Meet Janet Bringuez Sanchez

We recently connected with Janet Bringuez Sanchez and have shared our conversation below.

Janet, thanks for taking the time to share your lessons with our community today. So, let’s jump right in – one of the most essential skills for unlocking our potential is self-discipline. Where does your self-discipline come from?

Growing up, my sister and I knew our household was different than many of our friends’. Our father was a veteran, a man shaped by years of service and sacrifice. Discipline was not just a word in our home—it was a way of life, woven into the fabric of our daily routines and interactions. My mother also instilled self-discipline into our daily routines. They believed structure started with the simplest things at a young age—making our beds, a tidy room. Chores were never a punishment but an opportunity to contribute and build responsibility. They taught us to value punctuality, insisting that being on time was a sign of respect for others and ourselves.

At school, these small lessons gave me confidence and a sense of order. Homework was completed before play, and our commitments were honored, no matter how small. My parents encouraged me to be honest and accountable for my actions, reminding me that integrity was a pillar of self-discipline.

Even when I stumbled, my parents were there to guide me back. My Dad rarely raised his voice but made sure I reflected on my mistakes, learned from them, and moved forward. If I failed a test or forgot a chore, he’d ask what went wrong and how I could improve. His approach wasn’t harsh—it was purposeful, focused on growth rather than punishment.

As I grew older, the self-discipline instilled by my parents became part of my identity. The routines they taught me turned into habits and values carried into adulthood.

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 serve as the Director of Programs for Community Engagement at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, where I lead the Medical Scholars Pathway Programs—initiatives designed to nurture and prepare future physicians. A proud Cuban American, first-generation college student. I’m a passionate advocate for broadening access and fostering belonging in healthcare. Through strategic programming and partnerships, I focus on creating inclusive, supportive environments that equip aspiring medical professionals with the tools, mentorship, and opportunities needed to thrive academically, professionally, and personally.

I am a wife and mother. In my “ME” time, I love sitting by the ocean as well as practicing yoga.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Reflecting on my journey, the three most impactful qualities shaped by self-discipline were resilience, accountability, and the ability to achieve goals. Resilience came from facing setbacks and learning to move forward with patience and determination. Accountability was instilled through daily routines and honest reflection, teaching me to take responsibility for my actions. The ability to achieve goals came from the structure I embraced early on—a foundation that transformed ambition into accomplishment.

For those just starting out, my advice is to embrace routines that foster consistency—small daily habits can lead to big changes over time. Don’t shy away from mistakes; instead, view them as learning opportunities and reflect on how to improve. Finally, be intentional about setting clear, achievable goals, and celebrate even small progress along the way.

To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?

Of all the gifts my parents have given me, ensuring I received a strong education stands out as the most impactful. Their commitment to my learning opened doors I never imagined and gave me the confidence to pursue my ambitions. This has also deeply shaped the way I parent my own son. Recognizing the long-term value of a strong education, I am intentional about helping him understand that academic effort is not just about grades, but about building character and opening doors for his future. I strive to pass on the same sense of responsibility and respect for learning, encouraging him to approach school with dedication and an awareness of how these habits will serve him throughout his life.