Owning and operating a practice can be all-consuming, especially in these supercompetitive times. Too many dentists live and breathe dentistry 24/7. You became a dentist to care for patients but also to enjoy a rewarding life. Take good care of your patients and yourself.
Take time off. It's good to work hard to get ahead, but it's also important to work smart. You can't do that if you're putting in 10-hour days five days a week. To be at your best, you need to get away from your practice, at least two weeks a year. It's hard to see the big picture when you've got your head down, grinding away every day.
Don't forget to exercise regularly. Going to the gym isn't for everybody, but you don't want to turn into a couch potato either. You can add more physical activity to your day in other ways that might be more convenient. Take a brisk 30-minute when you get home from the office. If that's not possible, break it into two 15-minute walks, one at lunch and one later in the day. When we are physically active, we feel better, think clearer and sleep sounder. This leaves us in much better condition to tackle our biggest challenges.
Roger P. Levin, DDS, is the CEO of Levin Group, a leading dental management consulting firm, and one of the most sought-after speakers in dentistry. Dr. Levin has authored 65 books and more than 4,000 articles on dental practice management and marketing. You can sign up for the Levin Group Tip of the Day.
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