Latasha Garrett’s life looks a lot different now than it did several years ago, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. Not only did Garrett open her own pediatric dentistry practice, but she’s also recently married with a stepdaughter at home and hopes to add children of her own to the family dynamic. All of this change has meant that Garrett has had to become adept at managing life’s many demands. While she’ll be the first to admit she’s still learning how to juggle all of her responsibilities, she’s finding success in the here and now by staying committed to healthy eating, family time, regular exercise, and plenty of rest and relaxation.
What is your approach to wellness?
Wellness encompasses various aspects of physical, mental, and emotional health. My approach to wellness consists of eating a healthy diet, drinking plenty of water, working out at the gym two to three times a week, riding my bicycle on the weekends, and getting at least seven hours of sleep to allow my body to rest and rejuvenate. I prioritize self-care and engage in activities that bring me joy and relaxation.
What are your favorite ways to practice self-care?
Pampering myself with a facial and massage for a spa day is my favorite way to practice self-care.
What are the traits you most value in yourself?
Resilience – despite the many challenges life has brought my way, I have continued to move forward and adapt to change. And optimism – having a positive outlook has helped me to overcome my challenges while improving my mental and emotional well-being.
What are some of your current goals and what are you doing to work toward them?
Growing my business is my current goal, and I am in the process of expanding the practice so we can see more patients.
How do you approach emotional well-being?
I am always trying to improve my emotional state. Being a business owner can be stressful at times, but it is important to stay calm and in control. At times, I have to manage my emotions by taking deep breaths, exercising, and using relaxation techniques. I also have positive relationships with friends and family. Being able to share my feelings with people I trust helps provide emotional support.
What does your daily routine look like?
I wake up and have breakfast at home before heading to work. I start work at 8 a.m. and head home around 5 p.m. to have dinner with my family. We go for a walk in the neighborhood, and if time permits, we play a game of Uno or Ticket to Ride before heading to bed to get a good night’s rest.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Choose a job you love and you will never work a day in your life.
What do you find the most rewarding?
Making a difference in someone’s life and seeing them smile or laugh.
How do you encourage health and wellness within your family?
We eat healthy meals together by cooking and making it a family activity, and we walk around the neighborhood before preparing for bed.
What have been some of your recent challenges? Have you found any solutions? If so, what are they?
I have been married for less than a year so maintaining a work-life balance has been a challenge because I only had to worry about myself for so many years. My husband is very patient with me, and we continue to grow and work together as a team.
When it comes to health and wellness, is there anyone you admire or look up to? Why?
I admire my grandfather who is 99 years old and continues to get around and take care of himself. He worked until he was 95 years old and was very upset that he had to retire. I love his work ethic and believe that purpose has contributed to his good health.
