North Texas Dentistry Magazine, Volume 3 Issue 7 | Page 7

so we can support each other in achieving our dreams and goals. Instead of competing against each other or jockeying for position, we work from a basic philosophy of shared success.” Historically, farmers were counseled not to “cut corners” – not to cut (harvest) the crops all the way to the corners of their fields. The corners were left to share with those in need. Abundance philosophy acknowledges that giving and receiving are interrelated, that scarcity is eliminated by choosing abundance. We believe that we function best through collaboration and support.” notes Dr. Witherspoon. “We collaborate on cases, and our professional approaches intermesh seamlessly. There is no division in our skills. And so if one of us is engaged in something away from the office, the other can step in. This allows us to have time for our interests outside the office and still remain available to our patients and referring colleagues. One of our strengths is our availability.” (Re)define success Photos by Ray Bryant, Bryant Studios Second, define the true goal. Where some might measure success at the bottom line, this team views success differently. “We define success as personal fulfillment,” notes Dr. Regan, “both for ourselves and for our entire staff. We believe that by creating a supportive environment for our team we increase the possibility that each of us will find fulfillment by making our dreams a reality. Rather than making profit the main priority, we make personal growth a primary goal. Reward, in the form of both personal and financial success, can come from that pursuit.” Rather than insisting that staff maintain a single-minded focus on work, team members are encouraged to present a new topic of interest to the group regularly. “One week, someone might explain their new experience with yoga, the next week, someone might share their excitement about a recent trip or their favorite football team,” notes Dr. Small. “We have a very unique group. We respect our staff professionally and enjoy them personally. We support any team member’s aspirations to expand their knowledge and develop their interests – even with the understanding that education and growth may eventually lead them to new chapters in their life away from our practice.” Debbie, NTEA’s office manager, has her own personal leadership coach with whom she collaborates on issues effecting the practice culture. Another staff member is currently working toward a master’s degree in healthcare management. Other talented members of the NTEA team utilize their many skills in creating and maintaining the practice Facebook page and the NTEA e-newsletter. The doctors at North Texas Endodontics define success as personal fulfillment both for themselves and their entire staff. Pictured from left: Dr. David Witherspoon, Dr. Joel Small, and Dr. John Regan. www.northtexasdentistry.com | NORTH TEXAS DENTISTRY 7