Trusting someone can lead to two possible outcomes:

A lifelong ally: Trust can forge enduring relationships.

A valuable lesson: Even if trust is betrayed, the experience is a learning opportunity.

This process taught me that clutter stifles creativity and decluttering fosters mental clarity. Surrounding ourselves with excess possessions forces our brains to work overtime, hindering focus and productivity. By releasing what no longer serves us, we create space for what truly matters.

The distinction between for-profit and not-for-profit entities can be misleading. Regardless of the designation, both types require responsible financial management. Non-profit doesn't mean devoid of profit; rather, a percentage of funds must be reinvested in pursuit of the organization's mission. This understanding is crucial in leadership positions.

I've come to view boundaries as essential containers safeguarding my time, emotional energy, mental well-being, relationships, physical health, and resources. They serve as instinctual protectors, preserving what I value most and allowing room for the experiences that bring me joy. Embracing this perspective, I now envision boundaries as force fields guarding my individuality, ideas, and capacity to love and be loved.

Now, let's talk about change—a topic that's been on my mind lately. Our profession, our workspace, our workflows—they're all evolving. I get it; we're time-strapped, dealing with tight schedules and heavy workloads. But the reality is, we can do more.

Life, as we know, can sometimes feel like it's spiraling in the wrong direction, but the key lies in understanding where our power truly resides and how to reclaim it. Now, I don't mean superhuman abilities; rather, it's about our capacity to steer our lives toward happiness and fulfillment.

Passion is a double-edged sword in the realm of leadership. On one hand, it fuels our drive, propelling us forward, and infusing our organizations with energy and purpose. Yet, on the other hand, unchecked passion can lead to conflicts, creating divides that hinder growth and productivity. How do we harness the fervor that ignites us without letting it consume us?

One powerful lesson I've learned on my leadership journey is the art of asking questions. When faced with conflicting ideas, rather than dismissing them outright, we can open the door to understanding by saying, "That's interesting; tell me more." This simple phrase invites dialogue, encouraging individuals to articulate their viewpoints and fostering an atmosphere of respect.

Throughout my journey, I've worn many hats – from a local leader in my community to state and national leadership positions. But it hasn’t been all sunshine and rainbows. Life, as a leader and as a person juggling multiple roles, has gotten downright messy at times. And that’s okay.

In this series, the ADHA celebrates “Everyday Extraordinary” dental hygienists like you. In part 1, learn about the power of innovation and 5 ways you can jump-start your hygiene career.

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