I believe that the success of South Coast Orthodontics will always be intrinsically tied to the contentment and happiness of our team members. We can’t show up and be the best for our patients if we don’t show up and be the best for ourselves.
Of course, there are many factors that determine and support a person’s mental fitness at any given point in time, but one that is vital is work life balance, as what we do outside of work is just as important as what we do at work. There is a strong symbiotic relationship.
Life’s not all about the grind. Let’s start with myself.
When I’m not transforming smiles, you can find me at the great outdoors, fueling my adrenaline-seeking soul through dirt biking and skiing with my kids. These aren’t just hobbies; they’re thrilling escapades that allow us to bond, share laughter, and create unforgettable memories.
Dirt biking is my escape into a world of rugged trails and messy farm adventures; a nod to part of my youth growing up at Picton. The roar of the engine and the rush of wind against my face as I navigate through twists and turns provide a sense of freedom that’s hard to match. Here, I’m reminded of life’s challenges—sometimes rocky, sometimes smooth—but always worth the ride. It’s about embracing the unexpected, pushing boundaries, and savouring every moment of the journey.
When winter rolls around, I trade my dirt bike for skis and glide down Thredbo and other local slopes, feeling the exhilaration of carving through fresh powder. Skiing is my dance with nature, and each run down the slope is an opportunity to connect with my three kids, cheering each other on as we tackle challenges and engage in sneaky snow fights together. These adventures teach resilience, teamwork, and the importance of finding joy in both the downs and ups.
Just like crafting a beautiful smile, these outdoor activities require patience, practice, and a little bit of daring. They remind me that life is a balancing act, where every twist and turn can lead to something beautiful if we embrace it fully.
However, not all adventures are outdoors. A shining example is my colleague, Dr. Anél Blignaut, who is on a mission to conquer dance floors. After a long love affair with pilates and Xtend Barre, Anél found herself craving something more exhilarating. So, she took a leap of faith and leapt into jazz and hip-hop dance, which has been nothing short of transformative. Ever seen an orthodontist break moves to Eminem, Drake, Jay-Z, Beyoncé and Snoop Dogg? Now you can.
In a world that often equates dance with youth, Anél stands firm in her belief that we are never too old to try something new. This philosophy has become her guiding light as she embraces the challenges of learning new dance styles. With every class, she’s reminded of the beauty of stepping out of her comfort zone; a lesson she shares with her orthodontic patients who are on their own journeys toward a straighter smile.
The energy of jazz and the infectious beat of hip-hop have ignited a creative spark in Anél that beautifully complements her professional life. Dance is her canvas for self-expression, a way to connect with others, and a joyful respite from the demands of orthodontics. It’s a celebration of life, and with every pirouette and hip-hop move, she finds herself letting go of stress and embracing the joy of movement.
As she delves deeper into this new passion, Anél is discovering an incredible community of fellow dancers who inspire and uplift each other. It’s a beautiful reminder that learning is a lifelong journey, much like the path to achieving the perfect smile.
As dedicated orthodontists at South Coast Orthodontics, we pour our hearts into our work, helping patients achieve their dream smiles. However, nurturing our passions outside the clinic is equally vital for our happiness and well-being. Whether it’s the adrenaline rush of dirt biking and skiing or the soulful expression of dance, these hobbies enrich our lives and enhance the care we provide.
We encourage everyone to explore their interests, embrace new challenges, and dive headfirst into what brings them joy. Life is a grand adventure filled with movement; both in body and spirit. So, what are you waiting for? There are plenty of trails, mountains, beaches and dance studios all across the Illawarra.
Discover your passion, find your tribe and explore your potential.
Yours sincerely,
Dr Kamal Ahmed
P.S. Why couldn’t the bike stand up by itself?
It was two tired.
