Dentists tend to work in small clinics, isolated from their peers. Their work requires a high degree of precision, focus and attention. As a professional class, women and men dentists are recognized for their high standards of performance, compulsive, perfectionist nature, need for social recognition and approval. Their personal discipline and high expectations of themselves and others contribute to a high level of public respect for the profession while often creating interpersonal and personal challenges for the practicing dentist. Women dentists, not unlike other independent professionals, are prone to anxiety disorders, clinical depression and burnout and it’s no wonder!
A situation infused by the crises and chronic stresses caused by job strain, dealing with cranky and fearful patients, managing a busy office and poorly trained personnel, managing supplier relations, juggling work-life responsibilities and meeting personal self-care needs can be transformed for great benefit and significant return on investment. Learning to manage stress is to learn to relax and have fun – an essential skill in building a successful dental practice and a happy personal life.
11 Strategies to Enhance Your Workplace Culture
- Surround yourself with positive, supportive people
- Design your dental office to inspire and support you, your staff and your patients
- Put yourself first – build positive personal Self-care rituals and healthy lifestyle practices
- Set healthy boundaries with yourself, your patients, associates and family.
- Make sure your office systems support and enable and support your business management processes
- Develop your listening and communications skills
- Use gentle humour and have fun to create a positive mood and get the energy flowing
- Celebrate your achievements with your staff, family and friends
- Be mindful of and flexible with your expectations of yourself and others
- Build a healthy network – join a professional support group and network regularly with professional colleagues
- Partner with a life coach to cultivate a strong, positive self-image and build a thriving practice and a happy, healthy personal life.
Schedule a free 30 minute strategy consulting session to explore your options.
This article was first published Open Wide Group in May 2012.
About Julia von Flotow
