10 Things I Learned In My First Year As A Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

I remember feeling so lost when I graduated from my dietetic internship last June. I had no idea what the future would hold, I was nearly broke and I was confused as to whether I even wanted to be a Registered Dietitian. Thankfully, I found a niche (or two!) that I really enjoy and I’m grateful for the experiences I’ve had. Here are the top 10 things I learned in my first year as an RD.

1. Diets don’t work. The shame we feel about our body makes us leave safe places (i.e. eating a variety of foods, listening to hunger cues, respecting fullness) to fit into the expectations of others or society (i.e. thin ideal).

2. I can’t give you a list of foods to eat everyday. It won’t work and it won’t be enjoyable.

There are so many things to consider before I tell you what to eat like your preference, access, schedule, previous feelings or struggles with food, etc.

3. Plus, when has telling someone what to do instead of helping them realize what works for them on their own ever really worked? Let’s stop telling people what to do and instead remind them who they are: human, children of God, complete in Him, not lacking anything (James 1:4)

4. Dietitians aren’t the food police (at least I hope not). If someone is promising you that they “don’t do diets” but also use words like “willpower” and use weight loss as the main goal – I’d steer clear.

5. Dietitians need more training in counseling, especially if they’re working in the eating disorder or disordered eating world. The issue is rarely just about food. Motivational interviewing is essential.

6. Everyone has their own coping mechanisms because life is challenging. Food is a coping mechanism for some, not eating is one for others. Over-exercising is another. Get to the “why” when working with someone. It matters.

7. You don’t have to have your dream job as your first job, and every job is a learning experience. However, you don’t have to say yes to every single opportunity offered to you. Every great experience does not have to be your experience.

8. Spending time connecting with other RDs, particularly in your niche, is super helpful. People want you to do well – there’s enough clients to go around! Instagram is a great opportunity for this (but you don’t have to follow everyone!).

9. Being healthy isn’t about scrutinizing every meal you eat and having anxiety about micronutrients. It’s about putting some thought into your food choices, considering the nutrients but also considering what tastes good. How you feel about what you eat is just important (and potentially more) than what you’re eating. Eat the rainbow. Eat carbs, protein and fats. Go out to eat.

Enjoy your life and the people and food in it.

10. Investing in professional development opportunities that inspire and intrigue you is very rewarding and encouraging. I have SO much left to learn it’s amazing and kind of overwhelming.