The 6-Month Framework That Makes Practice Owners Happier (Not Just Richer)

Today I want to delve into an aspect of business that might seem a bit unconventional but is indeed transformative—reflection. Though this concept might initially appear fluffy or trivial, I assure you it's a powerful tool you'll be grateful for in the future.

The Power of Reflection

Reflection is not merely about looking back; it's a strategic practice that can set you up for a better future in both your business and personal life. We often hear, "What gets measured gets managed." While tracking numbers is crucial, it's just as important to reflect on experiences that numbers can't quantify.

When starting my business, I focused on growth and measurable successes, neglecting the more nuanced aspects like team satisfaction and workload management. These overlooked areas can significantly impact the health of your business and your happiness.

Finding Time for Reflection

You're probably thinking, "Jonathan, my schedule is already packed. How can I fit reflection in?" The beauty of reflection is that it doesn't require daily commitment. Start small and set aside time on a monthly or quarterly basis. Think of it as a GPS for your business. Regular reflection helps ensure you're on the right path, beyond just achieving financial goals.

What to Reflect On

In dentistry, traditional metrics are essential, yet they don't capture the whole story. Qualitative elements like team dynamics and patient satisfaction are equally vital. Consider reflecting on aspects beyond numbers: Are you and your team truly content? How do your patients feel about their care? These insights can lead to meaningful changes in your practice.

How to Capture Reflections

Reflection needs to be intentional and actionable. Consider creating a recurring calendar event labeled “Practice Reflection” where you can jot down your thoughts. Alternatively, use digital note-taking apps like Evernote or OneNote, or even email yourself your reflections for future revisits. Choose a method that suits your style and make it a consistent practice.

Reflection Questions to Consider

Reflection is as much about asking the right questions as it is about doing. Inspired by Dr. Christian Mullen, here are some questions to ponder:

• What am I most proud of?
• Who inspires me and why?
• What does my ideal morning look like?
• What do I want most in life?
• What important lesson did I learn this week?
• What experience am I most thankful for?

Applying Reflection To Your Practice

Here’s how you can tailor reflection questions specifically for your dental practice:

• What am I most proud of in my practice this quarter?
• Which challenges have we overcome as a team?
• How is my team’s morale and engagement?
• Are there areas where I’ve overextended myself?
• If I could change one thing about my practice, what would it be?

These questions can offer valuable insights into your business's and personal growth.

Conclusion

Reflection doesn’t need to be complicated, but it must be intentional. Whether you're logging your answers in a notebook or discussing them in team meetings, these reflections can offer insights that fuel growth for both your practice and yourself. Remember, it’s about more than just numbers—it’s about harmony in life and business.

Until next time, take a moment to reflect and keep building the practice and life you've always dreamed of.

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