3 Things I Learned From a Broken Toothbrush

I applied too much pressure.

I pushed too hard.

It broke.

The toothbrush just couldn’t hold up to the pressure.

What does this mean for me and my business?

First, it reminds me that all of us, including my toothbrush, have a limit.?

There’s only so much pressure we can take before we break.?

This broken toothbrush is how I felt in the last few years of working at CVS.

I tried to perform my duties as a pharmacist to the best of my abilities.

I came in early. I stayed late.

I tried so hard to keep the pharmacy from sinking but my efforts just weren’t enough.

After years of emotional abuse by some of the people that I worked with, the customers, and even other providers, I broke.

I felt useless.

I felt like I had no value.?

I felt like I couldn’t go on.

I didn’t want to be a pharmacist anymore.

But, God provided me a way out.

Second, this broken toothbrush reminds me that none of us are immune to breaks.

And, if I’m not careful, I could break again.

I could be back in the same situation I was in, just in a different location.

In case no one has told you, starting your own business is hard.

I had no idea exactly what I was getting myself into, but no one does.

The success or failure of my business is dependent on me.

I can’t blame anyone else if it fails.

I have to show up everyday, even when I’m tired or don’t feel like it.

But, I also have to balance that with taking breaks.

I have to take time for myself because if I put too much pressure on myself then I will break again.

Third, I know that if I try to put the toothbrush back together, I won’t be able to restore it to its exact original form.

I was able to put myself back together after leaving CVS.

But, I am not the same person or pharmacist that I was before and I’m thankful for that.

Do you feel broken too?

If so, please know that you are not alone.

There is hope.

I am living proof that you can escape and find a new place where you feel fulfilled.

You don’t have to be broken anymore.

You can put yourself back together.

-Melissa