Be a lion, not a mouse

There are some topics you just don't feel comfortable talking about, not even with your closest friends. So imagine opening up and sharing your deepest, darkest secrets with 40,000 complete strangers. That takes a lot of courage, doesn't it? That's just what authors Shawn McVey and Joanne Light have done this month. They're sharing their own intensely personal experiences with the hope that they can help others.

Portia Stewart

Courage isn't a skill you'll find in many course books, but it's a critical piece of success. It's the tool that allows you to gently say "no" to the client who always pushes too far or have that difficult discussion with the co-worker who consistently tramples on your feelings.

It's not a "you have it or you don't" skill. You can build your courage with practice. And acting with courage doesn't mean you're not scared; it only means you have the strength to face your fears and tackle that tough talk with your boss you've been avoiding.

You're probably doing many courageous things already. It takes courage to offer your opinions, as readers have on page 8. It took courage for credentialed technicians in California to face the scrutiny of the profession and fight for the right to create a relief hole when they place catheters. And it takes courage to face belligerent clients and stand up for yourself and your practice.

You'll see lots of suggestions in Firstline this month that require courage, but I know you can do it. When you use your courage to face the issues you've been avoiding, you'll feel better—even if you don't get the results you hoped for.

I know a lot about being a mouse. I hate confrontations, but as a mother and a pet owner, I've learned there's a little lion inside of me when I need it.

Ready to share your stories of courage? Write to us at firstline@advanstar.com

Portia Stewart, Editor

firstline@advanstar.com