No one truly empathizes with a dentist unless they are living the dream in the trenches or have previous first-hand knowledge. It is rather unreasonable to expect a lay person to appreciate the challenges we tackle on a regular basis. Not even a spouse, self-employed friends, family, or even disillusioned colleagues over on the medical side of the equation can truly appreciate the life of a dental practitioner.
Imagine the thrill of simply responding “you have no clue” when asked why you are angry and frustrated over a litany of events at the practice. For not only is a dental practitioner held to incredibly stringent clinical standards, they are also required to settle the cultural disruptions, pay the bills, acknowledge a rather paltry market penetration, and work on wide awake people. All this while maintaining a near flawless balance with a healthy personal and family life. Is it realistic to expect a work-life balance? A dynamic swagger seems more appropriate, and, in all earnestness, the interconnectivity can potentially wind one around a flagpole ready to surrender.
Fear not, for this recurring theme is not unique to any one specific but a universal protocol for donning the many hats of dental practice leadership. Here are five of the most common elements to consider during one of those all-too-common sleepless nights:
- Imposter Syndrome
- Perfectionism
- Erratic Cash Flow
- A Mountain of Debt
- What are the Alternatives?
Imposter Syndrome
No one relishes in being labeled a phony. One of the more egregious self-imposed labels of an entrepreneur, it is a chronic state of perceived inadequacy despite evidence of success. This somewhat chronic state of self-doubt can and often leads to more a destructive path for many who suffer. One of the most essential steps toward improvement is establishing a defined and persistent practice of mindfulness. Truly being self-aware is a direct connection to the root of happiness.
Perfectionism
We participate within a profession built on the necessity for exacting standards, and it is blasphemous to think otherwise. Despite having countless lab cases destroyed by the dental school autocracy, the value within that experience cemented the need to always maintain unwavering standards. Oftentimes, the sense or need to make things perfect stems from an innate fear of failure and can lead to an incredible degree of procrastination. Rather, delegation and adaptation of Pareto’s Principle can go a long way toward alleviating this curse.
Erratic Cash Flow
We participate within a profession built on the necessity for exacting standards, and it is blasphemous to think otherwise. Despite having countless lab cases destroyed by the dental school autocracy, the value within that experience cemented the need to always maintain unwavering standards. Oftentimes, the sense or need to make things perfect stems from an innate fear of failure and can lead to an incredible degree of procrastination. Rather, delegation and adaptation of Pareto’s Principle can go a long way toward alleviating this curse.
A Mountain Of Debt
The path to successful practice leadership is paved with good intentions, gold bricks, and gallons of blood, sweat, and tears. Today’s price tag for education and practice ownership is steep if not bordering upon insurmountable. However, dentistry remains quite possibly the most entrepreneurial sub sector of health care which substantiates its selectivity and inordinate price tag. AS a result, there is a viable practice model for just about any venture and almost walled-garden nature to its surroundings. Regardless, the conscientious in all aim to make good on all of their obligations, and debt-free is a great state of being.
What are the Alternatives?
An all-too-common thought thread emerges when one is knee-deep in the trenches of daily practice. What routinely feels like a marathon of sprints can reduce even the most formidable to a place of burnout, fatigue, and pure resentment. A likely culmination of all the nocturnal ruminations lends itself to this destination with a hopeful eye for greener pasture. With a little reflection, perspective, and unconditional support, one may find a renewed passion or forage an alternative path a bit less dependent upon the hands.
If this resonates with your personal situation, bear in mind, you are not alone. Many who have elected the same formidable path, have discovered the value of mentorship. Consider Dynamic Dental Ascension as a potential partner on your journey. Schedule a discovery call today!