Garlic Bread, Bacon, or A Slice Of Greatness

Your Attitude, not your Aptitude, determines your Altitude. - Zig Ziglar

Five months ago, I could not have told you that I would be an entrepreneur. Or that I would be working towards my dreams with courageousness and hunger. Confidence is integral to achieving your goals. If you don't believe in yourself and convince yourself EVERY DAY that you can accomplish your goals…your personal doubt will defeat you! My friend asked me a few months ago: "How are you so sure? How are you confident in knowing what you want?." My response: "I don't know everything but I am confident and have faith that I will figure it out!!"

Five months ago, my future career plans were headed in another direction until I met Elijah Desmond in Chicago at the Governance of Tomorrow Project meeting with the American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA). After a long day of working we all had dinner together as a group. Later that evening, it was by chance that I had the opportunity to sit next to Elijah. I had no clue who he was or what kind of impact he was about to have in my life. What I did know, he was "that guy" who forgot to bring his jacket in the dead of winter in Chicago!! Of all places! :)

He offered me three things that evening: 1. garlic bread, 2. bacon and 3. igniting my dying flame of greatness. I politely declined the garlic bread, ate the most amazing piece of bacon I ever had in my life (my vegan days are really over), and took on ending my life of mediocrity! I truly felt like I was going to combust after hearing a small fraction of his story. I realized at that moment with a sense of urgency that I wanted change, I wasn't happy, and I wasn't living through my passion.  It took me forever to grasp this one important point, I have control over my career.  No one else does! If you are Interested in hearing his inspiring story check out his interview with Mark RDH HERE. 

I finally realized that I was limiting myself. When I returned home, I played around with some ideas with my close friend Christie of Your Smiling Hygienist and took action. As a millennial RDH we tend to think: "I'll make my move once I have 25,30,35 years under my belt". At least that’s what I told myself, LOL. I may not have the 25 years under my belt but I still have a lot to say!  Elijah's story showed me that we could do what we envision if we take the proper actions now. We could make a decision to be happy in our careers now whether it’s in clinical practice, academia, research, or entrepreneurship. 

After making the decision that I needed change, I delved deeper into my personal and professional development. Here is a list of my must-haves that gave or are giving me a boost in my personal and professional development. 

1. Podcasts

A Tale of Two Hygienists

I can't tell you enough, you need to listen to this podcast NOW! I love listening to Andrew and Michelle. I get to learn about cool concepts, movers and shakers, and have a great time laughing with the hosts. They are my "BFFs" in my head. Ha!  My first podcast was with Cyndee Johnson of Scaler 2 Schedule. I was blown away and inspired! So much so that I had to start at episode 1 to not miss a beat. I haven't missed a week yet. 

The Charge Life

Brendon Burchard come in to my life by way of an advertisement on Facebook. I'm the first one to tell you don't click anything that says "MANIFESTO", LOL. Well I clicked something that led me to a free book entitled "Motivation Manifesto." It came with a 12-week course along with the reading. It got me out of a dark place of fear, bitterness, pain, and into the path of light with personal freedom. Since then, I've read another book, listen to his podcast, and occasionally watch his YouTube channel. 

Forbes Mentoring Moments

Another favorite Podcast! Hosted by Denise Restauri, hear remarkable leadership journeys from women of diverse backgrounds. Prepared to be inspired! My favorite interview is with Jane Wurwand, a self-made woman!

2. Audible

This has been my life saver as a busy mom. Along with podcasts, I love to listen to books. Currently, I am listening to On the Edge by Allison Levine.

3. Professional Conferences/ Meetings

Networking!!! I've met some amazing people all across the country with their own unique stories. It is in sharing our experiences that you can gain the momentum for change or just plain ol' inspiration to encourage you in your journey.

4. Professional Organization

My involvement with my professional organization the ADHA has brought countless benefits for my personal and professional growth.

I am so thankful that I was reminded of my slice of "greatness". It's in all of us and sometimes we have to be reminded of what we have to keep on truckin'. I try to do that by surrounding myself with like-minded professionals and friends by means of technology (podcasts, audible, etc) or in person. I am incredibly excited about my future and your future!  I can't offer you the garlic bread or that juicy slice of bacon but I can offer you a reminder of your own slice of greatness. It's up to you to determine what you will do with it. What do you hope to accomplish? What's holding you back? What are some ways you hope to boost your confidence? Let's start that conversation now!

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