For many years, I tried to see as many patients as possible, talk as rapidly as I could, and not give the patients the time that I thought they needed.

Slow down.

That's the advice someone gave to me many years ago. Slowing down and taking that extra moment with the patient makes all the difference between a patient saying yes to treatment or no, or saying yes to treatment and not showing up a few weeks later, or saying yes to treatment, paying me in advance for their care, and showing up for their appointment.

By slowing down, you can connect with your patients, decrease the stress level, and improve your effectiveness. If there are two words of the day that I recommend, they are: slow down.

Take your time, look the patient in the eye, and make sure that they understand everything you have to say.

And then ask, "Is there anything I didn't make clear? Do you need any more time with me? Because I'm here for you."

This small gesture will make all the difference to you and your patients.

Remember, be the gift