Meet Aja Nichols | Lead Dentist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Aja Nichols, DDS and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Aja, what’s one piece of conventional advice that you disagree with?
“Fake it ’til you make it”- No. You don’t have to fake anything. Just make it. Wake up earlier than others. Focus. Map out your plan. Affirm and reaffirm yourself. Write down your goals. Experience who you want to become and what you want to do all in your mind multiple times a day. Ask questions. Read. Be honest with yourself. Take feedback. Focus on impressing yourself, not others. Imagine often. You will be there sooner than you think.

Please tell us more about your business. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today business-wise. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
I’ve never focused on what sets me apart from others, I just focus on what makes me feel good as a person. I take great pride in creating and maintaining great energy around the office, my team, and my work. I’m grateful that I learned early on that those who are supposed to be on this journey with me, will be, whether for a reason, season, or a lifetime. I am most proud of my unwavering commitment to my vision and the integrity of my business. We do the right things, at the right time, for the right reasons. My goal is for my practice to be as harmonious as possible. I want my team to enjoy coming to work, and still have time to enjoy life. Has this journey been easy? No. There have been many times where the reward was nowhere in sight, but I’ve continually trusted the process and powered through. Often, success is equated with monetary gains, but for me, success is accomplishing the very thing you set out to do. I chose the name Lifestyle Dentistry because I believe that true success is a lifestyle. Your habits, decisions, and mental fortitude all work together and must constantly be developed and practiced.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If a friend flew in on Thursday, we’d kick off our weekend by going to have some drinks and catch the Thursday night NFL game at Chicago’s Pizza in Smyrna. Friday, we’d have vegan brunch at Cafe Social House in Mableton, run some errands, then have lunch at Go Vegan Grill in Decatur. Friday night we’d check out my best friend Mylah (@mylahmusic) singing at Old Lady Gang or City Winery. Saturday, mid-day, we would hang out a music festival, then we would head over to Viva La Vegan to get a vegan shrimp po’boy. Sunday, we’d make our way to Buckhead church to see what life nuggets Andy Stanley and Clay Scroggins are giving out.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Adrienne! She has been the epitome of a “Ride or Die” office manager. She owns her title, and has earned the metaphor of Swiss Army Knife; she will get the job done. Her passion and drive are unmatched. I can’t imagine not having her energy and support. She is a team player, leader, and teacher. Having consistent support despite numbers looking good or dismal is a game changer!

Website: lifestyledentistryatl.com
Instagram: @lifestyledentistryatl
Facebook: Lifestyle Dentistry
Other: stay tuned