A lesson I wish I learned earlier in life is this: real happiness is found in the anticipation. It’s the quest. It’s the hunt. It’s the process. It’s the journey. It’s the moment right before you achieve it. Happiness is not in the having, but in the becoming.

So often, we measure our joy by milestones—the graduation, the certification, the promotion. We convince ourselves that happiness lives on the other side of achievement. But the truth? The magic is in the climb, not just the peak.

Think about the last time you pursued a goal. The late-night studying, the feeling of finally “getting” a difficult concept, the anticipation of seeing yourself grow—that’s where transformation happens. That’s where pride takes root. The process is the gift.

When we shift our mindset from rushing to the destination to embracing the journey, we unlock a deeper sense of fulfillment. Every step forward is already success in motion. Every challenge faced is already growth underway. Every moment of “becoming” is proof that we’re moving toward who we’re meant to be.

This is especially true for those called to serve in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Becoming a Registered Behavior Technician® (RBT®) isn’t just about passing an exam—it’s about preparing yourself to make a lasting difference in the lives of children, families, and communities.

That’s why ATCC’s 2026 40-Hour RBT Training Course was designed with the journey in mind. It’s not just a course—it’s a transformative process. Every module, every lesson, every hour is a step toward becoming the professional you aspire to be.

As you reflect on the joy of becoming, we’ve added a special resource to support your growth. In this video from our YouTube channel — Chapter 3: Positive & Negative Reinforcement — you’ll explore how reinforcement shapes behavior and why it’s one of the most powerful tools in ABA.