So few people in this world have the ability to do what they say and say what they mean. Meet one of my very dear friends and comrades-in-arms, Dr. Eso Tiu. Otherwise endearingly known to me and many others as the incomparable, Esofine. (Pure genius! I mean, who comes up with a name like that?!)
Though he's a man who wears many hats from dentist to family man, writer, musician, and entrepreneur- what I've always admired most, is his enthusiasm to help others and his sincere encouragement to be the best you can. When I told him I was thinking about writing a book, the first question he asked was- "Where can I get it?" When I started my blog, he was one of the first to sign up, and whenever I need someone to say "Go for it"- I know he's got my back.
His generosity, good nature, and passion for following his heart allows him to have the patience and faith to one day live out his ultimate dreams. Between his newly produced single, "Invincible" by John V available on Itunes, authoring the "Tooth Survival Guide" available on Amazon.com, and new ventures on the horizon...all I have to say is... "E- Go for yours!"
It's my honor to share a recent interview I did with Eso and his moments of reflection...
(mm): Give us a little history about getting into dentistry:
et: In NYU, I was planning to go to med school. However, I got a job as a dental assistant in midtown Manhattan during my junior year. I was inspired by my experience and never looked back. I found every opportunity to volunteer or work as a dental assistant, and finally found my way. I graduated dental school in 1994 and have been in my current office since 2001. My favorite part of the job is trying to make others feel good about themselves through their appearance.
(mm): In an ideal world- what would you be doing?
et: I would love to have my own music/film studio. At NYU I had to choose between two paths: music and dentistry. I wanted to do both but was advised against it. To be practical, I chose the dental field.
(mm): What 3 things give you energy?
et: 1. Exercise- I believe in starting the day either at the gym or the track. Some of my best ideas were thought of during a workout session.
2. Developing a new idea or plan: this can be writing a book, song, having a new marketing idea, or starting a new business. Achieving the goal is a motivating, driving force.
3. Reading about other successful people/companies, learning from them, and trying to apply those lessons in my life. This is just pure inspiration, and can be extremely energizing.
(mm): How are you finding ways to incorporate passion in your life?
et: I try to engage in these activities regularly. I'm a member of a gym, recently published a book, constantly developing marketing strategies for my office, and I try to write music on the side. The tough part is balancing this with family life. You just have to do a little at a time.
(mm): What are your motivating factors?
et: There are 2 words I live my life by, "Help others". The book I wrote was my way of trying to teach people how to avoid cavities and gum disease. Music wise, I've seen and heard a lot of great Fil-Am talent. My company, Esofine Productions is an attempt to get some talent discovered.
(mm): Where can we find you in 5 years?
et: Retired from dentistry and full time in a music/film studio
(mm): What steps are you taking to get there?
et: Over the last several years, I've been building my home studio and learning more about the ins and outs of the music industry. Through my dental practice, I've met a lot of music industry people, producers, and studio engineers. Sometimes when I'm working on a project I'll ask for their advice.
(mm): Thoughts on being a business owner...
et: Starting your own business is VERY SCARY. You're literally putting yourself out there hoping people will somehow find you. Plan and map out EVERY SINGLE ASPECT of a business. Ask yourself, "does it make sense? How can i get financing? What makes me different? Can I sell it later...which should be the ultimate goal of every business- a lot of people don't realize this. Finally, what is my backup plan should things not work out?
(mm): Thoughts on venturing into the unknown...
et: Trying something new is like starting a new business. However, it's implying that you're not happy with what you're doing now. So, you have to ask yourself those same questions as above. Or consider the "springboard concept"- use a current success to launch another success. Once you reach a goal, don't sit still- "springboard" yourself to the next level. Then keep springboarding throughout life...
(mm): How do you want to be remembered?
et: I want to be remembered as someone who actively tried to make a difference in people's lives. I wrote my book because I've seen young teens and children needing EXPENSIVE dental work. I want people to avoid this in the future. As I look to exit dentistry, this is my way of telling the world, "this is how I can help you." Again, "helping others"- think of those 2 words every time you go to work, you just might do things differently.
To find Eso- you won't have to look far...
single: Invincible by John V available on Itunes
website: http://www.toothsurvival.com/
book: Tooth Survival Guide: http://www.amazon.com/Tooth-Survival-Guide-Protecting-Preserving/dp/144049309X/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top
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