By: Taylor Graveline

Dr. Gowri Rocco is an influential figure in functional and regenerative medicine whose success is deeply rooted in her community-building prowess. A profound understanding of human connection and a commitment to patient care have been instrumental in building her thriving practice, Optimum Wellness & Longevity in Corona, CA. 

Renowned for her exceptional patient service, Dr. Rocco has earned the title “The Wellness Warrior” in her local community of Corona, California. Her philosophy of surrounding oneself with the right people is central to this success, inspiring countless others in the process.

Understanding the Concept of Building Success Through Community

Building strong connections has always been one of the key contributors to success. While today’s digital world makes it easy to connect with anyone, anywhere, it can also create a sense of isolation at some point. This makes cultivating genuine relationships more important than ever. A supportive community can be a game-changer, offering encouragement, advice, and opportunities. 

Dr. Rocco’s experience highlights the importance of finding a community that aligns with your values and aspirations. She recalls, “25 years ago, functional medicine and regenerative medicine were not common fields or popular. It was actually quite unpopular and frowned upon.” Despite these challenges, Dr. Rocco was determined to pursue her passion. “I had to search for academic training and colleagues by joining masterminds and re-educating formally through academies and fellowships,” she shares. Balancing her medical practice, additional regenerative medical training, raising three children, and starting her own business, she dedicated nine more years to complete another board certification in functional, regenerative medicine. 

By connecting with like-minded individuals, Dr. Rocco was able to push through the challenges, find support, and excel in her field. “I joined different associations and collaborated with different colleagues. It helped me find my tribe of people that had the same genuine interest and conviction as I did,” she reflects.

Balancing Career, Family, and Personal Life

Balancing career, family, and personal life has always seemed too impossible, especially for women. Dr. Rocco emphasizes the importance of self-care in finding the right community. The status of your well-being will attract those in the same phase. If you’re not constantly improving yourself, you will attract those who are also stagnant.

Prioritize self-care, mental, physical, and spiritual. Take the time for yourself and don’t apologize for it. Dr. Rocco advises, “I’m really big on educating my women to prioritize self-care so you can be stronger to help your husband or partner, loved ones, and your kids.” Setting boundaries and allowing your family to understand that recharging is essential to your well-being can make all the difference. 

“It might sound selfish, but it’s not. I tell people to take that extra half hour to an hour to go for a walk, sit and breathe, pray, meditate, or journal. It’s not always easy to do, but you do have to give attention to your own soul and body to have empowerment. If you recharge, you can give effortlessly.”

Dr. Rocco often encourages people to disconnect and spend time in nature, whether it’s watching the sunrise or sunset, going for a hike, walking or simply enjoying some solitude. The idea is to feel a sense of self-sufficiency, gratitude, and fulfillment. 

‘You Are Who You Hang Out With’ Is True. Here’s Why

Dr. Rocco emphasizes the impact of one’s social circle. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals who share similar values and goals is vital for personal and professional growth. This connection offers support, understanding, and encouragement,  all of which are essential for thriving and achieving success.

Learning from each other, having mentors, and collaborating are powerful motivators. Associate yourself with driven individuals who share a similar work ethic. This will create a community of kindness, collaboration, professional support, and giving back to your peers.

Moreover, Dr. Rocco credits her involvement in professional groups, coaching, and masterminds as the major contributor to her professional and especially personal growth. Immersed in a community of individuals passionate about similar beliefs and mindsets, she found inspiration and accelerated her personal and professional growth.

Focusing on Strengths and Finding Someone Else to Do the Rest

One of the biggest lies in any industry is the benefits promised by being a jack of all trades. It’s not realistic, and no one can be good at everything. Find your passion and hone in on it. Master it.  Focus on your strength, invest in it, and keep excelling. Areas of weakness should be delegated to others; it may be their unique strength.  

First, identify your strengths and focus on them. Improve what you do best so you can maximize your efficiency and effectiveness. You can also collaborate with others who complement your skills. They say, “Opposites attract,” and this is true. Work with people who excel in your weaker areas so you can create a well-rounded team and social circle that supports each other. Be open and adaptable to solving challenges.

 “I encourage people to look at what skills they have, not what they don’t, don’t compare to others, because that’s how you overcome insecurity. You build confidence and protect it by investing in your constant education and learning,” Dr. Rocco emphasizes.

“If you don’t believe in yourself, nobody will, and when you believe in your positive strengths, you keep making them stronger, until they become your superpowers”, says Dr. Rocco, underscoring the transformative power of self-belief, continual lifelong learning, and targeted self-improvement accelerate both personal and professional success. 

Embracing Community

Dr. Gowri Rocco’s success story of latching on to a community of like-minded people should send waves of encouragement to many individuals who are still afraid to take the conventional way of networking and community-building. Remember, success is rarely a solo endeavor. Finding your tribe, collaborating, and continual growth can make all the difference. Start by evaluating your current network and seek out those who align with your values and aspirations. And if you don’t find a tribe, create one.

Published By: Aize Perez