8 things that are holding you back

Are you ready to take your practice to a higher level? Having problems getting there? We think we know why. Most likely, eight things are holding you back from getting what you want. Fix these eight common problems and watch your life totally change.

Richard H. Madow, DDS, and David M. Madow, DDS.

1. You compare yourself and your practice to others.

Please do not do this. You really have no idea how successful other docs may be. Even if they are successful, you don't know how many mistakes they made and how much it cost them in time and money to get to where they are now. When you compare yourself to more successful practices, you put yourself in a no-win position. Instead, compare where you are today to where you were a short time ago. This will give you a much more accurate picture of your progress.

2. You are constantly questioning yourself.

Don't spend your time and energy wondering if what you're doing is going to work, if you are worthy of success, and if this is the right thing to do. Instead, ask yourself how will I make this happen, what is the first step, who can help me with this, and more. Don't you think this is a much better way to spend your energy?

3. You think you need others' permission.

Are you the type that needs approval and permission to get started with a new idea? Do you care about pleasing everyone around you? Stop this dangerous habit now! Only you know what is best for you. Follow your gut feelings. Follow your heart. Trust your instincts and forget about asking for approval.

4. You're waiting for the right time.

You are likely putting something off right now because you feel it's not the "right time." There are just a few more things you need to "square away" and then it will be right. Maybe the economy needs to improve a bit. Maybe you are waiting until after the holidays or until you pay off your house. We've all done this. It is ridiculous. It's your mind playing games with you. The best time is right now, so get started and stop this procrastination.

5. You expect instant results and when you don't get them you quit.

Getting instant results with anything is extremely rare. Nothing we have done in more than 25 years has yielded instant results! And it's very unlikely you will get them either. If you know you are on the right path, keep up the hard work, stay focused, and never quit. Results will ultimately come to you. Too many people quit just before things are about to take off.

6. You listen to everyone but yourself.

Sure, everyone has their own opinion on what you should do. But be careful. Please listen to your heart. If we had listened to all of the "other people" when we were starting the Madow Brothers, guess what? We would not be doing what we are doing right now. Stop trying to get everyone else's opinion and just get going. What is the worst thing that can happen? Ask yourself that!

7. You are not flexible.

If you want to be super successful taking things to the next level, you must be flexible in your thinking and your actions. If you are super rigid on doing things only one way, you need to rethink this. Have a plan, but be ready to change as you start to see results coming in. Remember, if you keep doing things the same way and expect the results to keep improving, most likely you are wrong. Be flexible!

8. You are trying to go alone.

Very few people can take their ideas and practice to the next level totally alone. We highly recommend reading, taking courses, and masterminding with the best. Please don't confuse this with "waiting for others' permission" or "listening to everyone but you." They are totally different. We have worked and masterminded with tons of people, but when it came down to doing our thing, we didn't let the naysayers stop us in any way. Learning from others who have already achieved what you want to achieve is worth its weight in gold!

In 1989, Richard H. Madow, DDS, and David M. Madow, DDS, founded The Madow Brothers with the goal of helping their fellow dentists achieve success and happiness in their practices. For more information about their e-letters, audio series, New Patient Mail marketing program, Dental Powerhouse group, their live presentations (including "How To Love Dentistry, Have Fun, and Prosper," "The Ultimate Dental Boot Camp," and especially "TBSE"), and more, check them out at www.madow.com.

The comments and observations expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of DrBicuspid.com, nor should they be construed as an endorsement or admonishment of any particular idea, vendor, or organization.