Hello Doctor. Over the years I have had the opportunity to work on many different projects looking at the very issues that you raise. Of course, the profession consists of many different types of individuals working in different types of practices. Yes, of course, everything that you mention can be found in veterinary practices. On the other hand, one can find many persons and practices that are thriving. What’s the difference? It boils down to their mindset. Is it predominantly a “what’s wrong” mindset or a “ what’s possible” mindset.

Pointing out what’s wrong can be valuable when one can also identify how it is keeping us from getting the situation we want. In that context, it is identifying a problem for which a solution may be found. I’ve read and heard much about what’s wrong in veterinary practice, but unless it is framed as a problem that is standing in the way of a definable better situation, it’s just complaining. Here’s the kicker. Most of us are much better at identifying what we don’t want than being clear about what we do want. The people I have seen to be most successful have had the ability to visualize exactly what they want. Getting there wasn’t easy, but knowing where they wanted to be allowed them to identify problems and develop solutions.