holiday commemorating the Mexican Army’s 1862 victory over France at the Battle of Puebla. It is widely celebrated through cultural events, music, and food honoring Mexican heritage.

• Moms’ Equal Pay Day, May 6: This observance highlights the wage gap experienced by working mothers. It draws attention to the fact that moms are paid significantly less than fathers for comparable work.

• National Day of Prayer, May 7: A U.S. observance inviting people to turn to prayer and meditation. It emphasizes reflection, faith, and unity.

• National Small Business Day, May 10: A day recognizing the role small businesses play in driving innovation and economic growth. It celebrates entrepreneurship and local impact.

• Mother’s Day, May 10: A celebration honoring mothers and motherhood. The day recognizes maternal bonds and the influence of mothers within families and society.

• Malcolm X Day, May 16: This observance commemorates the life and legacy of civil rights leader Malcolm X. It honors his contributions to racial justice, self-determination, and human rights.

• International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia, May 17: A global observance focused on combating discrimination and violence against LGBTQ+ people. It promotes dignity, equality, and human rights.

• National Public Works Week, May 17–23: This week recognizes the essential work of public works professionals. It highlights infrastructure, safety, and community well-being.

• International HR Day, May 20: A day celebrating human resources professionals and their role in shaping workplaces. It recognizes contributions to people strategy, culture, and organizational effectiveness.

• Global Accessibility Awareness Day, May 21: Dedicated to raising awareness about digital accessibility and inclusion. It highlights the experiences of more than one billion people living with disabilities and impairments.

• World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, May 21: Established by the United Nations, this day promotes understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity. It encourages dialogue and peaceful coexistence.

• Shavuot, May 21–23 (sundown to sundown): A Jewish holiday marking both the wheat harvest in Israel and the anniversary of receiving the Torah at Mount Sinai. Observances include prayer, study, and communal meals.

• Hajj, May 24–29: The annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, considered a mandatory religious duty for eligible Muslims. It represents one of the Five Pillars of Islam.

• Pentecost, May 24: A Christian holiday observed on the 50th day after Easter Sunday. It commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles.

• Memorial Day (United States), May 25: A federal holiday honoring military service members who died in wars fought by U.S. forces. It is observed through remembrance and reflection.

• Eid al-Adha, May 26–30: An Islamic festival commemorating Ibrahim’s willingness to follow God’s command. It is observed with prayer, charity, and community gatherings.

• Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh, May 28–29: A Bahá’í holy observance commemorating the passing of Bahá’u’lláh, founder of the Bahá’í Faith. Work is suspended during this period.

Until next month... Be well and protect your peace!