Creating Unforgettable Memories. Are You Keeping Secrets?

“Love and respect you so!” is how the email ended. It was completely unexpected but certainly not surprising when an email from a colleague ended this way.

What happened to me in that very moment? First, I was surprised at how my world stopped and a flood of wonderful feelings came over me. Then in a quick flash, I reflected upon all that I have worked so hard to accomplish in my career. I reflected upon the person who said that to me, thoughts of her unmatched leadership in our industry, that she had been the springboard to my learning everything dental and then I came back to the present. Wow. This person had these five words on her mind and didn’t keep it a secret. What a gift.

I know someone that can hear a compliment then say, “Yeah, but I have made so many mistakes in my life.” This person has a hard time fully receiving the gift of a compliment. Have I made mistakes? Of course, but in that very moment, I was lifted up and had no memory of any mistakes I have made.

Psych 1. The assignment was to extend three genuine compliments a day. Record the compliment, who it was extended to and what their reaction was. The professor warned us it can changes lives. One of several people I targeted was a co-worker who in my mind “is always making mistakes” and made coming to working miserable. I began to search for the things she was doing right, extended the compliment and soon she was asking me how I wanted this and that done. He did warn us it could change lives! Our working relationship was never better.

Imagine what could happen in our work world if we applied this to our clients and team members. Maybe start it out as a team activity. And what about our patients? Don’t they deserve to be acknowledged for a job well done? Let’s say the patient is waiting to see the Dr. and out of the blue, you walk into the room, sit down, look your patient in the eye and say something like, “You know John, I’ve been meaning to tell you something. We know that coming to the dentist isn’t most people’s favorite thing to do but you always make our lives easy here. You’re always on time, you’re always kind to everyone and you always come prepared to take care of any necessary business. I just wanted you to know that you are one of our favorite family members.” Perhaps John understands the importance of presenting himself to the world in this way but no one has ever acknowledged him for it.

“Love and respect you so!” Treasured words. Treasured memories. You’ll never know how sharing your thoughts can affect someone else if you’re keeping secrets.