Dooley Noted: 9/2/2014
I thought becoming a co-owner of my own gym would provide me with ample ability to workout when I chose.
Here’s the truth that no one tells you:
When you co-own the gym – and rent space out of it for your practice – your time in the gym as a member is no longer perceived as your own.
Now, I pride myself in being an approachable doctor and teacher. But, maintaining approachability while drawing the line for yourself can be very challenging.
For the past several months, I had put my patients – AGAIN – over my own training. It happened so much that one day, I had to redraw my line.
I had one hour to train between patients.
My patient arrived 35 minutes early, in the middle of my training.
She summoned me over and requested that I see her early, since she was already there.
I was shocked. People come to me to take an active role in their own health. How could my patients cut into my training, with complete disregard to my own self management?
Then I realized the truth: “Because, Dooley, it’s not their job to look out for you. That’s YOUR job.”
So, I told my patient the following:
“I’m so sorry, but your appointment is at 6 pm. I will see you promptly at that time. But I can’t sacrifice my own training for anyone.”
It was the first time I ever uttered those words to a patient.
Her reply shocked me.
Patient: “Okay. I understand. I’ll be here, ready at 6.”
It’s not the patient’s fault for interrupting, if the boundary wasn’t established.
If you want your training time to be all yours, simply claim it.
Establish the boundaries.
As always, it’s your call.
– Dr. Kathy Dooley