With Thanksgiving approaching, I’ve been thinking about gratitude and how important it is to pause and recognize the people, experiences and opportunities that have helped us grow.

As dental hygienists, we often focus on what’s next. The next course, the next skill to develop, the next area we want to improve. There is always something more to learn!

But before looking ahead, take a moment to look back.

What do you do more confidently today than you did a year ago?

Perhaps you feel more comfortable explaining a treatment recommendation, caring for a client with complex needs or using a technique that once felt unfamiliar. Maybe you’ve improved your documentation, introduced a new approach or had a client conversation that helped someone take a step toward better oral health.

These moments deserve recognition. They show that your learning is making its way into your practice.

This reflection also connects beautifully with our Quality Assurance activities. Whether you maintain a learning portfolio, document continuing education or work toward professional learning goals, reflecting on your experiences can help you recognize progress and identify your next steps.

Before asking, “What do I need to work on?” consider:

• What have I learned, and how have I applied it?
• What progress have I made toward my learning goals?
• Where do I still feel uncertain or curious?
• What would help me grow in that area?

You may discover that you’ve made more progress than you realized. You may also find that an experience in your practice points you toward a meaningful new goal.

Your next learning goal can begin with a real question, a client experience or something you would like to do with greater confidence.

This week, I encourage you to set aside a few minutes to write down one area where you’ve grown and one area you would like to explore next. And if someone has supported your growth, let them know. A colleague, mentor or educator may have made a difference without realizing it.

I’m grateful for our rdhu community and the opportunity to learn, connect and grow alongside you. Seeing you bring new ideas into your practices, ask thoughtful questions and support one another continues to inspire me.

Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend, with time to pause, reflect and appreciate how far you’ve come.

With gratitude,

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH, BSc ~ President, rdhu

Your Professional Growth Partner™