Conversations with the Inspiring Sheila Miller

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sheila Miller.

Sheila, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
So, I had a brief moment when I thought I wanted to go to school for fashion or interior design. I do enjoy those things, but decided I would pursue a career in nursing instead, which I am so happy I did! I have been a nurse now for eight years, and out of those years, 2.5 years as a surgical nurse practitioner.

Grad school is where it all started to make sense for me. I felt a strong sense of purpose and knew I was truly doing what I was supposed to be doing. I loved being in the provider role. Being able to diagnose and treat, and creating the plan of care for my patients gave me the independence I always wanted! To make a positive difference in someone’s life during their most vulnerable time is truly a blessing. Shortly after graduation, I was hired as a surgical nurse practitioner. With my surgical background as a registered nurse, the transition into my new role couldn’t have been any better!

I have also had a love for sharing pieces of me and my interests. Back in 2010, I started a Tumblr page, and that was the closest I came to blogging. It was a fun outlet for me! I decided to take it more seriously. I purchased a domain name and host site, but sat on it for almost a year! I finally launched my blog this past January. So far, it has been really fun, and I have received great feedback! During my free time, I also enjoy a couple of different things. One being event planning! I planned my own wedding and it wasn’t a disaster lol, it actually turned out pretty great! That’s when I came to the realization that its something that I enjoy doing. I’ve done a few events since then. I really enjoy executing and seeing my vision come to life.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The beginning of my nursing journey was not a smooth road at all. Nursing programs are very competitive, and one bad grade could cost you your spot. My second semester of nursing school I had two failing test scores and it was up to test #3 and the final exam to really secure my spot. I was on the verge of flunking out of nursing school! I had multiple teachers tell me to drop the class and start over in a year. They were only worried about their pass-rate statistics. What they did not understand was my determination to succeed. It took a lot of prayers, faith, and hard work but my 3rd test score was an A+, and I passed the final with flying colors! I wasn’t going anywhere!! This really gave me the necessary confidence to truly understand that I can do anything that I set my mind to!

The end of grad school came with a new set of challenges. I was pregnant at the time but had to complete 230 clinical hours, work full time, and complete my classwork and tests. I was really trying to figure out how I was going to get everything done. When I tell you God and some hard work was the only reason that was all possible, I mean it! Nothing but favor and grace during that season. Managed to graduate with honors!

Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am currently working full time as a surgical nurse practitioner at the busiest emergency department in the state of GA. I am proud of the care that I provide. I truly treat each patient the way that I would treat my own family if they were hospitalized. I am known for my good work ethic and I am constantly striving for excellence.

I recently launched my lifestyle blog: sheimiller.com! My site is based on my mantra ‘living intentionally.’ Regardless of a demanding career, it is so important for me to make time for my family and myself. And to do this I have to be very intentional with my time and interests. My site is where I share my life experiences hoping to inspire someone along the way. I share all of the things that I am into from books, event planning, and home projects! I believe to be good in any role whether it is wife, mom, or career, we have to have some sort of balance and an outlet. I share how I do that on the site, understanding that I am a work in progress!

Do you have a lesson or advice you’d like to share with young women just starting out?
My advice to young women is, no matter what people say, if it’s in your heart to chase that dream or goal, then just DO it! START, and get out your own head! Doubters can not actualize things that they have not done, or have not seen done themselves; so don’t allow their doubt to be a portrayal of your reality. It’s going to be a challenging journey to achieving your goals but if you put your mind to it, and have faith, you can do it!

I would tell her to do the work! Allow yourself to be the novice and ask all of the questions. Go home and study your craft. You should always operate in excellence, regardless if people see you or not. If you do not feel confident signing your name on it, then do it over!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.sheimiller.com
• Email: hello@sheimiller.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/sheimiller
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/sheimillerxo

Image Credit:
my husband

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