Achieving the dream requires an internal GPS focused on strategy, direction, consistent growth, and ethical behavior.
I was told as a child that anything was possible. My parents taught me a dream is the precursor to reality. Innovation is the norm; accepting status quo was accepting a stale life. Mentors demonstrated what can happen when you look beyond the symptoms and drill down to the root cause. My children provided the opportunity to see the world anew through their eyes — and it was a good thing.
My professional journey began as a social worker focused on chronic disease and death and dying. Over the years, the path included non-profit health care organizations, clinical practice leadership, hospital and health system strategy, entrepreneurial healthcare endeavors, and teaching. Along the road, there were amazing people — rich and poor, educated and street smart, weak and strong, healthy and trying to achieve a healthier life. Each bend, bump, or impasse brought about unique experiences, challenges, and opportunities. My internal GPS always brought me back to the individual — their needs, hopes, dreams, and health.
The end of the journey always brings me back to what is really important — family. This is the dream that did come true.