I Do It Myself!

My three-year-old is the funniest little girl on the planet. She keeps me on my feet and cracks me up all the time. Although she has her tantrums, her giggles are much more effective in getting my attention – and she knows it. Its because of this that she has learned the art of comedic timing. After a job well done, we do a high five, a finger touch and a fist bump. She is awesome.

I think we all learn how to get what we want very early in our lives. While one approach may work for one, it may not work for another. And I always say, “know your audience”.

I wonder how many healthcare providers know their audience. Some will say that it is different everyday. So, how do we make sure that everyone in healthcare, while wanting to please many stakeholders, remembers that it’s a team approach?

I’ve been to many collaborative conferences, and summits, and advisory boards, etc. And I’ve seen first-hand how many hospitals pull waste and unnecessary cost out of their processes with the help of outside partners. It can be done. But it takes guts to look at yourself and accept that you may need some help. My three-year-old demands, “I DO IT MYSELF”! Sometimes she does do it herself. But, sometimes she simply can’t, and I’ll step in to help.

We all want to think we can do it ourselves. But in the wise words of Dr. Seuss,

“I’m afraid that some times
you’ll play lonely games too.
Games you can’t win
’cause you’ll play against you.”

Sometimes it’s hard to see what we need. Sometimes we need someone to step in and help. I’m going to take my own advice and “know my audience”.

Audience – I say to you – have fresh eyes look at your organization. It’s never a bad idea to partner with a vendor that has your best interest in mind. Teamwork is much more effective than playing the game alone.

Besides, giving yourself a high five, a finger touch, a fist bump is just…well…weird.

I believe in my work.

Claire