Changing my scrubs from being an International Dentist from India going to the International Student Program at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine to a faculty in Midwestern University College Of Dental Medicine Illinois took a long time but nevertheless, the day did come. It came through a strong sense of purpose, sheer grit, determination, & belief that no matter what I will achieve what I am set out to accomplish.
The journey was in no sense easy, but I am grateful for it. It made me the person I am today. I didn’t have much support in any way from anywhere. There were times when I thought I won’t be able to make it this time. I have seen the darkest of downs and brightest of ups personally and professionally, so I understand. But it’s being aware of myself and sticking to my core that got me through, every single time.
They say a picture is worth a thousand words. But can you really tell by looking at someone what goes behind the scenes and, what’s at the core of that person?
It’s the actions and the way the actions present themselves in all their forms that gives us away.
Ever since I was a little girl, the eldest one in four siblings, I was aware that I loved helping others, I loved teaching. It was my happy place.
After my father passed away, I wanted to help my mom take care of my younger siblings however I could. Teaching was a big part of it. Not just so that I could boss them around, but to set a good example for them as a big sister and share my knowledge, skills, and strengths while being in a happy place as an empath and a giver, which I was myself discovering as I was growing up.
As I was fighting along to accomplish my dreams and building my life, sticking to my core values was my force to be reckoned with, which helped me along the way.
Some people might call it stubborn and selfish. I call it being a woman with a strong core and values who knows what she wants for herself and her loved ones.
Whether supported by others or not supported, the point is to stick to your core values, stay true to yourself, and keep being what makes you who you are and keeps you at your happy place.
So, ask yourself what are the core values that make you the force to be reckoned with?
And, then attack those dreams like there is no tomorrow!!