A common self-limiting belief that keeps practices small: If I say and do the right things I can get everyone to like me.

Truth: Which is based on the incorrect belief that "...if more people like me I'll be able to help more people." Besides being a vestige from high school, it reflects a blurring of the distinction between being liked and being respected.

By all means, be likeable. Acquire and exhibit the appropriate social skills so you're not off putting to patients or needlessly annoying your support team.

However, your practice will enjoy greater success if you're seen as a respected helper, innovator and leader. Which is only possible when you have clear boundaries, knowing what is your responsibility and what is the patient's responsibility. What many of us forget is that what others think of us is not only out of our control, it's none of our business.

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