Growing Through Adversity with Dr. Manju Dawkins

Each time we face a fear, we learn more about our strengths and weaknesses, refining our skills and gaining confidence in our abilities. Fear is a natural reaction when we face something unfamiliar or challenging. From the anxiety of speaking in front of a crowd, the nerves before a big exam, or the discomfort of stepping out of our comfort zones, fear can feel like a heavy burden. When we find ourselves in situations that seem overwhelming or beyond our control, it can be tempting to doubt our abilities and consider giving up.

However, it’s often in these scary moments that we experience the greatest growth. When we push through our fears and face these challenges head-on, we uncover our true capabilities and strengths. Moreover, finding support from others can make a big difference. Surrounding ourselves with people who believe in us and offer encouragement helps us stay motivated. Their support can provide a boost when we are feeling low and remind us of our potential when we start to doubt ourselves. Ultimately, overcoming fear requires a combination of self-belief, perseverance, and a strong support network. As we navigate through life’s challenges, we develop a deeper understanding of our own strengths and weaknesses. 

Dr. Manju Dawkins is a caring doctor and mother who knows how scary needles can be. Her journey started when she saw the fear in her daughter's eyes during her first shots. As a dermatologist, she used numbing creams to ease the pain, but she knew it wasn’t enough. She saw that untreated pain was a common problem in medical care for both kids and adults. To find a better solution, Dr. Dawkins started Thimble. Thimble is changing how needle procedures are done, aiming to remove the pain and fear from shots and blood draws. Their solutions make these experiences more comfortable for everyone, helping patients and their care teams, and improving overall public health. Dr. Dawkins is dedicated to making sure no one has to endure needle pain and fear. Her work at Thimble is helping millions of people have a better, less painful healthcare experience.

In this episode with Dr. Manju Dawkins, we will learn about her inspiring journey of perseverance, hard work, and believing in oneself despite the challenges and doubts from others. Throughout the episode, Dr. Dawkins discusses the value of embracing challenges, learning from failures, and the need to quiet external noise to listen to one's inner voice. She also touches on the significance of taking breaks and allowing time for recovery, both physically and mentally, to maintain long-term health and well-being. Dr. Dawkins' journey is a testament to the fact that with the right mindset, support system, and determination, one can overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams. 

“A lot of people have opinions about you but they don't know you and what's inside of you. So take the time to quiet your noisy mind to know what you're capable of, what you're meant to do and what you deserve.”– Dr. Manju Dawkins

Topics Covered:

(00:00:34) Introducing our special guest, Dr. Manju Dawkins 

(00:01:13) A journey from sports to medicine

(00:03:05) Mindset of a Challenger

(00:05:15) Listen to yourself

(00:06:34) Celebrate small wins

(00:07:32) The Role of Supportive People

(00:08:33) Embracing endless growth 

(00:12:09) Love and compassion in healthcare

(00:15:09) What is medical dermatology?

(00:17:08) Advertisement: Are you prepared for life's unexpected challenges? Dr. Stephanie Pearson and her team of skilled advisors at Pearson Ravitz are here to help you guard your most valuable asset. Go to https://pearsonravitz.com/ to make sure you are protected today.

(00:18:50) Addressing patient pain and trust

(00:21:00) Healthcare for all

(00:23:12) What is the best thing Thimble Healthcare can offer?

(00:26:04) How faith and support lead to breakthroughs

(00:28:20)  Final TimeOut with Dr. Manju Dawkins: Shed fear and enjoy your unique journey

(00:30:10) The value of companionship

(00:31:21) Where to connect to Dr. Manju Dawkins

Key Takeaways: 

“It's the scary things that offer you the greatest growth and so sometimes things are so scary that all you can do is just put it all out there.”– Dr. Manju Dawkins

“Sometimes when people think you're overly challenged in life, that's actually when you shine.”– Dr. Manju Dawkins”  

“What people sometimes perceive as the destination might just be a stop along the way.”– Dr. Derrick Burgess  

“Every failure is there for a reason to teach us something and to take us onto the right path that we're supposed to be on.”– Dr. Manju Dawkins

“We must take care of ourselves if we are to take good care of other people because  when we sacrifice ourselves, that makes us not able to truly care for people in the way that they need to be cared for.”– Dr. Manju Dawkins

Connect with Dr. Manju Dawkins:

Website: https://thimblehealth.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thimble.health/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thimble.health/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thimblehealth/; https://www.linkedin.com/in/manju-dawkins-md-a0224359/

Connect with Dr. Derrick Burgess:

Website: https://www.drderrickthesportsdr.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drderrickthesportsdr/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimeOut.SportsDr

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-burgess-72047b246/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHGDu1zT4K_X6PnYELu8weg

Email: thesportsdoctr@gmail.com

This episode of TimeOut with the SportsDr. is produced by Podcast VAs Philippines - the team that helps podcasters effectively launch and manage their podcasts, so we don't have to. Record, share, and repeat! Podcast VAs PH gives me back my time so I can focus on the core functions of my business. Need expert help with your podcast? Go to www.podcastvasph.com.