The Joyful DVM Podcast: Empowering Veterinary Professionals

How’s your mood?Think back over the last several days, weeks, or even months…How have you been feeling?These may seem like random questions, but the answers explain Everything about the progress you’ve been making (or not making) toward creating the life you want.Your mood is a direct reflection of your Net Emotional State.So, if you’re spending most of your waking hours stressed, angry, or unhappy then there is no reason to beat yourself up for not making progress toward your goals.It makes perfect scientific sense to me why you are stuck.But, do you know why?Curious? Check out Part 3 of this Vet Med Joy Stealers series.By the end, you’ll understand what’s really been going, and have greater awareness about what you can actually do about it. Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

How are you choosing your clients?Are you intentionally cultivating the clientele you serve?Or, are you just accepting every potential client who seeks your services?Did you even realize you had a choice?You Do!What about your compensation…Are you paying yourself adequately as a practice owner?Do you understand how you can increase your compensation as an associate?Do you know how to move up in compensation as support staff?If your answer is no, then recognize that you are drawing conclusions in the absence of actual information.It’s time to have a conversation!How about your time?Believing you don’t have time to live your life the way you want?You’ll prove yourself true every. single. time. A scarcity mindset left unchecked has undesirable consequences in our veterinary careers and in our lives.Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

Vet Med is an interesting career.Often a Love / Hate relationship.Spectacularly rewarding, and crushingly devastating all at the same time.The events that occur in veterinary medicine are just part of the job.The way that we respond to the events, is optional.OPTIONAL.That’s really hard to see when a client is blasting us on social media, or a six-month-old puppy dies during a routine spay.Frustration, Fear, and Sadness are appropriate emotional responses… But then we take it too far…We make it personal.We tie up those events, and our resultant emotions, with our personal professional abilities and individual self-worth.Friends, those things are not connected.Unhappy clients and poor patient outcomes often steal our joy, but that an optional consequence.Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

Scenario: You’re asked a yes-or-no question.How do you respond?Yes, without hesitating?Awesome!No, without regret?Excellent! No, with remorse because you really want to say yes?Uh-oh… trouble ahead…Yes, with bitterness and anger because you really want to say no?Welcome to the People Pleasers Club… your future is at risk.Not Joking.How did yes-or-no questions get so complicated?!Fear.It all comes down to fear.Fear of disapproval.Fear of conflict.Fear of unknown consequences. Fear of judgment.Fear of saying No. If you’re saying Yes when you really mean No, then you’re probably People Pleasing.If you’re saying No, but justifying your answer with “I can’t…” or “I shouldn’t…” then you still aren’t owning your choice… So who’s getting hurt here?YOU ARE!People pleasing and justifying are self-defeating and disempowering actions.They also aren’t polite or kind because they are disingenuous in nature.These actions destroy self-confidence.These actions inhibit your ability to create the life you want and to become the person you are meant to be.Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

How do you think your life should be?For that matter, how do you believe the world should be?We all have our opinions...... and when it comes to our own lives, the gap between what we believe it should be like and what it actually is, creates emotional turmoil.This is true in our vet med jobs, our relationships with others, and even our evaluations of ourselves.When we focus on what should be, we miss the opportunity in what is.Even when the reality isn't as we'd like it to be, embracing the truth creates power and opportunity... in veterinary medicine and in life. The land of "should be" creates shame, inaction, and hopelessness. It's binary. Either / Or. It's limiting... forcing you to experience your life as the effect of external things.It's victimizing... it builds a false belief that you have no control.It kills self-confidence. So what else? How about AND..."And" opens up opportunity."And" focuses on what's possible."And" creates compassion and hope.Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

You know what they say about assumptions...It holds true in Vet Med as well.There is a collection of broad-sweeping beliefs that many of us have about our lives as veterinary professionals.The most influential beliefs are about the impact of our career choice on our time and income potential. Through the normal course of our veterinary careers, we've absorbed these beliefs from those who have gone before us. The perspectives are common.We've accepted, without question, these conclusions as truth.Absolute truth.Together they become the lens through which we see our lives and what is possible... ... and what is impossible...In this episode, I peel apart the assumptions, examine how these assumptions have led us to draw conclusions that hold us back, and share how you can put your own mind to work to find the solutions that will result in fulfilling Vet Med's life and career.Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

The quality of veterinary clinic culture is directly related to the gap between expectation and reality.The 5 components of culture in veterinary organizations include:LeverageSchedulePayPoliciesLeadershipAt the time of employment and onboarding, expectations in all of these areas are created. What we experience, then, either aligns with expectations or does not. When it doesn't, a gap between expectation and reality is created, trust is eroded, and culture suffers. A suffering culture is displayed in the actions and interactions of employees and leaders. It is these behaviors and the way we feel as we witness these behaviors, that creates the toxicity we often reference. In the thick of it, we totally miss that there is ALWAYS one person we can trust in every single situation... one person who has our back no matter what... the only person who can alter the misery we are experiencing... that person is you.The quality of clinic culture is directly related to the gap between expectation and reality. The personal impact of clinic culture is created only by our thoughts about it. Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

Have you ever been talking to a client and you see them zone out so you switch gears to try to deliver your message a different way, all the while watching for any signs of comprehension or consent?Or have you been delivering unexpected news and find yourself in an explanation loop... rationalizing, justifying, convincing... all while that little voice in your head screams, "Just Stop Talking!".It's all pretty common. There are four main reasons we talk to veterinary clients:ConversationalGathering informationEducatingUpdatingThese four reasons also have four levels of potential risk of personal emotional impact and confrontation.In this episode I break them all down, with examples, and share how adjusting your focus will make both you and the client feel better... not Vet Med word vomit required.Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

It’s no surprise we try to measure our success in Vet Med. We are constantly looking for indications that we are doing it right, or doing it wrong. Unfortunately, success in Vet Med can’t be measured by tangible things.So, in the absence of tangible measures of success, we create our own:Clients who are happy and patients who get better mean we’re doing it right.Clients who are angry, and patients who don’t respond to treatment mean we’re doing it wrong.But, it doesn’t work that way.In this episode, I take at the harmful way we measure our success in VetMed, why we do it, how misplaced responsibility contributes to the problem, and the one true measure of success that provides accurate feedback every time.Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

What’s the hardest part of veterinary medicine? Most of us wouldn’t identify getting bitten, being pooped on, learning to take well-positioned radiographs, or figuring out how to draw blood on fractious cats as the hard parts of our jobs.The hard part is feeling stressed out all the time, and we believe that stress comes from things like cranky clients, conversations about money and euthanasia.The good news is that it doesn’t. We can develop Emotional Resilience and it all starts with understanding the true definitions of “Feel” and using the word appropriate… something most of us are doing wrong.Developing Emotional Resilience in Veterinary Medicine Requires:Identifying the real emotion we are feelingIdentifying the real cause of the emotionLetting go of responsibility for the emotions of othersThe quickest way to increase your self-confidence is by developing your emotional resilience.Subscribe to The Joyful DVM Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, Google Podcast, Stitcher, or TuneIn to stream this episode through your smartphone or tablet.Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

In this episode I take a look at the UP SIDE of Imposter Syndrome in VetMed. Imposter Syndrome is really a state of believing that you’re a fraud and that your accomplishments were more likely accidental than the intentional result of your performance. I dig deep into the phenomenon, and share why it’s both very common, and very normal, in the veterinary profession.Topics include:What Imposter Syndrome isWhy Imposter Syndrome occursWhen Imposter Syndrome started for most of usWhy VetMed provides abundant opportunities for Imposter Syndrome to grow The UPSIDE of Imposter Syndrome that occurs once you understand what’s really happeningI also share my thoughts on Self Confidence, Negative Self Talk & Self Belief, describe how emotions are created, explain the concept of Emotional Normalcy, and describe emotion’s physiologic impact. Subscribe to The Joyful DVM Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, Google Podcast, Stitcher, or TuneIn to stream this episode through your smartphone or tablet.Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

When we try to do everything perfectly, or perfectly planned, we waste a ton of time.What we are really doing is attempting to avoid discomfort and fear. Meanwhile, during the process, we're experiencing discomfort anyway.In this episode I share my journey through decisions, and execution of those decisions, regarding Joyful DVM and The Joyful DVM Podcast.From the early days where fear kept retreating over and over, to very recently when I found myself hiding once again... I share it all.The physical mind has an amazing ability to protect us at all costs... Only through remaining curious so we can recognize our own patterns can we continue to gain clarity and speed in our journeys forward.Perfection has no place in this journey.Let it be messy and you'll find the journey is much easier, and more fun, than you could have ever expected.Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

We view our lives and the world through a perspective we didn't intentionally choose for ourselves.We naturally adopt the belief systems shared by those in our lives who hold influence... parents, family, friends, clergy, teachers, etc. We then naturally compare ourselves and evaluate our lives through that perspective. This leads us to draw conclusions about how we need to be different, or learn more, before we can experience the greatest things life has to offer.But what if we're wrong?What if life isn't actually a journey to become someone different than you are... but, rather, an opportunity to remember who you've always been?What if that perspective you've adopted is just hiding the truth of your nature?I believe it is. In this episode I share why. If you love topics like these, check out my new Free Mini-Course: Spiritual Seeker 101. I'll deliver this on-demand video right to your inbox as soon as it's released. Join the waitlist at cariwise.com/SS101CONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music by: lemonmusicstudio from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

Are you spiritually curious but hesitant when it comes to traditional religion? Or maybe you're very grounded in your traditional religious practices, but wondering about the stuff that never gets covered... I can totally relate.It's a strange situation to navigate. So many rules.Such high stakes.Overwhelming. Scary. It's the perfect reminder of how our physical, human minds prefer the familiar, to the unknown.It's also the most important reason why we must gather information anyway.There comes a point in our lives that we are drawn to a greater understanding of our own existence.Have you felt it?For most it happens once we've achieved those initial goals we've set... usually early adulthood when we've settled into a job and are a few years into our lives "in the real world".It starts as discontent (is this all there is?).It continues as curiosity.And that's the point that, for many of us, it turns to fear.(We are conditioned to be afraid of what we don't understand.)When we give into the fear, and stagnate in our lives, the discontent doesn't fade away... it compounds.For many of us, we turn this awareness of unhappiness on ourselves.(I must be broken... why can't I just be happy with what I have?)The reason... you aren't meant to sit still! You'll never reach the "end" of your development as a human or satisfy your curiosity about life...There is always more to learn.The tricky part, in my experience, is finding a safe place to do it.Well, my friend, I have you covered there! Check out this episode to learn all about my new mini-course: Spiritual Seeker 101.CONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Featured: Spiritual Seeker 101 https://cariwise.com/SS101Music by: lemonmusicstudio from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

What might you be missing?The world around us is designed to keep us very busy.When we are busy, we live in a constant state of distraction... losing focus on what is right in front of us.This lack of presence in our daily lives not only robs us of the opportunity to fully experience our lives as intended, it also blocks out guidance and messages created to help us day-to-day.In this episode I share a story about my cat, Pixie, the flower she brought me, and the ah-ha moment that followed. I also leave you with a little challenge to consider in the week ahead.CONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music by: lemonmusicstudio from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

Do you view others through the lens of judgment or evaluation?There is a significant difference.Evaluation keeps us as a neutral party.It allows us to find opportunities for improvement without making it personal.It lets us be curious, and drops the need to force change.Judgment makes us a victim... and interacting through a victim mentality will never improve any situation.In the workplace, there is no room for judgement.In this episode I share how interacting with others through a lens of judgement is creating the exact opposite of what we desire, and what we can do instead to facilitate change.CONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music by: lemonmusicstudio from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

How often do you pay attention to what's right in front of you?For most of us, when we are in our comfort zone, we tune out.We stop noticing things in our environment... even when things change.We stay nestled in the safety of the familiar, numbing our senses with activities that don't actually enhance our lives.We miss what's right in front of us.A new bird species recently appeared near my home.If I hadn't been paying attention, I probably would have missed it.If I wasn't practicing being present in the moment, I never would have noticed a new bird.But I did.It brought me a great lesson. I share that lesson in this episode.So, I'm wondering, what are you missing simply because you aren't paying attention?What's slipping by you simply because the world has taught you to stop looking?What are you sacrificing to stay within your comfort zone?The price is probably bigger than you realize... and probably something you wouldn't intentionally choose if you were more aware. CONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music by: lemonmusicstudio from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

Do New Years Resolutions really help you make progress toward your goals? I don't think so. I believe they actually create the totally opposite effect by piling on pressure, judgement, shame and guilt. It's not wonder they don't last for most people!In this episode I share what's actually happening and an alternative approach that will keep you starting any new journey, any time, and continuing your progress long after most New Years Resolutions have been left behind.Resources: Aligned Living Bootcampcariwise.com/bootcampCONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music by: lemonmusicstudio from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

Bad days don't just happen to us. We are involved in their creation whether we know it or not. A string of bad days has a real impact on our wellbeing... and our future. "Getting through" the hard stuff is a great skill, but not if it becomes your normal operating system.When survival mode is your only mode, your future is sacrificed.We must consider this when we recognize our own discontent. If what you are experiencing in your life or career right now is NOT what you want long term, then you must consider what's been creating it. As you gain awareness around the influences, you become aware of the opportunities. Truth is, YOU are the only one who holds the keys. YOU have the power to create something different. YOU are not meant to just survive.Thriving is your birthright! It's why you are here. It's what the rest of the universe needs you to do!If you're not sure where to start, check out my resources below:Free Masterclass: Finding Life-Purpose in Times of Chaos. https://cariwise.com/masterclassAligned Living Bootcamphttps://cariwise.com/bootcampCONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music by: lemonmusicstudio from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

When we experience loss; whether it be a loved one, a pet, a relationship, a job, or anything else, grief follows. If we allow the grief to consume us, we don't move forward.If we don't move forward, we disengage from our lives and we lose connection with ourselves.The same thing can happen when we stay excessively busy...... when we use Action to cope with (cover up, avoid) the emotions we experience...We exist, but we don't thrive.We exist, but we don't grow.In this episode I revisit the loss of my cat Willow, and share how I shifted myself out of the grief vortex that threatened to consume me following her passing. I also share the beautiful growth that has occurred in my life since that day and the awareness that prompted me to create a brand new masterclass and share it with you.Masterclass: Finding Life-Purpose in Times of ChaosVisit https://cariwise.com/masterclass to save your seat.CONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music by: lemonmusicstudio from PixabayFinding Life Purpose In Times Of Chaos- Free Event!The 3 keys to unlocking your dreams for the future, even if you're overwhelmed, worn out, or feel trapped by the life you're in.https://cariwise.com/webinar Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

When we live a life of alignment, we are not required to sacrifice our morals, ethics and values. When we life a life of alignment, we do not function through a constant lens of fear.Living this way requires courage... but the benefits far outweigh any discomfort we experience as we're getting started. In this episode I share more about living in Alignment, and why it's so important to do so. RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODEFree Event: Finding Life-Purpose In Times Of ChaosThe 3 keys to unlocking your dreams for the future, even if you'reoverwhelmed, worn out, or feel trapped by the life you're in.https://cariwise.com/webinarhttps://joyfuldvm.com/webinarAligned Life Academy: https://cariwise.com/ALACONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music by: lemonmusicstudio from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

When we recognized feelings of dissatisfaction or resentment, find ourselves questioning the state of our lives, or we feel overwhelmed and lost, there is something happening within us that we often do not see.These seasons of our lives, which we often describe in terms of the challenges we face, have a two-fold purpose.First, they are the experiences we will look back on one-day as pivotal moments in our lives and necessary stepping-stones along our journey. Eventually, one day, it all makes sense. As we get older, we begin to see how these seasons were woven together for our good.But, there is a second purpose, one available at the time of the challenges themselves, that we miss.We miss this purpose because we simply don't know to look for it.The purpose: Intentional Growth Opportunity.It shows up in four different ways, or as four different Growth Indicators:DissatisfactionFeeling LostQuestioningResentmentWhen we learn to identify these Growth Indicators when they appear as components of our experiences, we unlock the opportunities being created by the challenges themselves.In doing this we no longer remain stuck. Instead, we return to active participation in what comes next.I described this phenomena, and how you can apply it in your own life, in detail in this episode.RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODEVet Life Academyhttps://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademyhttps://joyfuldvm.com/webinar CONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

In this episode I had one goal... to create a list of the most important perspectives to keep in mind as you navigate your career as a veterinary professional.Truth is, these perspectives are also helpful in your entire life.See, our experiences often cloud our perception of reality... and not in a good way.It's easy to get caught up in negativity and drama. In Vet Med, the opportunities are amplified.Amplified... but not inevitable. It's through Intentional Perspective that we create a different experience for ourselves.In this episode I'm taking the guess-work out of it by giving you a list of perspectives that will serve you well in your career and beyond.I suspect if you'd listen to this episode every day for 2 weeks, you'll find your overall sense of wellbeing, and your outlook on life and the future will be improved. RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODEVet Life Academyhttps://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademyCONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

Having a great day in vet med does not require smooth sailing.It doesn't require clients to be nice, or coworkers to be productive. It doesn't even require you to get your lunch, or leave on time. What keeps most of us from experiencing a great day is the focus we keep giving to the circumstances that are less than ideal...Entitled clientsManagers who don't careLunches missedAnd then we compound the negative impact by believing those things must change before having a great day is possible.The truth is, focusing on the negative creates very real, and detrimental, results:It erodes relationshipsIt destroys our emotional wellbeingIt blocks possibility and potentialThankfully, the solution is completely within your control... allowing you to flip a pattern of bad days into a new habit of great ones all on your own.In this episode, I explain exactly how to do it, and why you must begin if you want to create a higher quality life experience for yourself. RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODEVet Life Academyhttps://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademyCONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

Are you ready to change your life? Your instinct is to answer yes... but you may be lying to yourself.Your actions and beliefs probably tell a different story.There are three questions that will help you determine if you are really ready to experience your life in a different way.In today's episode I explore those three questions, and share the one think you MUST do, if you are ever going to create a different reality for yourself. RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODEVet Life Academyhttps://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademyCONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

How are you talking about the dreams you have for yourself and your future?Do they live in phrases such as "Some day I will....""I wish I could...""When I ..., then I will..."Are you waiting on permission to move forward?Are you judging yourself when you recognize discontent?Many of us believe if we elect to pursue something different in our lives today, that it somehow discounts the value of what we pursued and created before this point... that in some way it makes that prior pursuit a waste of time, waste of money, or a mistake.I assure you, it is none of those things!You are a living being... ever growing and evolving.Your physiology is proof of how important it is to keep changing, growing, renewing!In this episode I explore the importance of giving yourself permission to pursue big shifts in your life and invite you to join us in workshop where we will strategically analyze our current life and career experience against the dreams we have so we can identify the gap and exactly what we need to do tactically and energetically to move forward.To learn more visit: https://joyfuldvm.com/lifejobworkshopRESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODEStrategic Strategic Life & Job Analysis Workshop https://joyfuldvm.com/workshopVet Life Academyhttps://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademyCONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

What are you spinning about? Where does your mind land when you're not busy with work or other life activities? What happens in the silence? Most of us have a group of worries and scenarios that play constantly in the background. When we have down time, they become front and center... and so we engage with them. But is it USEFUL? The answer- NO. Never. That auto-pilot stack of anxiety-inducing thought patterns does not serve you, the person you want to be, or the future you want to create. It's also optional. See, it's just a habit. One that was formed unintentionally over time. It's formation was so subtle that you may not even realize you aren't required to give it your attention, let alone know that you can banish these useless thought habits once and for all. To ever create a life and career of joy and fulfillment, this is work you must do.There's no fast way around it, but you can do it! We can start together in the Strategic Life and Job Analysis Workshop... 4 hours where you'll define what you want, and discover what's been keeping you from having it all along. RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODEStrategic Strategic Life & Job Analysis Workshop https://joyfuldvm.com/workshopVet Life Academyhttps://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademyCONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

Do you know that you can predict your future? You've been doing it, even if you haven't been aware. This is actually good news, because when you learn how it works, you can begin leveraging your ability to create what you want.There are three things that block your ability to maximize your future-creating superpower. In this episode I share what those blockers are, and what you can do to move beyond them so you can take control of your life. RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODEStrategic Strategic Life & Job Analysis Workshop https://joyfuldvm.com/workshopVet Life Academyhttps://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademyCONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

In this episode I explore Negativity in Veterinary Medicine, and share three components required to eliminate it from our organizations and our personal experiences, once and for all. RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODEStrategic Strategic Life & Job Analysis Workshop https://joyfuldvm.com/workshopVet Life Academyhttps://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademyCONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

Imposter Syndrome is a common topic in our profession... one that is creating disastrous consequences in our lives. In today's episode, I share once again about imposter syndrome and explore Five Key Points:Imposter Syndrome definedThe reason for the labelThe little known truth about this "diagnosis"The compounding negative consequences of the Imposter Syndrome identity Imposter Syndrome's relationship with the normal human experienceBottom Line... the labels we apply to ourselves create limitations in our lives. Breaking free from those limitations first requires releasing the labels themselves.RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODEVet Life Academyhttps://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademyCONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

In this episode I share the Key To Freedom, and explain how most of us are going about it all wrong... and creating unnecessary suffering for ourselves in the process.Many of us dream of experiencing more freedom in our lives and we work really hard to create or obtain the variables we believe make freedom possible.The truth is, we're going about it all wrong.Freedom isn't something we achieve through action. It's not dependent on the perfect work schedule, the absence of work, the presence of large sums of money in the bank or a healthy retirement account.It's not contingent on the people we work with, the family obligations we're under, or even our personal health.So if you're working really hard to create freedom, and believing it's never going to be enough... you'll never be free... well, you're right. But don't despair! The path to creating freedom for yourself is much easier than the path you've been on. In this episode I explain why, and how to move forward the right way for yourself. RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODEVet Life Reboot Coursehttps://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademyStrategic Life and Job Analysis Workshophttps://joyfuldvm.com/workshop CONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

If you're having a hard time experiencing anything other than stress and anxiety in your life and Vet Med career, this episode is for you! Inside I describe why so many veterinary professionals go from confidently pursuing their calling to regretting their career choice once they get out into the real world. I also share what you can do to re-anchor in the truth of your own vet med journey so you can get back to enjoying life from a state of unshakeable peace.RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODEVet Life Academyhttps://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademyStrategic Life and Job Analysis Workshop https://joyfuldvm.com/workshop Self Exploration Activity https://joyfuldvm.com/PEACE CONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

Veterinary Professionals are NOT mentally unstable. This profession does not attract, or create, the crazies! Entertaining either of those beliefs is not useful... and has the potential of turning into it's own self-feeding vortex.No Thanks! In this episode I dig into the factors that contribute to the wellbeing challenges we experience:Compassion-Driven personalitiesPersonal InsecuritiesAcademic Culture of BullyingI also explore why we are MORE POWERFUL than all of that combined!RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODEVet Life Academyhttps://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademyhttps://joyfuldvm.com/align CONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

We are taught that if something feels bad, then we shouldn't pursue it. Although that may make sense in some circumstances, most of the time it holds us back from taking the actions we need to take to stay in alignment with ourselves, and move toward our goals and dreams.In this episode I explained why Right decisions sometimes feel sooooo terrible, and shared a recent experience that helped me untangle this dichotomy in a tangible way. I also shared why it is essential that we follow through with our "right decisions" even when it feels terrible is exactly what you need to grow your self confidence and move toward your dreams.RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODEVet Life Academyhttps://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademyCONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

By nature, veterinary professionals tend to be very compassionate… at least outwardly so.We also tend to be very judgmental when it comes to ourselves.Despite what we may believe, this self-criticism is not self-contained.In this episode I explore how the lack of compassion we have for ourselves is impacting the compassion we are able to extend to others and share four indicators that help us see where we have opportunity to create more acceptance for ourselves.RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODEVet Life Academyhttps://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademyCONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me! Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

We are greatly influenced in veterinary medicine, and in life, by the people we spend time with. Whether physically, or virtually, the impact is real.In this episode I explore the negative impact we experience in our lives and careers from mentors we don't choose for ourselves. I also walk through a process for evaluating the impact of the influencers in your own life.RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE Influence Finder Worksheet https://joyfuldvm.com/85-resourceVet Life Academyhttps://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademyCONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me! Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

It's not uncommon for veterinary professionals to realize years into their careers that something is missing in their lives. The veterinary career has become all consuming in regard to focus, time and energy, resulting in a life that is tethered and disengaged. This lack of progress in our lives is fueled by two different things that keep us stuck... and they're sneaky. One is a commonly practiced behavior, the other is a pattern often awarded. Neither, however, are useful in helping us continue on our life journey. In this episode I discuss the two sneaky patterns that keep us stuck, and what we can do about it. RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE Free Webinar: How to Stop Sacrificing Your Mental Health & Wellbeing for your Veterinary Career, The 3-Part Strategy for Decreasing Anxiety and Making Work-Life Balance Possiblehttps://joyfuldvm.com/webinarJoy Vet Alliancehttps://joyfuldvm.com/joyvetallianceVet Life Academyhttps://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademyCONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

Empowered Perspective: Daily chaos keeps us disconnected and robs us from experiencing the evidence of unwavering support and limited possibility that is all around us. When we intentionally reconnect with the truth of the moment, and stay curious about all that is around us, it becomes much easier to slide through the chaos and come out anchored and peaceful on the other side. In this episode I share several recent experiences that snapped me out of stress and into the present moment and truth of the support I could not see. RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE Joy Vet Alliancehttps://joyfuldvm.com/joyvetallianceVet Life Academyhttps://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademyCONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

Living on autopilot is a survival mechanism for veterinary professionals. Today I'm sharing how you can determine if you're in autopilot survival mode, what you unintentionally create for yourself by staying there, and one thing you can begin doing today to become more active in your own life.RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODEJoy Vet Alliancehttps://joyfuldvm.com/joyvetallianceAlternative Career Guide 2022 Editionhttps://joyfuldvm.com/jobguideCONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

Empowered Perspective: What you can achieve is only limited by what you believe about yourself. Your credentials and prior experiences make up only a tiny fraction of the success equation. RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODEJoy Vet Alliancehttps://joyfuldvm.com/membershipAlternative Career Guide 2022 Editionhttps://joyfuldvm.com/jobguideCONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

Veterinarians and veterinary technicians are often asked by others about how to go about pursuing veterinary careers. Many times, veterinary professionals discourage others from the career path.Although it may seem like simply giving advice, discouraging others from pursuing a career in veterinary medicine actually represents much more than just an opinion for the person giving it. In this episode I explore the most common reasons cited for discouraging veterinary careers, and how it is those reasons that limits what's possible for those who believe them.RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODEJoy Vet Alliancehttps://joyfuldvm.com/membershipAlternative Career Guide 2022 Editionhttps://joyfuldvm.com/jobguideCONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

Empowered Perspective: The certainty you hold onto in times of darkness make all the difference as you wait for the light to reappear.RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODEJoy Vet Alliancehttps://joyfuldvm.com/membershipAlternative Career Guide 2022 Editionhttps://joyfuldvm.com/jobguideCONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

Gathering information from experts... good move. Believing that experts know what's best for you, or believing them without question when their opinion limits what's possible for you.. not so much. Today I'm sharing why we must question everything, and how blindly following any leader can lead you down a path you never intended to go.FEATURED ON THE SHOWExploring the value of expert opinionsThe relationship between expert opinion and absolute truthIntuition versus fearThe "right answer" myth RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE Joy Vet Alliancehttps://joyfuldvm.com/membershipCONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

Feeling Angry, Disrespected, or Unappreciated?Today I’m sharing a tip on how to manage these difficult emotional cascades in the moment, and also the opportunity you have to adjust your habit responses to improve your overall experiences long term.FEATURED ON THE SHOWThe impact of AngerThe real cause of the emotional downward spiralWhat you can do in the moment to refocus, and what happens if you don’tRESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODEStrategic Life Analysis Workshophttps://joyfuldvm.com/workshopJoy Vet Alliancehttps://joyfuldvm.com/membershipCONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me! Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

In this episode I dive right into the opportunities that challenge and change bring each of us in veterinary medicine, and in the world. It’s go time… we can no longer just wait for our jobs and our lives to improve. We must be active participants in the creation of something different. You were made for this. Let’s go!FEATURED ON THE SHOWNavigating ChangePersonal Sacrifice is not the answerHow you are perfectly equipped to create the life and career you want, even now.Imposter SyndromeBurn outRESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODEStrategic Life Analysis Workshophttps://joyfuldvm.com/workshopJoy Vet Alliancehttps://joyfuldvm.com/membershipCONNECT WITH MEInstagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

In this episode, I dive into a common thing that happens once we've been in practice for a while... the identification of what we Don't Want. I explore how this clarity often results in a downward spiral of emotion, what's really going on, and what you can do about it.Featured:Who Are You?The 2 things that influence the development of opinions.Three common conclusions we draw when we are unhappy in our lives.Personality AssessmentResources: Determine Your Personal Human Design >>> https://joyfuldvm.com/humandesignConnect With Me:Instagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me!Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

In this episode, I explain how many veterinary professionals have unintentionally slid into a Passive Life Experience. I describe the 3 things that occur when we are in Passive Mode, and the 3 Factors we can incorporate to recreate an Active Life Experience for ourselves.Featured:Passive vs. Active Life and Career Experience3 Consequences of a Passive Life3 Factors that move us from Passive to Active participation in our livesResources: Joy Vet Alliance Join here >>> https://joyfuldvm.com/joyvetallianceConnect With Me:Instagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvmFacebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/Website: www.joyfuldvm.com/Thank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me! Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

In this episode, I share about the recent loss of my heart cat, Willow. I share about what happened, the extreme grief I experienced, how I moved through that grief, and what I learned in the process that can help all veterinary professionals and pet owners who have experienced losses of their own. Featured: Pet LossThe Grief ProcessLessons LearnedResources:https://joyfuldvm.com/petloss Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

In this episode, I explore the emotion of anger and discuss why holding onto anger in veterinary medicine feels very powerful and accepted. Featured: Lower Brain / Higher Brain generation of angerNegative / Positive emotionAnger as a coping mechanismResources:Joy Vet Alliance: https://joyfuldvm.com/membership Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

In this episode, I share insights into why there can be no reward without risk and why you should do the thing that scares you the most.RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:Vet Life Academy https://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademyThank you so much for listening! If this episode supported you in any way, the best way you can pay forward is by taking a screenshot of this episode and sharing it on social media or with your team, and tag me! Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay