Do you ever feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or just plain unhappy in life? Maybe you've even noticed that these feelings affect how you interact with others. Trust me, you're not alone, and I'm not here to preach from an ivory tower. We've all had our fair share of tough days, weeks, and maybe even years. Life can be challenging, and it's okay to admit it.
Running a healthcare business is no walk in the park. When you add the emotional toll of patient care into the mix, it becomes a breeding ground for stress and turmoil.
Somewhere along the way, well-meaning advisors, speakers, or educators told doctors that they should stick to "just doing dentistry." Some took this advice to heart, and whenever their business demanded more from them, they resented it. This attitude creates a difficult work environment for the entire team.
Let's face it, as a business owner, you'll often find yourself doing tasks that fall outside your typical role. Even after a decade in business with a team of three graphic designers, I occasionally fire up Photoshop to work on creative projects. However, I won't spend the rest of the day stewing in anger because I did something that wasn't "the highest and best use of my time."
If you want your employees and business advisors (let's call them partners, which is more respectful) to go the extra mile for you, here are three crucial steps:
1. Communicate with Your Employees Like You Do with Your Patients
Show appreciation, ask questions, and always lead with respect. It's remarkable how we often put our best foot forward when dealing with clients, customers, or patients, but our behavior towards our own team can be less than stellar.
2. Treat Your Business Advisors with Respect and Kindness
Just as you would with patients, treat your advisors with respect and kindness. They'll be more motivated to help you when they know you value their expertise. While it's true that the squeaky wheel sometimes gets the oil, being unkind and disrespectful won't get you far in the long run.
3. Embrace Your Role as a Business Owner and Find Happiness in It
Remember that as a business owner, you'll inevitably wear many hats. Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and learn new skills. Surround yourself with the right support team, both internally and through advisors, to set yourself up for success. Understand that it may take time before you can focus primarily on your core profession.
If you find yourself miserable in your practice and feel like things have spiraled out of control, it's never too late to make a positive change. Consider seeking professional help to organize, streamline, and rejuvenate your business. You can reach out to me at Grace@identitydental.com, and I'll assist you in finding the right advisor for your unique situation.
Remember, it's never too late to make a positive change and find happiness in your journey as a healthcare business owner.