A few days ago, I was finishing up a lunchtime run, downing what was left in my water bottle, when I overheard two women in the atrium of my office building talking. “I wish I could do that, but I just don’t have the time,” I heard one say to the other, as she watched me walk by. I could feel my heart drop, realizing they were talking about me. As I walked toward the locker room and while I changed my clothes, I couldn’t stop thinking about those words, “I wish I could do that, but I just don’t have the time.”
You might think that running a busy veterinary practice and everything that goes along with it — reassuring clients, examining patients, performing surgeries and procedures, handling paperwork, managing team members -Â doesn’t leave any time for you. I know what you’re thinking. You feel like you should be doing something productive all the time and taking free time seems like a self-indulgence you don’t deserve. After all, you’re the leader and the practice won’t function without you. Did those invoices get out? Are all the patient prescriptions filled? And so on. It’s an absurd way of thinking. Whatever the reason, you can make time for yourself. It’s really a matter of priorities, planning and time management.
As far as time management goes, there are some basics I like to keep in mind. For you, running your practice should be a priority. But I think you have to first understand what you can realistically achieve with your time and then plan to make the best use of the time available. I always leave enough time for things I absolutely must do yet I make sure there’s some time to handle the unexpected. I also try not to over-commit to others. It helps keep my stress level down.
I find that actually scheduling a time for “me” in my day timer works. For example, I’ll mark 1:30-2:00 pm as my time — and use it to get some fresh air, take a brisk walk, grab a book, meditate or just clear my head. You can do it, too. If you can’t get outside, just head for an empty exam room and make it known that you cannot be disturbed for X amount of time. Make sure it’s something easy, quick and special to recharge your batteries. It lets you know you are important.
I’m amazed at how rejuvenated I feel by leaving the building – even if it’s only briefly. Allowing myself free time during my work day also helps regenerate my energy and mind for tackling big problems or issues I’ve left aside. Maybe a particular patient or case has been troubling you. By walking away from it you might see it in a whole new perspective.
Being busy, hurried and stressed is when I find I need time for myself most. Time and space nourishes my soul and allows me to be more effective. And being more effective means I get things done better and faster.
What makes you think you can’t take 15 to 20 minutes for yourself?