Help! I have to write a bio

[SamiNoodle]

I've had writer's block on this so far. As a non-experienced doula I have no idea what to say in my bio to recommend me! I am thinking I should give my place of training and my philosophy of birth; any suggestions/ thoughts beyond that? I am on call for apprentice shift tomorrow night, and it's due Saturday or I don't get any more shifts until it's done... so I need to get it done pretty quick. I'll check back tonight and tomorrow so I can use the advice and get it written before my shift starts. Thanks!

[Wendy79]

What qualities do YOU have that you think make you a good doula? What have people said about you in other situations that is a positive sign? Are you a good communicator, a loving presence, an excellent friend, intelligent and learned....? What would a work supervisor you respect, your best friend's mom, or your pastor say about you? What have they seen you do that demonstrates those qualities?

[SamiNoodle]

Thanks Wendy! I'm getting to this a little later than planned, but it will be in on time and that's what counts. There is something a co-worker once said abotu me as a doula that I would put, but it's not quite professional sounding: "You're the sort of person you want to have around when you're trying to push a human being out of an orifice."

[doularina]

I think it's a good idea to include your reason for becoming a doula or your interest in childbirth. As long as it's not "for the money" or "because my dead dog came to me in a dream", I think it can be indicative of the kind of person you are. My bio includes this and who I am outside of my doula work, ie. homemaker, mother, singer. Good luck.

[SamiNoodle]

Thanks to both of you. I took a lot of hints from the other women already on that website and it fits the pattern pretty well (sans experience). Since I wasn't asked to do a re-write I guess it was acceptable Here's what I turned in:

I am a new doula but have spent my life helping others. Becoming a doula is simply a transition in my life’s mission.

Believing that a woman’s body is perfectly designed to give birth and that she can do that best with constant companionship and support, it is my desire to be your helper. I would consider it an honor to be that soothing and nurturing presence for you and your family as you welcome your little one to the world.

Since early in life I have had a desire to work with birthing moms. When I first read an article on doulas I knew that this was what I was meant to be. In 2006 I did my doula training at Seattle Midwifery School and attended my first birth in 2007. Currently I am working towards DONA Certification and am delighted to be with PDX Doulas.

In my personal life I have been happily married to my husband of four years. We have 3 lovely cats who are my constant companions at home. In addition, I have passions for writing, cooking, church and music.

[bellymamadoula]

Thats really good! I'm writng my bio tonight and wanted to ask a question ot three:

shouldn't a professional Bio be written in third person? (this is what all my tests are telling me anyways. I know it looks more formal that way...)

and is it proper to capitalize the word "doula" as it's used as a title?

did you add a photo to your bio?

what do you think?

[bellymamadoula]

I'm sorry if I hijacked your thread--I was just so excited to see something so similar to what I was doing I posted without thiking! I don't know how to remove it. Sorry.

[hesperia]

Bump!

I remember reading many bios in third person too, why is that? And why should one do that?

Mine isn't in third, but I have plans on changing it tomorrow, so lets hear what you all think!