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Five lessons for living and working

Credentialing Resource Center Connection, March 10, 2004

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Dear Credentialing Colleague:

The chair of a medical staff cultural diversity committee chair once told me about "five everyday lessons from Buddha" that he sent to all hospital managers and medical staff leaders at his organization. Medical staff services professionals (MSSPs) may also benefit from these lessons. Take a look.

1. Don't strive for perfection--You will free yourself from undue pressure and improve your problem-solving skills when you accept flaws. I've found that hospital leaders often strive for perfection. However, a hospital's medical staff will never be a "perfect" organization. Individual beliefs and concerns, and many external forces will constantly influence the organization. Remember, the most important task of today's leader is to constantly strive to resolve these issues, which requires patience and great problem-solving skills.

2. Expect change--Accepting change as a fundamental part of life will make the unknown less scary and stressful. MSSPs undoubtedly recognize their world as one of constant change. Ensure your staff understands change is constant. Change can be understood and accepted, but never prevented.

3. Downplay materialism--Take a look at what you already have, and over time you can break free from the cycle of wanting. Hospital leaders desire greater influence and control within the organization. They should realize that influence comes with time and progressive involvement.

4. Pay it forward--The joy you get from giving will spread to others and ultimately come back to you. You should encourage physicians and others to refrain from playing "old tapes" at meetings with their colleagues and management. No joy is derived from this practice.

5. Sit still--Sitting still teaches you to tune into your thoughts and feelings, which will help you handle stress. Medical staff leaders must put behind them the mentality of, "I've got to run now; I'll deal with my ulcer later."

Adopt these five lessons to improve your ability to lead, and encourage other hospital leaders to do the same. Applying these principles to your everyday activities will reduce your stress level and improve the overall organization.

That's all for this week.

All the best,

Hugh Greeley

http://www.greeley.com/seminars/

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