If you’ve ever found yourself dreaming about balancing a demanding career with the joys and challenges of parenting, you’re not alone.
In today’s post, we’re diving into an inspiring interview with Dr. Victoria Johnson, MD, a trailblazing physician in aesthetic medicine.
Dr. Johnson’s journey from a single mother in Tupelo, Mississippi, to running a successful medical spa is a testament to perseverance, structure, and dreaming big. Let’s explore her remarkable story and the key strategies she used to balance the demands of medical school with raising a teenage daughter.
From Struggles to Success: Dr. Victoria Johnson’s Journey
Dr. Victoria Johnson’s path to becoming a doctor was anything but conventional. After finding herself in an abusive marriage, she made the courageous decision to pursue a medical degree as a single mom. Despite the overwhelming odds, she not only completed her medical education but also built a thriving practice with over 40,000 patients and a dedicated team.
Victoria’s daughter, Elena, was just 12 when Dr. Johnson embarked on her medical school journey. Now 45, Elena and her mother have a close relationship, reflecting the strong bond they maintained through years of adversity. Victoria’s story highlights that with intentional effort and a clear vision, it’s possible to achieve professional success while nurturing meaningful family relationships.
Success begins with a plan, but it’s built one step at a time.
The Power of Structure and Planning
One of the most striking aspects of Dr. Johnson’s story is her use of structure to manage her demanding schedule. Here are some key takeaways:
- The Refrigerator Calendar: Victoria and Elena used a weekly plan displayed on their refrigerator to keep track of their busy lives. This simple yet effective tool ensured that both mother and daughter knew where they needed to be and when, reducing anxiety and creating a sense of stability.
- Prioritizing Time Together: Despite the intensity of medical school, Victoria made it a priority to spend quality time with Elena. Whether it was a movie night or a special lunch, these moments of connection were crucial for maintaining their relationship.
- Adapting and Finding Support: When medical school and parenting responsibilities clashed, Victoria didn’t hesitate to seek help from others. Soccer parents and understanding professors provided essential support, while a close friend offered companionship and mutual assistance.
Daring to Dream Big
Victoria’s journey was driven by a powerful mindset: daring to dream big and staying focused on her goals. She emphasized the importance of setting clear, long-term objectives and not being discouraged by temporary setbacks.
- Visualizing Success: Victoria’s pre-med advisor encouraged her to think of her future in terms of achieving her goals. The mantra, “You’re going to be 40 anyway, you might as well be a doctor,” helped Victoria stay motivated through challenging times.
- Embracing the Journey: Dr. Johnson’s approach to goal-setting involved breaking down large dreams into manageable steps. By focusing on one step at a time and celebrating small victories, she maintained momentum and overcame obstacles.
- Never Giving Up: Victoria’s advice to other working moms is to remain resilient and persistent. She believes that regardless of the difficulties, if you stay committed to your vision and take consistent action, you can achieve your dreams.
Key Takeaways for Working Moms
Here are some actionable strategies from Dr. Johnson’s experience that can help you thrive as a working mom:
- Create a Structured Routine: Use tools like calendars or planners to organize your family’s schedule and keep everyone on track.
- Prioritize Quality Time: Ensure you carve out regular moments to connect with your children and maintain a strong relationship.
- Seek and Offer Support: Build a network of support with others who understand your challenges, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed.
- Stay Focused on Your Goals: Set clear, long-term goals and break them into smaller, actionable steps. Remember, perseverance and resilience are key to achieving your dreams.
Conclusion
Dr. Johnson’s story is more than just a personal success narrative; it’s a beacon of hope for anyone juggling multiple responsibilities. Her journey underscores that with clear goals, structured planning, and a willingness to seek support, it is possible to achieve both professional and personal fulfillment.
Remember, as Dr. Johnson aptly puts it, “You’re going to be 50 anyway, so you might as well be 50 and something.” Embrace your aspirations, take action, and don’t let anything hold you back. Whether you’re at the start of your journey or looking to push through a challenging phase, know that you have the power to shape your path and create the life you envision.
Until next time, keep dreaming big and taking those daily steps toward your goals!
If you like more conversations about thriving and living fully as a working mom, check out my podcast, The Savvy Working Mom, on Spotify or anywhere you listen to your podcasts. We also talk a lot about prioritization, time management, how to be more fulfilled, and how to find peace in this overwhelming world we live in.
Don’t forget to sign up for my free resource library. You’ll get free printable worksheets, workbooks, and checklists to help with goal setting, time management, and self-care for busy moms.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, follow these 4 easy steps to find some peace: How To Get Unstuck.
