After nearly 10 months of planning, my family and I are off to Europe for two weeks. This will be the longest time I have been away from my office in the 15 years I’ve been in practice. It’s a little nerve wracking, to say the least. Several years ago, I developed a personal vision statement. One of the elements was to take my daughter, Isabella, to parts of the world as she learns about them in school. Third grade was all about Roman Civilization, so where are we off to Rome (and a Mediterranean cruise).
My shorter goal was to be able to go on vacations such as this without worrying about covering the overhead of the practice. While I wouldn’t say this will be a stress-free vacation, I am at least confident that the office won’t be closed down before I return.
Achieving a specific goal is very satisfying; I invite you to think of specific goals and WRITE THEM DOWN. It doesn’t become real until you write it down.
I also have longer term elements of my personal vision. My single biggest driving factor is that, as Bella grows and has her own family, I will have the financial wherewithal to be as available to them as she wishes me to be.
Whatever you career stage, sit down and think through a personal vision statement. Some elements to consider might be personal growth goals, material goals, what retirement looks like and what your succession plan will be. The vision can certainly change over the years, but it isn’t until you have things written down and accessible that they become attainable. And then you can hold yourself accountable.
Take a little time this weekend to work on your personal vision and I’ll let you know how it feels to have reached one step of my vision next time.
Be well.
Christopher J. Perry, MS, DMD, MAGD
Have a great trip. As I metioned in one of my earlier blogs you'll be pleasantly surprised when you return. Your patients will have survived your absence. So will your staff. In fact, they'll amaze you with what they can accomplish when you're not there. "But I thought they needed me for that" will be a common thought crossing your mind.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy Europe.
Andy Alas
Christopher,
ReplyDeleteGood for you for finding out about 2 week vacations. You will be invigorated when you get back. Ready to be more productive.
One suggestion about making and writing down your goals/vision. Think about them and write them down only the last 2 days of your two week vacations.
Enjoy the Journey,
Bob and Debbie