personal development — Blog

Silent Ambition: Let Your Success Speak Louder Than Your Words

Once, I excitedly shared a promising business idea with a colleague, hoping to team up and bring it to life together. Instead of collaboration, I received a polite decline. Months later, I was taken aback to discover that my colleague had launched a business—selling the very idea I had shared with her.

In a world where oversharing is the norm, where every meal and milestone is broadcasted on social media, it may seem counterintuitive to keep your ambitions under wraps. But in reality, there's immense power in working quietly and letting your success make the noise.

Designing Your Life with Purpose and Freedom

In today’s world we often equate success with material wealth and possessions. It's easy to get caught up in the rat race of accumulation. Whether you're climbing the corporate ladder in a 9-5 job or running your own business, the pressure to chase after money and status can feel overwhelming. However, there's a different approach—one that prioritizes intentional living and designing your life around what truly matters.

Intentional living is about aligning your actions and choices with your values and goals, rather than simply going through the motions dictated by societal norms or external expectations. It's about consciously crafting a life that brings you joy, fulfillment, and a sense of purpose, regardless of your financial situation or professional aspirations.

Lifestyle & Travel, MotherhoodDr. Patrice SmithFebruary 21, 2024twelve, personal development, professional development, motherhoodComment

Why I Have a Weekly family Business Meeting

In the bustle of modern life, finding a delicate balance between work and family can be akin to walking a tightrope. As an orthodontist and practice owner alongside my husband, a general dentist, with a lively two-year-old in tow, life is a constant juggling act. Amidst the myriad responsibilities, we've found a beacon of organization and harmony in an unexpected place: the weekly family business meeting.

Our family, much like a business, requires strategic planning and, most importantly, regular check-ins. The weekly family business meeting has become our compass, guiding us through the maze of tasks, appointments, and familial responsibilities. It's a designated time to synchronize our calendars, discuss the upcoming week's events, and ensure we're all on the same page.

23 Goals for 2023 End of year Check-In

As this year comes to a close, I find myself revisiting the 23 goals I set for myself in my "23 Goals for 2023" blog post at the beginning of this year. Along the way, I provided a mid-year check-in to update you on my progress, and here we are now, at the end-of-year check-in, evaluating how far I've come and what I've achieved.

2023 turned out to be more challenging than I anticipated. While I didn't quite accomplish all 23 goals I set, I managed to achieve the more meaningful ones. As the year unfolded, I had to prioritize certain things over others. It's been a year of growth, of learning to appreciate the small things, and understanding the true essence of wealth – family, health, and simple moments of joy.

Books I Read In 2023

As an enthusiastic reader, diving into a captivating book brings me immense joy. The act of losing oneself within the pages of a book offers relaxation and a myriad of benefits, such as expanding knowledge, enhancing brain function, improving focus and memory, providing entertainment, fostering empathy, refining communication skills, and reducing stress – among other positive impacts that extend to mental health and longevity.

In the span of 2023, I set out to conquer the challenge of reading 23 books. Admittedly, my life has taken on a different pace this year, juggling responsibilities as a mother and a business/practice owner. Despite the time constraints, I'm thrilled to share that I delved into 20 books this year, with 12 of them shared within the context of my book club. Navigating this busy schedule, I found solace in audiobooks – an aspect that enriched my reading experience in unexpected ways. Embracing audiobooks became a game-changer; they allowed me to multitask, enabling me to engage with books while carrying out various activities throughout the day. The flexibility and convenience they offer are truly remarkable.

Dr. Patrice SmithDecember 30, 2023twelve, books, 2023 books, book club, personal development, professional developmentComment

Discovering True Wealth: The New Rich

In a world often measured by financial wealth, the concept of true richness extends beyond bank accounts and possessions. It’s about acknowledging the overlooked treasures that enrich our lives, nurturing our spirits and granting us a sense of fulfillment. Welcome to "The New Rich," where abundance transcends monetary figures and instead resides in the simple yet profound aspects of existence.

What if our genuine wealth is rooted in the things we often take for granted? Imagine waking up to a sunrise, feeling the gentle morning breeze, or savoring the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. These simple pleasures, often overlooked in the rush of daily life, compose the fabric of true richness. It's about relishing the unhurried moments that embrace our souls, granting us a profound sense of fulfillment.

Embracing Life's Changing Seasons

Life is an intriguing journey, a winding path that takes us through various stages, each molding our priorities and reshaping our perspectives. As I reflect on my own journey, I've come to realize that our priorities are ever-shifting, mirroring the different chapters of our lives.

In my early twenties, my fervent aspiration was to become an orthodontist. The drive for success and ambition surged within me, propelling me toward my professional goals. I dedicated tireless hours to study, embracing every opportunity to advance my career.

As my late twenties unfolded into the early thirties, my focus shifted gears. I found myself immersed in building my career, relishing in accomplishments and accolades.

Motherhood, Lifestyle & TravelDr. Patrice SmithNovember 15, 2023twelve, personal development Comments

Living a Fulfilling Life: Balancing a Successful Career and Personal Happiness

As a busy professional, it can become all too easy to lose sight of the importance of maintaining a balance between career success and personal happiness. We can become so consumed with work and the pressures that come with it, that we forget about the things that truly matter. However, the good news is that it is possible to lead a fulfilling life while juggling a successful career and maintaining a happy personal life. Let this guide shared by The UnOrthoDoc help you strike that balance between work and happiness.

Finding and Walking in Purpose: Strategies and Resources for a Fulfilling Life

Finding one's purpose in life and walking in that purpose is a profound and deeply personal journey. It is a pursuit that can lead to a life of meaning, fulfillment, and happiness. Many people spend their entire lives searching for their purpose, and while it may not be a linear path, there are strategies and resources that can help you in this quest. In this blog post, we will explore how to find your purpose and how to actively walk in it.

Lifestyle & TravelDr. Patrice SmithOctober 24, 2023personal development, twelveComment

How To Become a 1099 Employee and Why It Is Beneficial

The landscape of the workforce is continually evolving, and traditional employment is not the only option for those seeking financial independence and flexibility. One alternative that has gained popularity in recent years is becoming a 1099 employee, often referred to as a freelancer or independent contractor. In this blog post, we'll explore what it means to become a 1099 employee and why it can be a highly beneficial career choice.

Dr. Patrice SmithOctober 11, 2023twelve, financial development, personal development

The Art of Everyday Luxury: Elevating Your Daily Life

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to overlook the beauty and luxury that can be found in the small moments. We often reserve indulgence and lavish experiences for special occasions, forgetting that we have the power to create a sense of everyday luxury right in our own lives. In this blog post, we will explore practical tips and ideas on how to add small touches of luxury to your everyday routine. From self-care rituals to creating an inviting home environment, let's unlock the art of everyday luxury and inspire ourselves to live life to the fullest.

Lifestyle & Travel, MotherhoodDr. Patrice SmithJuly 12, 2023self care, personal development, elevenComment

Crafting Your Personal Brand: A Pathway to Success

In today's digitally connected world, personal branding has emerged as a powerful tool to distinguish oneself and create a lasting impression. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a creative professional, or someone seeking to enhance your career prospects, cultivating a strong personal brand is essential. In this blog post, we'll explore the key steps to create a personal brand that authentically represents you and sets you apart from the crowd.

Unlocking the Power of Daily Habits for Personal Growth and Success

In our quest for personal growth and success, it's easy to get caught up in big goals and grand plans. However, the secret to lasting transformation lies in the daily habits we cultivate. In this blog post, we'll explore the immense power of daily habits and how they can propel you towards your goals. Get ready to unleash your potential and embrace a more fulfilling life.

Lifestyle & TravelDr. Patrice SmithJune 28, 2023personal development, elevenComment

24 Months Being a Mom & The Balancing Act It Comes With

My son, Braxton turns 2 today and I honestly do not know how to feel or act. As I sit down to reflect on the past 24 months, I am struck by how fast time has flown by, yet at the same time, how it feels like an eternity since the moment I held my little one in my arms for the very first time. Being a mother has been the most transformative experience of my life, and I am grateful for every moment of it, the highs, the lows, and everything in between.

How to Find Work-Life Balance as a Working Parent: Tips and Tricks from an “Unorthodoc” Mom

Are you a working parent struggling to balance work and family life? Don't worry, you're not alone! Finding work-life balance can be a challenge, but there are tips and tricks that can help. As an "UnOrthoDoc" mom, I know firsthand how important it is to prioritize balance, accept help, create boundaries, and take time for yourself. Balancing work and family life isn't always easy, but with some effort and these tips, you can find solutions that work for you.

Retirement Planning for Young Professionals in 2023

If you’ve been a reader here for a while you know that financial development is one of my favorite topics, especially when it comes to retirement planning. It is never too early (or late) to start saving towards your retirement! The past several years have made saving and investing a bit challenging but if I had any advice for a place to park what little money you may have left over for investing, it would be in a retirement account.

Everything You Need To Know About Web3

Web3 is the next era of the internet, where users are in control of their data and applications. Many businesses and tech experts have been predicting its rise for years, and it is finally starting to become a reality! If you want to learn more about Web3, check out our guide to everything you need to know.

Professional FinancialDr. Patrice SmithDecember 14, 2022professional development, personal development, eleven, cryptocurrency, cryptoComment

6 Trends That Will Affect The Future Of Advertising

The advertising sector constantly evolves along with time passing, especially with the emergence of new technologies and innovative trends. These inventions transformed how marketers operate, from creating content to fulfilling their responsibilities. For instance, the internet and social media have become the most effective platform for businesses to advertise their products and interact with customers today.

Leading an “UnOrthoDoc” Life and How You Can Too

You probably landed on my blog or have been a long time reader and wondered, what does she even mean by The UnOrthoDoc? UnOrthoDoc is a word I totally made up that became sort of my personal brand. By my definition, it is (n) someone who does not subscribe to stereotypes of what he/she should be, do or look like (adj): Contrary to what is usual; different. It is a play on words, taken from the word Unorthodox meaning to be different. Therefore, by definition, you may also be UnOrthoDoc.

Dr. Patrice SmithNovember 16, 2022professional development, personal development, motherhood, elevenComment

How To Set Short-Term Financial Goals for Yourself

Your lifestyle and risk tolerance with money is different from everyone else’s. How you approach your finances is entirely unique. Regardless of how you spend and save money, it’s helpful to establish short-term financial goals if you want to achieve financial security.