Meet Dr. Chakika Williams, DNP-L | National Aesthetics Trainer & Educator, Medspa Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dr. Chakika Williams, DNP-L and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dr. Chakika, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
As an entrepreneur of 3 businesses, a National Aesthetic Injector Trainer, a Mom of 3, and a recent Doctoral Graduate finding a work-life balance has been an ongoing journey for me. Over time, my understanding and approach to balance have evolved significantly.

In the early stages of my career, I was driven by a strong desire to excel in my profession and establish myself as a reputable expert in the industry. This often meant long hours and a laser-like focus on work, which naturally created a challenge in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. I poured my energy into building my clinic and training academy, constantly striving for success.

However, as time went on, I realized the importance of nurturing other aspects of my life. Being a mother to three wonderful children further highlighted the need for balance. I recognized that my personal well-being, relationships, and family deserved just as much attention as my professional aspirations.

To achieve a better work-life balance, I adopted several strategies. First and foremost, I learned to prioritize and delegate tasks effectively. By surrounding myself with a competent team, I was able to trust in their abilities and share responsibilities. This allowed me to focus on both my professional and personal commitments without feeling overwhelmed.

Setting boundaries became crucial in achieving balance. I learned to establish clear boundaries between work and personal life, dedicating specific time for work-related tasks and quality time with my family. It required discipline and the ability to switch gears, but it ultimately brought a sense of harmony to both areas of my life.

Self-care also played a significant role in my pursuit of balance. I recognized that taking care of my physical and mental well-being was essential for sustained success and happiness. Incorporating regular exercise, mindfulness practices, and quality time for myself helped me recharge and approach both my personal and professional life with renewed energy.

I have come to view balance as a dynamic concept that requires constant reassessment and adjustments. It’s not about achieving a perfect equilibrium at all times, but rather understanding the ebb and flow of different priorities and adapting accordingly. Some days, work demands may take precedence, while on others, family needs may require my undivided attention. Flexibility and self-awareness have become key components in maintaining my balance.

My journey as a Medspa Owner, National Aesthetic Injector Trainer, Mom of 3, and recent Doctoral Graduate has taught me the value of work-life balance. While it remains an ongoing process, I have found that by prioritizing, setting boundaries, and practicing self-care, I can create a fulfilling and harmonious life that encompasses both professional success and personal happiness.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
As a Black woman-owned entrepreneur of a medical spa, clinic, and academy that offers a comprehensive range of health, wellness, beauty, and mental health services, I am thrilled to share more about my business and what sets us apart.

What truly distinguishes our business is our commitment to being a one-stop shop for all things related to holistic well-being. We understand that true beauty and wellness come from within, so we have curated a unique blend of services that address not only the physical aspects but also the mental and emotional aspects of our clients’ well-being. By providing a comprehensive range of services, we aim to create a space where our clients can find everything they need to nurture their overall health and enhance their natural beauty.

I am immensely proud of the inclusive and diverse environment we have fostered within our business. Representation matters, and as a Black woman-owned enterprise, we prioritize inclusivity and celebrate diversity in all its forms. We strive to create a safe and welcoming space where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. This commitment is reflected in our team, the services we offer, and the overall experience we provide to our clients.

Getting to where I am today in the business world has been a journey filled with challenges and triumphs. It was not easy, as I encountered obstacles along the way, including bias and limited opportunities. However, I refused to let these challenges define me or hinder my progress. I overcame them through perseverance, determination, and surrounding myself with a supportive network of mentors, allies, and fellow entrepreneurs who believed in my vision and provided guidance and support.

The lessons I’ve learned on this journey have been invaluable. I’ve learned the importance of resilience, adaptability, and continuous learning. I’ve discovered the power of collaboration and the strength that comes from building a diverse and talented team. I’ve also realized the significance of giving back to the community and using my platform to uplift and empower others.

What I want the world to know about my brand and story is that we are more than just a business. We are a movement that aims to redefine beauty standards, promote self-love, and provide accessible and inclusive wellness services. We are here to celebrate and amplify the voices and experiences of marginalized communities, to break barriers, and to inspire others to chase their dreams relentlessly.

Ultimately, my vision is to create a world where everyone feels empowered, confident, and supported in their journey towards holistic well-being. I invite you to join us on this transformative and inclusive path, where beauty, wellness, and mental health converge to create a space where all individuals can thrive and embrace their true selves.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
As a Chicago native, I would be thrilled to show my best friend the best time ever in my beloved city. Here’s a week-long itinerary that includes some of the most fun, interesting, and exciting places to eat, drink, visit, and hang out:

Day 1:

Start the day with a classic Chicago breakfast at Lou Mitchell’s, known for its hearty omelets and delicious pancakes.
Take a stroll along the vibrant Magnificent Mile, exploring the iconic shops and boutiques.
Enjoy a deep-dish pizza feast at Giordano’s or Lou Malnati’s for a true Chicago culinary experience.
Head to Millennium Park and take a selfie at “The Bean” (Cloud Gate).
Catch an evening show at one of Chicago’s renowned theaters, such as the Chicago Theatre or the Steppenwolf Theatre.

Day 2:

Begin the day with a visit to the Art Institute of Chicago, home to a remarkable collection of artwork spanning various periods and cultures.
Have lunch at Portillo’s and indulge in their famous Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches.
Explore Navy Pier and take a ride on the Ferris wheel for breathtaking views of the city and Lake Michigan.
Enjoy dinner in the lively neighborhood of Wicker Park, known for its diverse culinary scene and vibrant nightlife.
Day 3:

Experience the lively atmosphere of Chicago’s sports culture by catching a Cubs or White Sox game at Wrigley Field or Guaranteed Rate Field, respectively.
After the game, head to a local craft brewery, such as Revolution Brewing or Half Acre Beer Company, to sample some of Chicago’s finest brews.
End the day with dinner in the trendy Logan Square neighborhood, known for its eclectic restaurants and vibrant bar scene.

Day 4:

Explore the vibrant and diverse neighborhoods of Chicago. Start with breakfast in the colorful Pilsen neighborhood, known for its Mexican cuisine and vibrant street art.
Spend the afternoon in the historic Hyde Park neighborhood, visiting the Museum of Science and Industry and taking a leisurely stroll through the beautiful grounds of the University of Chicago.
Enjoy dinner in the vibrant Chinatown, indulging in delicious dim sum and other Asian specialties.

Day 5:

Take a scenic boat tour along the Chicago River, admiring the architectural wonders of the city.
Have lunch at a local eatery in the hip and artistic neighborhood of Bucktown, known for its trendy cafes and boutiques.
Visit the Shedd Aquarium to explore the fascinating underwater world and get up close with marine life.
End the day with a cocktail at a rooftop bar, such as Cindy’s or the J. Parker, to enjoy stunning views of the city skyline.

Day 6:

Spend the morning exploring the diverse and culturally rich neighborhood of Andersonville, known for its Swedish heritage and charming shops.
Have lunch in Greektown and savor traditional Greek dishes at one of the authentic Greek restaurants.
Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art to immerse yourselves in the world of modern art.
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Chicago by checking out one of the city’s renowned jazz clubs, such as the Green Mill or Andy’s Jazz Club.

Day 7:

Take a day trip to the beautiful and serene Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe, where you can enjoy the stunning gardens and peaceful nature trails.
Enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch in Grant Park, overlooking Lake Michigan.
Spend the evening at a comedy club, such as The Second City or Zanies Comedy Club, for a night filled with laughter and entertainment.

This itinerary showcases just a glimpse of what Chicago has to offer. From its iconic landmarks and cultural institutions to its diverse neighborhoods and culinary delights, there is always something exciting and unique to explore in the Windy City

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely! I would be remiss if I didn’t dedicate a shoutout to my incredible inner circle of sisters, my mom, my best friends, and my amazing team. They have been pillars of support throughout my journey, and their unwavering belief in me has been instrumental in my success.

My inner circle of sisters has been my backbone, providing unconditional love, guidance, and encouragement every step of the way. Their belief in my abilities, even during times of self-doubt, has pushed me to persevere and reach new heights. Their presence in my life has been a constant source of inspiration and strength.

My mom holds a special place in my heart, as she has been my role model and source of wisdom. Her unwavering support and belief in my dreams have shaped the person I am today. Her resilience and determination have shown me the power of hard work and the importance of balancing career aspirations with personal well-being.

My best friends have been my cheerleaders, celebrating my victories and providing a listening ear during challenging times. Their friendship has brought joy, laughter, and perspective into my life, reminding me to prioritize connections and enjoy the journey.

Lastly, my exceptional team deserves immense credit and recognition. Their dedication, professionalism, and passion have contributed to the growth and success of my medspa and training academy. Their commitment to excellence and shared vision have allowed us to make a positive impact in the lives of our clients and trainees.

I also want to acknowledge the countless authors, educators, and mentors who have shaped my journey. Their books, teachings, and guidance have provided valuable insights and inspiration, helping me navigate the challenges and opportunities that have come my way.

Website: www.skyrosercs.org

Instagram: www.instagram.com/the_aestheticprenuer

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chakika-williams/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/chakikawilliams

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@skyrosercs

Image Credits
Photos work of James Washington of Maseo Photography