Same Position, Different Mindset: Redefining Success in Dental Leadership
Have you ever felt like you are stuck in your current role?
You may have been doing it for a long time, and there are no other positions within your company to move up to. Feeling trapped can throw you in a downward spiral. It can make you question your worth and your happiness at work.
Can you excel as a practice manager but feel stagnant simultaneously? Changing simple things in your role can make all the difference.
In my 19 years in dentistry, I have found several things that will bring you out of the mindset of being stuck and on to growth. You can bring joy back to your work life without changing seats. Here are my top three:
1. Grow in Your Current Role by Pushing Yourself to Be Better
Start by taking time to reflect on areas where you want to improve in dentistry, and then attend educational courses to help increase your knowledge. Invest in you FOR you.
I am not the same manager I was years ago, thanks to stepping out of my comfort zone by embracing new ideas and processes. Change is necessary to grow, so be open to trying new things.
Change can help ignite the excitement of your team when they see the positive outcomes. Knowledge is power and can have a significant impact on your dental career. Push yourself in your current role and educate yourself as much as possible.
2. Pitch New Ideas to Your Leadership Team
When obstacles arise in your practice, have a well-thought-out plan, write it down, and present that to your leadership team. This could be ways to increase production or even solutions to areas of struggle in your office.
We recently added six ops to one of our dental offices. With the expansion of our office, we found it challenging to find assistants. An employee came to us with an idea. He didn’t just throw out his idea; instead, he presented it and had a well-thought-out plan. He explained the purchase of walkies to our team, knew where to purchase them, and already had price quotes.
I love that he took the initiative and took the time to research and then presented a well-thought-out solution to a problem.
When we are creative, it freshens our work lives and gives us a new outlook. Instead of focusing on the issue, find a solution and present it.
3. Renew Your Mind
When you are off work, truly be off work. Please stop being that dedicated employee constantly checking their emails on the weekends.
I respect those who set boundaries and those who enjoy life outside of work and protect that time with their might. Engage with your family, find a hobby that you are passionate about, and put it on your calendar to do. I find serving in my community fulfilling, and I have made some fantastic connections by doing so.
Get outside and enjoy nature; whatever makes you happy, do it. Enjoying this beautiful life we’ve been given.
Take control of your mindset. When feeling stuck in your role, let that be a clear sign to get moving by pushing yourself to learn new things, share new ideas, and serve in your community outside of work. Enjoy your time outside of work, which creates peace and happiness.
About the Author
Jami Stockard, MAADOM
Jami Stockard is director of operations with Access Dental Services, LP in Missouri, a growing company with five current locations. She has worked in dentistry for over 19 years, starting as a chairside dental assistant and years in a practice manager role.
She received her FAADOM in 2023 and MAADOM in 2024.
