Empowering Women in Healthcare: Achieving Personal Wellbeing

Holli Bradish-Lane, Vol 1, Issue 6

Women make up nearly 80% of the healthcare workforce, leading with passion and purpose every day. But while we're busy caring for others, who's caring for us? If you're a woman in healthcare, you've likely experienced the constant juggling act—managing teams, patients, families, and your personal wellbeing. I’ve been there, and I know the toll it can take. It’s time we acknowledge that thriving in our roles requires more than just showing up—it demands that we prioritize ourselves too.

In this edition of DNAbold, I want to share some inspiring stories and practical strategies to empower women in healthcare (and beyond) to achieve personal wellbeing—because the stronger we are, the better we can lead.

My Personal Journey: Harnessing Strength from Adversity

My life is a testament to the power of adversity and the strength we can harness from it. Growing up in a hardworking family, I learned grit, tenacity, and self-determination early on. My father, a self-made man, built several successful businesses, while my mother was a pillar of strength. Despite being a shy, introverted child, I understood that perseverance leads to success.

In my mid-40s, life looked ideal—a fulfilling career in healthcare, a loving family, and close friendships. But, like many women, I struggled with weight and joint pain. It felt like I was always caring for others, but neglecting my own health. Then came the wake-up call: a breast cancer scare that brought me face-to-face with my mortality.

The fear and uncertainty of that experience changed everything. Once I received the all-clear, I knew I couldn’t keep living the same way. I had to take control of my health. Small steps—like reevaluating my diet and reigniting my teenage passion for running—led to big changes. I lost 60 pounds, relieved my knee pain, and regained my energy.

This transformation ignited my passion to help others. I knew I wasn’t alone in feeling overwhelmed and stuck, and I wanted to give women—especially in healthcare—the tools to achieve their own health transformations. With the power of DNA-based coaching, I found a way to personalize my approach to wellness, and now, I use it to empower others. My mission is simple: to make sure no woman feels alone in her journey to health and wellbeing.

Inspirational Stories of Women Leaders in Healthcare

1. Dr. Sara El-Hashem: A Journey to Work-Life Balance

As a rising star cardiologist, Dr. Sara El-Hashem often neglected self-care. Between her patients, career, and raising young children, burnout became a looming reality. It wasn’t until she began practicing mindfulness and setting boundaries that she found balance. Today, she mentors young women in medicine on how to excel without compromising their health.

Her advice: “You can’t pour from an empty cup. Take care of your health, and you’ll give more to those around you.”

2. Marie Gonzales: Nursing Leadership Through Personal Resilience

Marie, a nurse manager, led her team through the pandemic’s toughest days but was forced to confront her own health after a stress-induced heart episode. Marie began prioritizing nutrition, movement, and rest—now, she’s a champion for nurse wellbeing, speaking out about her journey and advocating for workplace wellness.

Her words: “As women, we’re natural caregivers, but we must learn to care for ourselves with the same dedication we give to others.”

3. Dr. Angela White: Redefining Leadership in Biomedical Research

Dr. Angela White, a trailblazer in research, faced intense pressure to compete and publish. Realizing that leadership couldn’t come from a place of exhaustion, she embraced wellness strategies like delegation and mental health prioritization. Her team’s productivity—and her own wellbeing—improved dramatically.

Angela’s message: “Leadership is about empowering others and creating space for your own health.”

5 Practical Wellbeing Tips for Women Leaders in Healthcare

1. Set Boundaries and Stick to Them Set clear lines between work and personal life—whether it’s limiting after-hours emails or carving out time for hobbies. Boundaries ensure you can thrive both at work and home.
2. Make Self-Care Non-Negotiable Small, consistent habits—exercise, journaling, sleep—can lead to significant health improvements. Remember, taking care of yourself directly impacts your effectiveness as a leader.
3. Build a Support Network Surround yourself with women who understand your challenges. Peer mentorship provides not only emotional support but also a sense of community.
4. Delegate and Empower Your Team You don’t have to do it all yourself. By empowering others, you’ll free up time for self-care and strategic thinking.
5. Prioritize Mental Health Take care of your mind as much as your body. Seek counseling, practice mindfulness, or take mental health days when needed.

Final Thoughts: Embracing Your Power and Potential

Women in healthcare are in positions of immense responsibility and influence. But true leadership starts with self-care. When we prioritize our health—physically, emotionally, and mentally—we not only excel but also become stronger role models for others.

As you continue your journey as a woman leader, ask yourself: How can I invest in myself today so I can continue making an impact tomorrow?

If you're ready to discover how your DNA can guide you toward optimal health and wellbeing, I’m here to help. My DNA-based coaching program offers personalized insights tailored to support your leadership journey, ensuring you can thrive in all areas of life.

Take the next step—join me on this journey of wellbeing. Together, we can lead with purpose and strength.