We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Chino Erokwu Powell a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Chino, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
Over the years, I have learned that being the only one in the room makes me not only the exception but exceptional. If the room is full of people other than people like me, then the decision makers (or whoever/whatever led us to this moment) have decided that I am worthy to participate despite my differences. My talent and ability is shining far beyond not being the stereotypical person for the role. I learned to embrace this as the super power that it is.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am a General Dentist. I am proficient in many dental procedures such as fillings, crowns, root canals, bridges, dentures, implants, and more. Creativity is what excites me the most about dentistry. I lean into creativity in my technical skills since no 2 cases are exactly the same. Creativity also shines through my planning of treatment. If good, better, and best options are presented to a patient, and they chose good then we have still done them a service by improving their current situation. I love that no 2 days are the same. I love helping people in any way possible.
I also serve on as a board member for the BGG Foundation. The BGG Foundation is a local nonprofit dedicated to empowering the youth through gaming. We help provide college scholarships and opportunities in the gaming industry for kids who are passionate about gaming. We are able to use gaming as a hook to lead them towards bettering their lives in the future with opportunities. It is extremely rewarding to be a part of an organization like this that helps students turn hobby into something much greater. Our tournaments and events are filled with so much joy.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Two impactful skills that were helpful in my journey are persistence self awareness.
Finding my way in my career and achieving my goals was not always linear. Setbacks are completely normal. With a persistent mindset, I was able to not let set backs deter me.
Being self aware is critical in so many ways. Self-awareness is critical in achieving success because it acts as the foundation for personal growth and effective decision making. When you’re self-aware, you understand your strengths, weaknesses, emotions, triggers, and values. An honest self assessment allowed me to hone in on what really needed improvement.
It is cliché, but staying focused on your goals will help you. You have to know internally that you are capable and be willing to do whatever it takes. Be confident! The people who have done it before you are not more special than you by any means. Place yourself on a journey of constant and never ending improvement, and the goals will come easy. Mindset is everything!
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
When I feel overwhelmed, I always take a step back. I put my work down and take a mental break. Sometimes I decompress with a quick scroll break to laugh and get my mind off of things. If I have more time, the best strategy is to take a walk outside. Research has shown that walking outside boosts mood, reduces stress, and enhances creativity. I absolutely feel those benefits every time I take a walk. I come back feeling refreshed and ready to tackle my work.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bigbenddentalcare.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1APmXpDY7k/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chino-erokwu-powell-dmd-40137850?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
