Dr. Jaime Klimsey Pickett, DVM, is a distinguished veterinarian with a passion for both animal health and personal growth. As the CEO and President of her own veterinary practice, she brings a wealth of experience from her time in both clinical settings and executive roles. With a background in veterinary medicine from the University of Florida, an MBA, and Wharton’s Executive Education program, Dr. Pickett has spent years refining her approach to leadership, mentorship, and veterinary care. Her interests in aviation, philanthropy, and lifelong learning shape her holistic view of success.
Q: How do you define success in your professional life as a veterinarian?
Success, to me, is about making a positive impact on the lives of others—both animals and humans. In my professional life, this means not just treating pets when they’re sick, but also advocating for preventive care, educating pet owners, and mentoring the next generation of veterinarians. I measure success by the health and happiness of the pets I care for and the trust and relationships I build with their owners. It’s about knowing I’ve made a difference, whether that’s through a life-saving surgery, guiding a pet owner through a difficult decision, or inspiring a young vet to pursue their dreams.
Q: How do your personal experiences influence your perspective on success?
My personal experiences have taught me success is multifaceted and deeply personal. Growing up in New Jersey and playing basketball in college instilled in me a sense of discipline and teamwork, which I carry into my work every day. My love for aviation and travel has broadened my perspective, showing me the importance of balance and exploration outside of my professional life. Success, for me, isn’t just about achievements; it’s about resilience, adaptability, and continuous growth. It’s about overcoming challenges and turning them into opportunities for learning and improvement.
Q: What role does mentorship play in your definition of success?
Mentorship is a cornerstone of my definition of success. I’ve been fortunate to have incredible mentors throughout my career, and I strive to pay that forward. Mentoring young veterinarians and students allows me to share my knowledge and experiences, helping them navigate the complexities of veterinary medicine and leadership. Success, to me, isn’t just about what I accomplish personally, but about the legacy I leave through the people I’ve helped along the way. When I see someone I’ve mentored achieve their goals or overcome a hurdle, that’s a true marker of success.
Q: How do you approach goal-setting in your professional and personal life?
I approach goal-setting with a focus on alignment—ensuring that my goals are in line with my core values, mission, and vision. I break down long-term goals into short-term milestones to make them more attainable and to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Flexibility is also key; I believe it’s important to be adaptable and to adjust plans as circumstances change. Whether in my practice, with my philanthropic efforts, or in my personal life, I prioritize goals that contribute to long-term growth and fulfillment. Success is not a destination but a journey, and goal-setting helps guide that journey in a meaningful way.
Q: How do you handle setbacks and challenges in your career?
Setbacks and challenges are inevitable in any career, but I see them as opportunities for growth. I believe that resilience is one of the most important traits you can develop. When faced with a challenge, I focus on learning from the experience, adapting my approach, and moving forward stronger than before. I also find it helpful to reframe issues in a more positive light, setting realistic expectations and maintaining a growth mindset. Success, in this context, is about how you bounce back from adversity and continue to evolve.
Q: What role does work-life balance play in your concept of success?
Work-life balance is crucial to my concept of success. While I’m deeply committed to my career and my responsibilities as a veterinarian and leader, I also recognize the importance of taking time for myself and my family. My hobbies, like aviation and travel, provide me with a sense of freedom and joy that recharges me and keeps me grounded. I believe that success is not just about professional accomplishments but about living a well-rounded life that includes time for personal interests, family, and self-care. A balanced life leads to sustained success and fulfillment.
Q: How does philanthropy influence your view of success?
Philanthropy is integral to my understanding of success. Giving back to the community and supporting causes that align with my values brings a deeper sense of purpose to my life and work. Whether it’s through board service, supporting veterinary students, or contributing to animal welfare organizations, I see philanthropy as a way to extend the impact of my work beyond the clinic. Success, in my view, is measured by the positive change you create in the world and the lives you touch along the way.
Q: In your opinion, how should success be measured in veterinary medicine?
Success in veterinary medicine should be measured through a holistic lens, considering both quantitative and qualitative factors. Of course, outcomes like successful treatments and client satisfaction are important, but so are the relationships we build, the trust we earn, and the education we provide. I believe that a successful veterinarian is one who not only excels in clinical skills but also in communication, empathy, and leadership. It’s about contributing to the well-being of animals, supporting pet owners, and advancing the profession as a whole. For me, success is the sum of these parts, and it’s reflected in the lives we improve every day.