Have you ever worked at a practice where the owner seems to be oblivious to problems until there’s a fire to put out? There may have been smoke before the flames, but the owner didn’t act to prevent the catastrophe. When people are busy and stressed, they often exhibit reactive rather than proactive behavior.
The definition of “reactive” is acting in response to a situation rather than creating or controlling it, while “proactive” is defined as creating or controlling a situation by causing something to happen or preventing something from happening.
Proactive vs. Reactive Management
Imagine two associates at different practices. Both have young families and ask for a more flexible schedule. At Practice A, the owner recognizes that an associate with young children is often stressed by interrupted sleep, strict child care pickup schedules, and other demands of caring for dependent humans. They also know stress can lead to burnout, which might drive that veterinarian away from equine practice. Understanding the negative outcome this would have on the practice, the owner initiates a practicewide conversation about how to institute a schedule that more effectively meets the team’s and practice’s needs.
At Practice B, the veterinarians have long prided themselves on working until the job is done and providing exemplary service to clients whenever they need it. The practice owner listens to the associate’srequest and states, “Our patients and clients always come first, and they depend on us to be reliably available whenever there is a need. Equine practice is a calling to serve the horse. It’s hard, but that kind of dedication is what we need at this practice. We’ve always done things this way.” The associate, who until now has loved her work, spends the evening evaluating the many available companion animal jobs in her area. Two weeks later, she gives her notice, leaving the practice short a doctor just as the spring rush begins.
Being proactive requires environmental scanning, seeking regular input from others, and monitoring the team’s “temperature.” Does one of the receptionists seem unnaturally quiet? To be proactive, you might kindly say, “I noticed you have been quieter than usual. Is everything OK? Can I help in any way?” If you miss these early signs and fail to be proactive, you might later respond with frustration when several of your appointments are poorly scheduled.
Final Thoughts
Reactive thinking can be positive when you need to immediately address an issue or solve a problem. However, proactive thinking often allows you to avoid major issues altogether.
Related Reading
- Veterinary Wellness Briefs: Understanding Quality of Life Measures
- Veterinary Wellness Briefs: Understanding Compassion Satisfaction
- Veterinary Wellness Briefs: Communicating Boundaries in Equine Practice
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