People like to believe that there is something mysterious or special about how successful dentists and their teams reach the highest level.

It really comes down to the fact that they simply engage at that level. They have a sense of their possibilities and more importantly, they have a sense of urgency that makes them act on those possibilities. It's that "fire-in-the-belly" that drives them to get better.

Some people just naturally have this fire within. As an educator, I have found that you can help them and you can give direction and coaching. One thing you can't do is slow down these individuals, even if you wanted to. They have two words that propel them to reach new levels, two words that define their mindset: "What's next?"

But I have also found that you can ignite this fire in people who don't naturally have it. You just have to find the right spark that captures their imagination and then fuel the fire with some early success. Eventually, the fire takes hold for good.

I think of this often when I see people who are discouraged by the news on the economy and how it can affect their business. I think of the people who have "the fire" and I realize that they are too focused on being the best they can be to spend their time worrying about outside factors they can't control. You can choose to focus on the U.S. economy and the limitations you see there, or you can choose to focus on your practice economy and on the possibilities that are there – and believe me there are great possibilities.

Those dentists who are highly engaged, always asking "what's next?" and always driving themselves to stay on top of their game thrive in any economy. Money does not drive these dentists; they're driven by a desire to be the best, and the money just follows naturally. Economic success is a byproduct of being in love with what you do and committed to doing it at the highest level.

So do what it takes to keep that fire lit and fueled. Share the warmth and light from it with those around you. You'll find that success that is born of true passion is the most fulfilling kind of success.



Comments

Commenter's Profile Image Dr. Ann Marie Gorczyca
May 23rd, 2013
Enjoyed this post very much. Thank you and have a great day!
Commenter's Profile Image Avi Raina
May 23rd, 2013
I often ask myself this question, “How much fire do I have within myself?” Quite honestly, I have come to discover that the fire is not the problem. But the lack of 'fuel' and the 'igniter' are the primary elements that withhold one to reach their potential. Where “Fuel= Desire” and “Igniter=Passion”. One’s inability to get consumed in this “fire” prevents them from going headlong into it, and most therefore sit outside and enjoy the bonfire.
Commenter's Profile Image Barry Polansky
May 23rd, 2013
Avi raises a great point. One that is rarely discussed at lectures and seminars...doctors should take better care of themselves---physically, mentally, emotionally...and spiritually. This is what Pankey meant by balance. Read books on willpower and you will find it is a limited resource. When energy runs down---willpower is depleted---hence the fuel to go on is lost. The fire is the intention --- but the energy is the fuel. Barry
Commenter's Profile Image Amparo David
May 26th, 2013
Wow Imtiaz!!!! I feel you are talking to me!!! Love this! The fire is definitely within me. So true,passion drives you,money comes somehow But it works. "the Secret" taught me the real secret of success. Always keep a positive mind , because is what you think what you attract. Thankyou for your posts!!! I look for them all the time..
Commenter's Profile Image John Sweeney
May 28th, 2013
Nice post Imtiaz.... Barry is right on when he talks about how we have an energy limit... I think most people have a certain energy tank each day. And, by the end of the day most of the fuel is lost to feed the fire. That's why it is so important for ones with that Fire, to get their most important tasks done early. Working out, big cases, Online CE, etc. should all be done when we have the most energy to put towards them. Otherwise, we don't get as much return on investment for our efforts...
Commenter's Profile Image Barry Polansky
May 28th, 2013
John -- I believe this is the most important factor in a dentist's success. Low energy, working with people who don't value you or your services, not being able to make an independent decision...all of this and more contribute to dentists just giving up...becoming pessimistic. This is an area that should be discussed in every CE program. I just wrote a blog post about it this morning. Barry