Every January, we tell ourselves the same thing. This is the year we slow down. This is the year we fix the problems. This is the year the practice finally feels better to run. Then the schedule fills, the patients show up, and before you know it you are right back in reaction mode wondering how you ended up in the exact same place again. That is not a motivation problem. It is a planning problem.
In our latest episode, the DPH coaches and I lay out two simple frameworks you can use immediately. First, start with what is frustrating you in the practice, the things you keep stepping over. Then run it through this 3-step planning flow:
- Decide what you want one year from now
-
Break that into quarterly priorities
-
Turn those into weekly actions that fit into your real schedule
Second, if you want clarity and alignment fast, use these six questions with your team:
- Why do we exist?
-
How do we behave?
-
What do we do?
-
What is our strategy for success?
-
What is most important right now?
-
Who is going to do what?
If you do not create the space, it will not happen. You cannot lead and plan when you are buried in patient care and trying to “work on the business” after a full day of dentistry.
If you want 2026 to feel intentional instead of just busier, listen to the episode. Then pick one frustration, run it through the 3 steps, and bring the six questions to your next leadership meeting. That is how the year actually changes.
If this episode hits home and you want help turning your plan into execution, I am hosting a live virtual 3-day Freedom Practice Workshop, February 19 to 21. It is for dentists who want a practice that runs on systems and leadership, not owner dependency. If you are serious about taking back control of your time and building real leverage this year, this is it.
