We had the good fortune of connecting with Marissa Ziegler and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Marissa, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
About 18 months ago, I was working as a Physician Assistant in a hospital, taking a ton of call, dating someone who wasn’t right for me, and feeling depressed. I was working so hard to make my life work to fit other people’s expectations of me and I was physically and mentally drained. I decided to quit my job, end my relationship and went back packing across Thailand by myself for a month. It was the most freeing experience I’ve ever had and genuinely the happiest I’ve ever been. After I returned, I decided that I needed to continue to make decisions for myself. I found a new job that has steady hours, good support and less call. I started working out more, traveling whenever I could, and saying no to things that didn’t serve me.
It was only after a trip like that, that I learned what it meant to enjoy time off. When I am at work, I am focused and dedicated. I love being a PA and taking care of patients.
But now I am able to prioritize what I need during my evenings/weekends to recharge so I can be ready to pour into people. This year is called my “yes” year. I started doing anything that might bring me joy – taking pottery lessons or rock climbing. I even introduced more self-care into my routine in the form of getting my hair done and treating myself to massages.
This newfound balance is what inspired me to start Adore Aesthetics. Aesthetics is my passion and a way that I can help others take care of themselves. It allows me to bring my career and training to others who need to say “yes” to themselves and feel good while doing it!
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Adore Aesthetics is a practice specializing in non-invasive techniques to rejuvenate and restore clients. Most of these techniques utilize products such as neuromodulators (i.e. Botox) and dermal fillers. Neuromodulators can be used to freeze muscles to help reduce wrinkles, decrease migraines, and improve TMJ for example. Fillers are used more so to replenish skin and restore volume that the body loses naturally with aging – some areas include cheeks, jawline, chin. I started Adore Aesthetics to cultivate a culture of feeling comfortable, beautiful and ADORED. I want the opportunity to sit down with my clients and talk with them about insecurities, aging and what it means to them to be beautiful.
I would love to say that I had a clear business plan and knew exactly what I was taking on when I started this venture, but honestly, I just had the basic idea of personalizing care for each patient and wanting the flexibility to care for them in my own way. There have been many obstacles that I was not prepared for but I just take on each one as a learning opportunity. I’ve never started my own business before so I expect hiccups and mistakes. My philosophy is to take the time with each step of the process, whether it went smoothly or not, and appreciate that no matter what, it is one more step that I didn’t even think was possible one year ago. That’s a win..
Plus, having clients who are happy with their treatments and embrace the culture of Adore Aesthetics is the greatest win of all.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well, I live a little north of Miami, near Delray Beach. I am a lover of anything outdoors – beach, paddle boarding, pickle ball, walking trails, bike rides. Each day I would take my friend to see the beauty South Florida has to offer. (Maybe even a day trip to the keys?!) When it comes to food, there are soooo many good choices. Florida has such a mix of delicious, fresh food. My favorites are probably anywhere with authentic sushi! Takato in Fort Lauderdale is one of my favorites.
Also, I’m a big happy hour gal! I love taking advantage of the early deals and hanging at a good spot on the water enjoying the breeze.
I’m more of the ‘go with the flow’ type while on a vacation!
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First, I’d love to recognize my family. They continuously support me and encourage my decisions. Our times together are what keep me grounded. Secondly, I’d like to thank the people at my first job who took a chance on me and taught me how to perfect my skills. The operating room can be a brutal teacher, there is no time or room for failure, but it is under that pressure where I became stronger. Although, I won’t name every person specifically, I am positive they will know who they are – and if you’re reading this, thank you again.
Thirdly, I’d like to mention the team I currently work with as they are the one’s who gave me the confidence to really take the leap and start my own business.
And lastly, my community of friends.
Website: www.adorebymz.com
Instagram: @adore.bymarissa
Image Credits
Chris’ Headshots Little Wildflowers Photography