Yes, I’m Deeply Grateful for My Profession of Orthodontics

I am interviewing a guest today – my husband, Galen.

Beth: You’ve had the blessing to work in orthodontics for many years. I’ve often heard you say how deeply grateful you are for your profession – what specifically?

Galen: I started in orthodontic school in May of 1974, started practicing orthodontics in May, 1976, then more than 30 years later, sold my practice and have taught at the CU Orthodontic School for the last 16 years. Over all that time, I’ve grown more and more aware of several facets of this profession I’m especially thankful for:

• First and foremost is the opportunity to have a positive impact in a patient’s life – to see their self-esteem grow by giving them a great smile and a healthy bite
• We get to see our patients over an extended period of time, so we have the opportunity to develop relationships with them
• It is the perfect profession if you like problem-solving and spatial relationship challenges
• It provided a comfortable living for our family – and met our goal of being debt free
• There are always interesting cases – you have continuous challenges and more to learn
• We share this profession with an excellent group of people and enjoy relationships with colleagues focused on the same goals
• You often have the opportunity to be your own boss

Beth: That is a LOT of gratefulness! Any special words of encouragement to your fellow orthodontists?

Galen: Keep Your Why in Mind – We are here to serve our patients.

QUESTION: Whatever your job, have you thought through the reasons to be thankful for it? As you celebrate Thanksgiving, we want to encourage you to pause and consider those important reasons. We would love to hear your thoughts and observations. Please share in the comment section below.