Thriving in Troubled Times
We live in troubling times. Our friends, families, patients and communities are more polarized than ever before. I have witnessed people ending relationships over differences of opinion. I have witnessed violent outbursts in response to others questioning someone’s behavior or decisions.
That being said, it is my opinion that every day is “election day” where we choose our individual happiness and success. Success is all about relationships, and we need to do our best to come together and create peace and prosperity.
Actor Tom Jackson often quotes Aesop when he talks about how no act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted. He also talks about how we need to find love in an effort to achieve reconciliation.
A new leader has been elected in the United States, and, in January, he will inhabit the office of the President of the United States. Later in 2025, we will likely also have a new leader in Canada.
With the assistance of my friend and mentor, Lt. Col. Rob “Waldo” Waldman, I have some advice I want to share.
Every day is our day to make choices. Having a daily action plan and making disciplined, consistent actions executed with focus and determination wins the day.
Success is a marathon. Small successes build momentum. Celebrate the small victories, and then continue onward.
Be willing to fail. In my sponsorship of the Loose Moose Theater’s High School Theatersports Improv Championship, I have heard the teachers bring home that message again, and again. Only by willing to fail will you stumble upon greatness and propel your success (or at least have a very funny skit). Each misstep is a chance to learn, adjust, grow, adapt and push forward.
Be willing to be vulnerable. Ask for help. No one succeeds alone consistently. Relationships matter. Engage your team to support you and each other.
Be willing to lift up the fallen. True leaders lift as they climb. Invest in the success of those around you.
And kindness counts. “The ROI of Kindness” by Brian Biro and Mac Anderson has several examples of successful businesses that have embraced kindness.
In dentistry, we have the opportunity every day to build smiles and change people’s lives. Be the change, lead with kindness and choose to be better regardless of those around you, and our lives will be better, happier, healthier and more prosperous.
That being said, it is my opinion that every day is “election day” where we choose our individual happiness and success. Success is all about relationships, and we need to do our best to come together and create peace and prosperity.
Actor Tom Jackson often quotes Aesop when he talks about how no act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted. He also talks about how we need to find love in an effort to achieve reconciliation.
A new leader has been elected in the United States, and, in January, he will inhabit the office of the President of the United States. Later in 2025, we will likely also have a new leader in Canada.
With the assistance of my friend and mentor, Lt. Col. Rob “Waldo” Waldman, I have some advice I want to share.
Every day is our day to make choices. Having a daily action plan and making disciplined, consistent actions executed with focus and determination wins the day.
Success is a marathon. Small successes build momentum. Celebrate the small victories, and then continue onward.
Be willing to fail. In my sponsorship of the Loose Moose Theater’s High School Theatersports Improv Championship, I have heard the teachers bring home that message again, and again. Only by willing to fail will you stumble upon greatness and propel your success (or at least have a very funny skit). Each misstep is a chance to learn, adjust, grow, adapt and push forward.
Be willing to be vulnerable. Ask for help. No one succeeds alone consistently. Relationships matter. Engage your team to support you and each other.
Be willing to lift up the fallen. True leaders lift as they climb. Invest in the success of those around you.
And kindness counts. “The ROI of Kindness” by Brian Biro and Mac Anderson has several examples of successful businesses that have embraced kindness.
In dentistry, we have the opportunity every day to build smiles and change people’s lives. Be the change, lead with kindness and choose to be better regardless of those around you, and our lives will be better, happier, healthier and more prosperous.
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