there's nothing like your FIRST time

Nerves, uncertainty and self-doubt can all be barriers to getting a start and just experiencing your first. Here’s mine and I’ve decided to share it with you.  I must say, I have always pictured myself in a position where I could help others become a better version of themselves. I too, have sought the same guidance throughout my life whether it be with learning how to perfect a macaroni & cheese recipe, shoot a jump shot in basketball or become a better PT. It’s with great pleasure, I welcome you to join me on my excursion to hopefully leave a lasting impact on a profession I love so dearly. 

Why mentoring?
I realized I found myself going above and beyond to help PT residents, students and coworkers on their journey of becoming a better PT through formal and informal in-services, one-on-one mentoring and organizing hands on lab sessions. Never being bothered to assist with a complicated patient or impatient when they weren’t able to grasp a concept as quick as they may have in previous instances, it finally registered that I may have been meant to do this.   

Some people are just meant to do it
The smartest person in the room does not always equate to the best teacher in the room. They may not even care to do it which is perfectly fine. Some of us enjoy working and are not interested in being the best therapist in the room. As long as your patients are getting better, you’re happy. This too, is perfectly fine. If you’ve made it this far, you’re probably not in that category. Unfortunately, you may be a rare breed. You may not have the resources to get better, but you know you’re destined to be a great therapist. Thankfully, the good news, is you’re not alone. 

Where do we go from here?
We put in the work. I’ve always found myself clinging to the quote, “if it were easy, everyone would do it.” I think it’s easy to underestimate what goes into the process of becoming great at something. You don’t have to be competitive. Subtract that, yes you do. To a certain extent, you have to compete with yourself and ask, “Could I have given more? Worked harder? Been more prepared? Cared more?’’ If yes, that’s your start. Let’s make it happen and get on track to be more consistent with what we know we’re capable of doing.