‘You need to plan to change things’: The Secret Dentist is at it again… This month he shares the key to living a long and happy life.
Hopefully by now most of you will have had a break of some sort. A chance to lift your head up, have a stretch and hopefully relax for at least a week away from dentistry.
It is vitality important that we all think about the long term and plan for a happy and prosperous life ahead.
Longevity of life is increasing. No matter how depressed some may get about the effect of global warming or the terrible things happening in the world, we are all going to live longer than our parents.
Plan accordingly
Younger dentists, who have just qualified, should easily reach 100 years of age (I personally am aiming for 120).
They will also be working longer and must plan accordingly. Thus, if you are currently not enjoying what you do, you need to plan to change things.
You don’t have to rush into it. But make a plan that within five years you will be at a place where you enjoy going to work, or a plan that shows you will be happy for the following 10-15 years.
That may mean making some short-term sacrifices in order to gain in the long term.
Work and play
You should also be looking to get your balance right in terms of work and play.
Remember, working 20/30 years longer means you will have more work and more play. Also do not be afraid about changing completely, whether within dentistry or outside.
As we pass the longest day, let’s be positive about the future. In addition, let’s look forward to a summer of great weekends and a great holiday. All should be used to recharge our batteries to keep the Monday to Friday enjoyable, ready for the next weekend/break!
Remember to keep talking/meeting/seeking advice from positive people. There are enough out there who will be more than willing to share their life and experiences with you. Run with the positive people and let the negative people talk amongst themselves.
Onwards and upwards towards to August.
Catch previous columns from the Secret Dentist:
- Time to get off the NHS dentistry fence
- A different world
- Booming (private) general dental practice
- With so much turmoil, it’s time to be positive
- Time for change.
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