I can sense pretty quickly when talking with a practice owner whether or not they have the key ingredient for growth in their practice. It all starts with their mindset. And it’s easy to get an accurate understanding of someone’s mindset from what they say and what they do.

Are they busy taking action or busy making excuses? On a scheduled call do they show up on time and prepared? Do they blame others? Do they convince themselves that their particular situation is out of their control? Are they unwilling to do what is necessary? Do they give up all responsibility to others – blaming the market, their town, their staff, their patients?

It’s only when you realize that you are 100% responsible for everything in your life and your practice that you can put yourself firmly in the driving seat, with the ability to decide where you are going. It’s not always easy to hear, but you are responsible. You chose this profession. You decided where to locate your practice. You attracted the clients you have – no one forced them upon you. You chose your staff. You set the culture. You borrowed the money. You signed on the dotted line. It’s all on you.

But never forget, being responsible means being able to RESPOND. You can respond to anything in your practice that isn’t working and act to change it. That is the power that you have. Choose to blame others and you render yourself powerless.

You may not be able to control the wind, but you can re-direct your sails. There is a long list of things that you cannot control, but ultimately you can always control how you respond to any situation. You always have choices. Ask yourself where are the areas of your practice where you are behaving as if you have no control?

Your ability to attract new clients? Your prices and what your clients pay you? How many clients buy versus just have an eye exam?  Your average dispense value? Your quantity of referred new clients? The reviews your clients give you? Your profitability? Your revenue? Your stock? Your staff skills, confidence and commitment?

Do you really think any of these things are out of your control? They are not. No matter what the situation there are effective strategies to fix it. You need simply to adjust your sails.