Creating a practice vision: Focus on your values and passion

This year will likely be a lot like last year, if you expect it to be. Why? In general, we get what we expect.

So, if you expect your life to be marked by abundance, you instinctively do what it takes to manifest your vision. Many people unintentionally sabotage their efforts to succeed because they fail to develop a vision of what they want. In turn, they don't take the steps needed to realize their vision.

To mold your practice vision, close your eyes and imagine that a genie appeared and offered to grant your every wish for your practice, if you just envision the goal and pursue it with courage.

Focus on identifying your most important values; spell out your vision for your work. Be specific and detailed about:

• where you'll practice

• what animals you'll treat

• what days you'll work

• what will differentiate your practice from others

• what your practice will be known for.

Create a vivid mental image of your ideal practice. Then think about how your vision will help your patients, practice team, family, and community. The most powerful visions involve and positively affect the lives of others.

Joseph S. Rubino is the CEO of The Center for Personal Reinvention, an organization that offers personal coaching and conducts courses to enhance personal effectiveness and business productivity.