The old adage holds true: “Hindsight is always 20/20.” No matter how diligently you prepare and plan for all possible scenarios, there are always things that you would do differently if given another opportunity.

Although energetic, ambitious, and undaunted, many recent young doctors of chiropractic “don’t know what they don’t know” and often repeat a pattern of missteps that could have easily been avoided. Needless to say, it is impossible to know the outcome of every choice, but it is wise to glean wisdom by heeding the experiences of the myriad doctors who have failed (and succeeded) before you.

Whether you are starting your own practice from the ground up or associating with an established doctor, there are a number of practical strategies to improve your potential for success and lessen the likelihood of significant failure. Most of the common pitfalls have practical solutions.

Setting a fee schedule too low. In an effort to be competitive, many young doctors underestimate the value of the treatment they are providing. Study the demographics of your circle of practice and understand the nuances of insurance coverage in your area. You don’t have to be the most expensive doctor in your region, but charge a value that is reasonable and that corresponds to the time, energy, and effort of your service.

Interacting with your patients as if they were your friends. It’s good to be outgoing, winsome, and people- oriented, but in the context of a doctor-patient relationship this dynamic has the potential to create awkward confusion and can undermine your authority. Concentrate your interactions on the patient and why they’re in your office, and be discerning about sharing copious amounts of personal information. It isn’t a perfect art, but orienting your focus on the patient in a professional, friendly, and genuine manner ultimately develops trust and healthy rapport.

Becoming professionally isolated and lacking objective accountability. Whether it’s from paranoid distrust or casual indifference, many doctors end up living on a professional desert island. Actively seek out doctors, businessmen, community leaders, et al., whom you can relate to and trust, and who have the credibility of experience to validate their wisdom. It is absolutely essential to engage in relationships that embrace a balance of encouraging affirmation and constructive, honest truth.

Failing to maintain healthy boundaries between work, family, and recreation. This lesson is almost always learned the hard way. Practicing as a DC should demand a significant amount of focus, time, energy, and discipline, but never at the expense of your health or those closest to you.