A Two-Year Reflection: Growth, Balance, and Community at Stratus Eye – All Exceeding Expectations
It’s hard to believe that two years have passed since I first opened the doors to my private practice, Stratus Eye.
What started as a vision of creating a patient-focused eye care experience has grown into something far beyond my expectations.
I feel a sense of belonging and a renewed sense of purpose thanks to my solo practice.
As I reflect on this journey, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the growth we’ve achieved, the balance I’ve found, and the community we’ve built together.
Exceeding Expectations
When I first started, I’ll admit, it was slow. Some days, I saw only one patient.
But a wide open schedule provided me the opportunity and time to go out and meet doctors and other potential referral sources in the community. I was out shaking hands, knocking on doors, and introducing myself to local businesses. I brought cakes, cookies, and handwritten cards to let people know Stratus Eye was here to serve them. Those early days required persistence, patience, and a belief that small steps would eventually lead to something bigger.
And they did. Fast forward two years, and my mornings now look completely different. I see up to 15 patients in a single morning, and my practice’s production has far exceeded my initial expectations. What once felt like a slow and uncertain climb has turned into an exciting and fulfilling momentum.
I am amazed at the mile stones we hit. In 4 months, I was seeing enough to pay the month to month overhead. In 1 year, I was collecting more than my year to year expenses. In year 2, I will make more than I did at my corporate job.
Work-Life Balance: A Key to Sustainability
One of the unexpected joys of this journey has been the ability to maintain an incredible work-life balance. With my clinic still growing, I currently work from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., which gives me plenty of time in the afternoons to recharge, spend time with my family, and focus on personal growth. I drop my daughter off at school everyday and I go home early to hang out with my 2 young children.
Those concentrated hours are busy and fulfilling—seeing 15 patients in a morning is no small feat (with no dedicated tech)—but the shorter schedule ensures that I can give my best to both my patients and my loved ones.
It’s a reminder that building a career doesn’t have to mean sacrificing balance or well-being.
Building a Thriving Community
What I’m most proud of, though, is the sense of community we’ve created at Stratus Eye. My patients are more than just names on a chart; I know their stories, and they know mine. They trust me not just as their ophthalmologist but as someone who genuinely cares about their well-being.
This sense of connection extends to my team as well. My office staff is an essential part of the Stratus Eye experience, and our patients recognize and appreciate them as much as they do me. I’ve made it a priority to compensate my team well, offering above-market pay and fostering a supportive environment where their work-life balance matters just as much as mine.
One team member, in particular, has dreams of pursuing a career in design and marketing. She asked to work Monday through Thursday to focus on her goals, and I’ve done my best to accommodate her schedule. Her talent and dedication shine through every day, and our patients adore her. Supporting her dreams is my way of giving back to the people who make this practice what it is.
Looking Ahead
As I reflect on the past two years, I’m filled with excitement for the future. Stratus Eye has grown from a humble vision into a thriving practice rooted in care, connection, and community. I’m so grateful for the patients who have trusted us with their eye health, the staff who have become the heart of this practice, and the journey that has exceeded every expectation I had.
Here’s to the next two years—and beyond. Thank you for being part of this story. Together, we’re not just elevating the standard of care; we’re building something truly special.
– Dr. Jeffrey Tran
