Life's Unexpected Turns in an Entrepreneurial Experience
As the founder of Connecting Dot By Dot, a company providing behavioral therapy to individuals with autism, Dr. Maryam Vosogh, PsyD, BCBA-D, has navigated the complexities of entrepreneurship while maintaining a steadfast commitment to her core values. Her experiences offer insight for anyone looking to grow in their professional life, manage stress, and embrace new challenges.
We'll explore Maryam's journey, examining how unexpected turns in life can lead to remarkable growth and opportunities. We'll look at her approach to entrepreneurship, her strategies for maintaining balance, and the wisdom she's gained from facing personal and professional challenges. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a professional seeking growth, or simply someone looking for inspiration to embrace life's uncertainties.
From Psychology to Autism Specialist
Originally planning to pursue a career in psychotherapy and private practice, Maryam found herself facing an unexpected hurdle during her final year of graduate school. Unable to secure her desired internship placement, Maryam was initially devastated, feeling as though her carefully laid plans were crumbling around her.
Through a chance opportunity, she found herself interning at a developmental center, working with individuals with developmental disabilities. This unexpected opportunity opened her eyes to a new world of possibilities and eventually led her to specialize in Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Maryam’s experience helps us see that sometimes, the most significant growth opportunities arise from situations that initially appear to be setbacks. By remaining open to new experiences and embracing the unexpected, she discovered a passion and expertise that would shape her entire career trajectory.
Building a Business from the Ground Up
After gaining experience working for others in the field of autism and learning from her employers, Maryam felt a growing urge to create something based on her own experiences. Despite the comfort and security of her position, she recognized an inner drive for more impact, more freedom, and more opportunity to shape the quality of care provided to individuals with autism.
Taking the leap into entrepreneurship was not without its challenges. Maryam faced financial uncertainties, the pressure of building a team, and the responsibility of ensuring quality care for her clients. Her commitment to her vision and her belief in her abilities propelled her forward.
Maryam's approach to building her business, Connecting Dot By Dot, came from a desire to create positive change. She focused on forming a team that shared her values, emphasizing transparency, communication, and a dedication to providing the highest quality of care. This foundation has been crucial to her company's success and continues to guide her leadership style today.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
When Maryam was diagnosed with stage zero breast cancer at the age of 41. This diagnosis came as a shock, presenting her with one of the most significant challenges she had faced. In response, she chose to approach this obstacle with the same determination and problem-solving mindset that had served her well in her professional life.
During her experience with cancer, Maryam learned valuable lessons about balance, self-care, and the importance of transparency. She decided to be open with her team about her diagnosis, reinforcing the culture of communication she had worked hard to establish in her company. This not only allowed her to receive support but also set an example of vulnerability and strength for her employees.
The experience of facing cancer reinforced Maryam's belief in the importance of trusting one's instincts and making informed decisions. It also deepened her appreciation for life's unpredictability and the need to find balance between professional ambitions and personal well-being.
Navigating Cultural Expectations and Personal Aspirations
As a woman of Middle Eastern descent who has lived in multiple countries, Maryam has had to navigate a complex interplay of cultural expectations and personal aspirations. Her journey as an entrepreneur and independent woman has sometimes diverged from traditional expectations, presenting unique challenges in both her personal and professional life.
Maryam's approach to these challenges has been characterized by self-reflection, honesty, and a commitment to staying true to herself. She choses to make informed decisions based on one's own values and desires, rather than solely adhering to societal or cultural norms.
In her personal life, this has meant redefining success and happiness on her own terms. Whether it's in her approach to relationships, career choices, or lifestyle decisions, Maryam advocates for a balanced perspective that honors one's cultural heritage while also embracing personal growth and individual aspirations.
Embrace the Challenges
Dr. Maryam Vosogh's story is an example of resilience, adaptability, and self-trust. Her journey from aspiring psychotherapist to autism specialist and successful entrepreneur demonstrates that life's unexpected turns can lead to extraordinary opportunities for growth and fulfillment.
As you consider your own path, whether in your career, personal life, or both, embrace unexpected opportunities, trust your instincts, maintain transparency and open communication, seek balance and stay true to yourself.
As you prepare to take your first steps in a new direction or try something new, note that every journey is unique.Your path may not be straight, but it can be extraordinarily rewarding if you approach it with courage, resilience, and an open heart.
