'Be So Good, They Can't Ignore You'

Yes, that is a photo of Shelli and I standing alongside our good friends Steve Martin and Martin Short. Okay, maybe we're not really close personal friends, but we did get to meet at the CEREC 27.5 event in Las Vegas this summer where I was the M.C. and they were the evening entertainment.

I have been a big fan of both of these performers for years so it was a thrill to meet them in person. As I watched them prepare and saw how professional they were on stage and off, I was reminded that no matter how gifted and “special” these celebrities may seem, they are at heart just like us. They work hard to achieve that connection that appears so effortless when you see them on camera.

That also reminded me of something Steve Martin said in an interview. He was talking about how he often is asked to speak to young actors and comedians and they of course want to know the “secret” to success in show business. The answer he always gives is this: “Be so good they can't ignore you.”

He admits that this is usually not the answer they're looking for. They want a simple shortcut answer – get this agent, focus on this angle, wear these clothes – when in fact the solution is both simpler and more challenging: Just be the very best you can be.

I think this philosophy applies to just about everyone in just about any field. It certainly applies to dentists. It doesn't matter if we're talking about those CEREC dentists who were there in Las Vegas, or the dentists who spend several weekends a year in advanced workshop, evenings immersed in online learning, or active in local study clubs.

The simple fact is life rewards those who are pure in their intentions and relentless in their pursuit of excellence. If you are willing to put in the work that separates you from the rest, you will be noticed.

Just ask Steve Martin.