I always wish I could have shared my own experience to my former self coming out into clinical practice. But guess what? I get to now share some of my pearls with you so that you can avoid some of the mistakes I’ve made out of school.
So here it is:
Location:
I decided on a location far too quickly including an extended 3-year lease without the proper analysis and steps prior to going into location.
It is important when selecting a location to first do market research, SWOT analysis, and deciding if this is an area you can see yourself in for a long time. Additionally, you may need to have your credentialing set-up in advance, which may take 60-90 days to complete.
Key takeaway: Start with a small space and low overhead costs.
Needing a lot of financial resources:
I thought I needed to have a lot of financial resources to grow my business—the best furniture, the best advertising in various magazines, etc.
However, I didn’t think the cost was worthwhile to attend conferences which I’ve found has been a critical piece to my clinical knowledge and practice growth.
Key point: Put financial resources in areas where you can get your highest return on investment (FOI) and build your networks.
Self-care:
This is a mistake I’ve made and I think many going into private practice. It is something that can easily be forgotten because after all we are just trying to get our business up and running.
It is a struggle for us all, but when you are transitioning from school into running a business this is a completely new language.
It is important that you fuel yourself in other ways including good food, sleep, exercise and make sure at least once a week you are doing something that brings you joy. If not, what are we doing this all for? I
n full transparency, I need to remind myself of this constantly even after 12 years of practice because I LOVE seeing patients and I LOVE to work.
Key takeaway: Focus on at least 1 self-care practice once a week.
These are just some quick tips. I talk about this and much, much more in my online coaching program. If interested in having a free strategy session with me, check out www.naturalpreneurs.com
Dr. Jaquel Patterson is a naturopathic physician and Medical Director of Fairfield Family Health. She has over 11 years of experience with a focus on Lyme disease, autoimmune conditions, allergies, women’s health, anxiety and depression and childhood developmental disorders. She is active member of ILADS, AAEM, MAPS and CNPA. She also serves as the President for the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians. If you are interested in a 10 minute complimentary consult with Dr. Jaquel, please call us at (203) 254-9957 or email info@fairfieldfamilyhealth.com