I Am the GOAT

Not the Serena Williams or Simone Biles kind of GOAT (though their greatness inspires me). My brand of greatness feels a little more aligned with Michelle Obama’s. Maybe it’s because we’re both Capricorns, born on January 17th. Or perhaps it’s the shared understanding that greatness often comes wrapped in persistence, purpose and an unshakable commitment to lifting others as we climb.

In my world, being a GOAT doesn’t mean racking up trophies or medals (although the accolades are nice). It’s about building a legacy, breaking barriers, and creating space for others to thrive in places that were not always designed with us in mind.

For me, it began in medicine, where I became one of the first cohort of Black women to achieve board certification in pediatric surgery. That title, as weighty as it is, isn’t just about personal achievement—it’s about opening doors for those who come after me. It’s about being a trailblazer and a mentor, knowing that each step forward I take can pave the way for someone else.

The Weight of Imposter Syndrome

But honestly, being a GOAT isn’t all confidence and triumph. Along the way, I’ve wrestled with imposter syndrome. You know that insidious voice that whispers, “You don’t belong here,” even when your credentials, expertise, and impact prove otherwise? It’s a familiar companion for many who navigate spaces where we are often the “first” or the “only.”

I’ve felt it in the operating room, where the stakes are life and death, and every decision matters. I’ve felt it when stepping into leadership roles, where people questioned whether I earned my place or was simply a diversity checkbox or a pretty face. And I’ve felt it when mentoring others, wondering if I had done enough to pave the way for their success.

Imposter syndrome thrives on doubt and perfectionism, feeding on the fear that, somehow, you’re not enough. But over time, I’ve learned to quiet that voice—not by ignoring it but by countering it with facts. I remind myself of the lives I’ve saved, the mentees I’ve supported, and the broken barriers. I think about the emails and letters from students and young professionals who see themselves in me and are inspired to keep going.

For me, community and purpose have been the antidote to imposter syndrome. Surrounding myself with people who affirm my journey, mentors who see my value, and mentees who remind me of my “why” has been transformative. Imposter syndrome may still knock on my door, but it no longer has the power to keep me small.

Owning Greatness While Uplifting Others

So, I am embracing my definition of greatness—one rooted in service, equity, and the radical belief that representation matters. I’ve used my platform to amplify the voices of underrepresented physicians, create spaces for conversations about equity in medicine, and mentor the next generation of healthcare leaders.

Being a GOAT isn’t just about professional achievements. It’s about balance. It’s about the late nights and early mornings spent crafting projects like the WhiteCoatGreenRoom, where we unpack the untold stories of healthcare professionals navigating inequities. It’s about writing anthologies to document our struggles and triumphs and building tools like Inclusive HealthMatch to reimagine what equitable care can look like.

Redefining What It Means to Be the GOAT

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, greatness is a journey, not a destination. It’s less about the titles and more about the impact. It’s about taking what you’ve been given and making something more significant for yourself and those who will follow.

So, no, I may not have a trophy case full of medals, but my legacy is built on something far more enduring: the knowledge that I’ve made a difference.

And if you’re reading this, chances are, you’re on your path to greatness, too. Maybe your GOAT status looks different—quieter, more behind-the-scenes. That’s okay. It is essential to own, celebrate, and use it to uplift others.

Because being a GOAT isn’t about being the best; it’s about improving the world. And that, my friends, is a title worth striving for.

So, here’s to being the GOATs we were born to be—Capricorn energy and all. Let’s keep climbing, breaking barriers, and redefining greatness.

What does your version of GOAT look like? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your story.