The year 2025 was one of the most remarkable years of my life. I felt compelled to capture it in a two-part article
Series 1: A reflection on my journey to becoming a CST, and
Series 2: A look back at the year as a whole.
This is Series 1: A reflection on my journey to becoming a CST
On May 1, 2025, in Munich, I heard the words that transformed a dream into reality: “Congratulations, you are an approved CST! You cleared the TAC in your first attempt”
In that moment, I became CST. The feeling was no less than winning an Oscar.
This journey of becoming a CST has been profoundly transformative—both as a trainer and as an individual. I experienced countless learnings, and here are a few reflections from that journey: (These learnings are entirely my own, based on my personal experience. They are not related to or directed at anyone else.)
What This Journey Taught Me
- Hard work, dedication, and commitment truly pay off: Becoming a CST is a journey rooted in building relationships—through co-training, coaching, conferences, and continuous learning.
- Growth happens through continuous improvement: Working alongside brilliant minds and global experts pushes you to elevate your skills and broaden your perspective.
- Reflection and feedback are your compass: Every co-training and coaching interaction presents an opportunity to inspect, adapt, and grow.
Key Takeaways From My TAC Interview and Simulation:
- Confidence and deliberate preparation are your biggest assets.
- Stay calm and grounded—your energy sets the tone for the room.
- Practice your simulations thoroughly.
- Be honest and authentic; it naturally reflects in your answers and your teaching style.
- Keep your sessions interactive and engaging.
- Be conscious of your body language—avoid turning your back to the audience while writing or using gestures that may seem pointed.
- Respect the timebox and manage it well.
- Bring your own experiences into the learning space—they make your teaching relatable.
- Simplify concepts using stories, metaphors, and real-life examples.
- Continuously validate participants’ understanding.
- Address questions thoughtfully without deviating from the core topic.
This entire journey of preparing for the CST has been one of the most meaningful and enriching chapters of my professional life. Every co-training, every feedback session, every conversation with mentors, and every moment of self-reflection shaped me in ways I didn’t expect.
Looking back, the journey was exciting, fulfilling, and transformative. It challenged me, inspired me, and expanded my horizons. And now, being CST fills me with gratitude and joy, and one that I will carry with me for years to come. I feel immensely proud to be part of the CST community!!!!
