We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ebony Coleman. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ebony below.
Ebony , first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Overcoming imposter syndrome as a functional medicine provider, a 36-year-old mom, and a married mother of three while pursuing my master’s as a nurse practitioner has been a journey of self-discovery and resilience. One key strategy that has played a pivotal role in overcoming imposter syndrome is seeking wisdom from those around me.
Establishing a network of mentors, including my husband, has provided invaluable insights and guidance. His unwavering support, belief in my capabilities, and shared experiences have been instrumental in challenging the doubts that imposter syndrome often brings. His perspective as a trusted confidant and life partner adds a unique dimension to my journey, reinforcing my confidence and providing a stable foundation during challenging times.
Another significant aspect of conquering imposter syndrome has been my commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. By staying updated on the latest developments in functional medicine and actively engaging with ongoing education, I reinforce my confidence in my abilities. This dedication not only enhances my expertise but also serves as a constant reminder of my competence and dedication to my field.
Furthermore, my motivation is fueled by the positive outcomes and transformations witnessed in my clients. As I witness their improved health and well-being, I am reminded of the meaningful impact I have on their lives. Client success stories serve as powerful affirmations of my skills and reinforce my sense of purpose in the field of functional medicine.
In essence, overcoming imposter syndrome is an ongoing process rooted in seeking guidance, continuous education, and witnessing the positive impact of my work on clients, with the added support and mentorship of my husband. By embracing these strategies, I’ve cultivated a resilient mindset that allows me to navigate the challenges of being a wife, mother, functional medicine nurse practitioner with confidence and authenticity.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
As a functional medicine nurse practitioner, my focus centers on assisting women aged 30-40 who are grappling with inflammation and heightened stress levels. I engage with clients through personalized 1:1 sessions or within the Gut the Stress program crafted to guide them out of the fight-or-flight response, reduce toxic loads, and address health issues at their root cause.
What sets my approach apart is its comprehensive and transformative nature. By helping individuals transition away from the fight-or-flight mode, I not only address immediate health concerns but also contribute to their long-term well-being. The emphasis on reducing toxic load underscores a commitment to environmental and lifestyle factors that may contribute to inflammation and stress.
A distinctive aspect of my work is its potential to break generational curses. By focusing on healing from the root cause, I actively work to change not only the health trajectory of the individual but also influence the well-being of their family. This underscores the transformative power of interventions, extending beyond the individual to impact broader familial health.
The personalized approach of 1:1 interactions and program involvement reflects a deep commitment to understanding the unique needs of each client. This tailored strategy ensures that interventions are not only effective but also resonate with the individual circumstances and challenges faced by the women I work with.
In summary, my role as a functional medicine nurse practitioner goes beyond addressing immediate health concerns. It involves a transformative process that empowers women to break free from the cycle of stress and inflammation, fostering healing from the root cause. By doing so, I bring hope and well-being to individuals while actively working to change the health trajectory of families, contributing to a positive, lasting impact on generational health.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities that have been immensely impactful are:
Faith and Spirituality – Having the Lord with me as a Jesus follower:
Embracing my faith has been a guiding light throughout my journey. Trusting in a higher purpose and seeking divine guidance provided me with strength during challenges and a sense of purpose in my work. My advice for those early in their journey is to cultivate a strong foundation in their beliefs.
Continuous Learning – Being a Lifelong Learner Committed to Growing:
The commitment to lifelong learning has been instrumental in my professional development. In the ever-evolving field of healthcare, staying curious and adaptable is crucial. My advice is to embrace every opportunity for learning – attend workshops, pursue additional certifications, and stay informed about advancements in your field. Curiosity and a hunger for knowledge not only enhance your expertise but also keep you passionate about your work. In addition to that, is important to ensure you have a mentor that can guide you to prevent unnecessary delays in the process.
Advocacy for Knowledge – A Desire to Increase Knowledge for Healthcare Providers and Communities:
A strong desire to increase knowledge, not just for personal growth but to uplift healthcare providers and communities, has been a driving force. My advice is to foster a commitment to knowledge-sharing. Actively engage in conversations, share insights with peers, and contribute to the broader understanding of healthcare. By doing so, you not only contribute to the improvement of your profession but also empower communities with valuable information.
For those at the early stages of their journey, my overarching advice is to be intentional about developing these qualities:
Nurture Your Spiritual or Ethical Foundation: Establish a solid foundation that provides guidance and resilience in challenging times.
Embrace a Learning Mindset: Stay curious, seek out learning opportunities, and view challenges as chances to grow.
Share Knowledge: Actively contribute to the knowledge pool within your profession and community. By sharing insights, you not only enhance your understanding but also uplift others.
In combining these qualities, individuals can not only navigate their journey successfully but also contribute positively to the growth and well-being of their communities.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When I find myself overwhelmed, I have developed a multifaceted approach to regain balance and inner peace and get out of fight or flight. I engage in a combination of activities that nurture my mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being:
Prayer:
Turning to prayer is a cornerstone of my coping mechanism. It provides me with a sense of connection, peace, and a higher perspective. Engaging in prayer helps me release burdens and find solace in faith.
Reading the Bible:
Reading Bible encourages me and is a source of guidance and inspiration. It allows me to reflect on timeless wisdom, gain insights into life’s challenges, and find strength in the teachings that resonate with my beliefs.
Journaling:
Journaling serves as a therapeutic outlet for expressing my thoughts and emotions. Putting pen to paper helps me process feelings, identify patterns, and gain clarity on the root causes of my overwhelm. It’s a tool for self-reflection and understanding.
Breath Work:
Incorporating breathwork and mindfulness techniques is crucial for grounding myself in the present moment. Deep, intentional breathing helps alleviate stress, calm my mind, and foster a sense of relaxation. This practice allows me to regain control over my thoughts and emotions.
House Cleaning:
Engaging in physical activities like cleaning the house serves as a form of active meditation for me. The rhythmic motions and tangible results provide a sense of accomplishment. A tidy and organized space can also contribute to a more peaceful and focused mindset.
By combining these practices, I create a holistic approach to address overwhelm. It’s a blend of spiritual connection, self-reflection, mindfulness, and physical activity that helps me regain a sense of balance and calm amidst life’s challenges.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.wellnessredefined.org
- Instagram: _wellnessredefined
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WellnessRedefinedLLC/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ebony-coleman-aprn-fnp-c-42a94755/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@wellnessredefined
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@wellnessredefined