h of a personal redirection that I, quite frankly, did not see coming. By all accounts and traditional measures, as a highly-regarded and successful New York City dermatologist, I'd made it to a cherished destination. I'd achieved personal, professional, and financial success that exceeded anything I ever envisioned, particularly in the context of my mother's awe-inspiring struggles as an immigrant single parent and our humble beginnings. But, oddly, despite the glittery accoutrements, I began to feel something wasn't right. I felt incomplete and adrift, when everything around me said I should feel the opposite.

Taking a deep look within to gain an understanding of what "success" at its core meant to me, I began to understand that success is more process than object, and that the journey itself is never-ending, of utmost importance, and constantly evolving. The risk is landing on a plateau and staying put, which is precisely where I was existing!

The time had come for me to expand my impact, reach out beyond the life I'd built, and influence and connect with others in positive and enduring ways. I could see that, through the years, I'd laid a strong foundation that enabled me to help others chart their own paths to success. Why not attempt to touch as many people as possible? Fundamentally, I want others to know a simple truth: if I could accomplish what I did, they too could accomplish what they want.

In the end, the path to self-empowerment is something we each have to determine for ourselves. The journey that follows reflects what worked for me - it's no more or less than one person's application of the mindset this book explores. We can each achieve success in our own way and express the best of who we are. I hope you'll see parts of yourself in this book and find ways to redraw or enhance your road map to personal contentment. Let's get it!