It’s December, and you know what that means!  In addition to frantic daily schedules packed with patients attempting to complete services paid for by their unused third party benefits, there are year-end business responsibilities (401k and workman’s comp audits to name just two) and family commitments.  Good grief!  It’s enough to stress anyone, and steal the anticipated joy from the traditional holiday season!

A team exercise I learned from my dear friend, Bob Spiel (CEO, Spiel and Associates Consulting), can help put that smile back on your face and the spring in your step even during potentially stressful times.  It’s simple and fun to do, and requires only an assortment of “sticky notes” and a few minutes of your time.  Each team member (as well as the doctor) writes as many “happy thoughts” (one per sticky) as they can in ninety seconds, and then shares with each other.  It’s like Peter Pan and flying (“Just think happy thoughts….!”).  The notes are then posted in a selected location (we use our reception area/patients love them) to remind each team member of what brings them joy!

Some of the notes I wrote included: youngest daughter engaged, synergy at work, more time with my spouse, helped build nursery for new granddaughter, TWO new granddaughters, wall-to-wall artwork in my study, living life with purpose and a sense of abundance, and finding joy in every day!

It has always been my belief that December should be more than a frantic and stressful month, but should include time for reflection.  Revisit those experiences which brought you joy, let go of past disappointments you can’t change, and fill your heart and mind with those successes which positively impacted the lives of others!  Then, plan to repeat those happy experiences in the coming new year!

As noted in previous blogs (July and August), annual planning and financial management are key components to a pleasant, predictable, and productive December!  Establishing a commitment to patient care in advance through good calendar management, delegating time-consuming tasks to other professionals, and knowing that one’s financial goals have been (or will be) achieved, can indeed contribute to less year-end stress and greater joy!  Celebrate your blessings, and fill your heart with joy!



 

Wishing you Love, Peace, and Joy
 
this Holiday Season!
 

  Mountaintop Moments(3) resized

“As you start traveling down that road of life, remember this:  There are never enough comfort stops.  The places you’re going to are never on the map.  And once you get that map out, you won’t be able to refold it no matter how smart you are.  So forget the map, roll down the windows, and whenever you can, pull over and have a picnic with a pig.”
Kermit the Frog
from “It’s Not Easy Being Green,” Jim Henson

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