How often do you find yourself saying, “I have to…”?
“I have to go to work.”
“I have to make dinner.”
“I have to deal with this difficult patient.”
These phrases are so ingrained in our daily lives that we hardly notice them. But if we take a closer look, this language reflects a mindset that can drain our energy and enthusiasm. It turns everyday activities into burdens and creates a sense of obligation rather than opportunity.
I recently came across someone suggesting to flip the script. Instead of saying “I have to,” say, “I get to”. Putting this into action, I have felt a profound shift.
Saying “I get to” can transform your experience from one of burden to one of gratitude. It can even change how you view your entire life.
The Burden of “I Have To”
When we say “I have to,” we inadvertently position ourselves as victims of circumstance. The phrase implies that we are forced into doing something we don’t want to do, which naturally breeds resistance and resentment. Over time, this mindset can lead to a sense of powerlessness and dissatisfaction, as we begin to see life as a series of obligations we must fulfil rather than opportunities we get to enjoy.
In the dental world, this mindset can show up in various ways:
- “I have to deal with another late patient.”
- “I have to attend that team meeting.”
- “I have to manage the schedule changes.”
When these thoughts become the norm, they can erode your enthusiasm and passion for your work, making every task feel like a heavy burden.
The Power of “I Get To”
The shift from “I have to” to “I get to” is all about perspective. When you replace “have to” with “get to,” you reframe the situation as an opportunity rather than an obligation. This subtle change in language moves you from a mindset of lack to one of abundance and gratitude.
Consider the difference:
- “I get to deal with another late patient” reminds you that you have the opportunity to practise patience, solve problems, and help someone who needs your care.
- “I get to attend that team meeting” acknowledges that you are part of a supportive team and that your input is valued in shaping the practice’s success.
- “I get to manage the schedule changes” shifts your focus to the fact that you have the skills to adapt and make the day run smoothly, which directly contributes to the overall patient experience.
In this context, you begin to see each task as a chance to grow, contribute, and make a difference.
Gratitude: The Heart of the Shift
At the core of the “I get to” mindset is gratitude. Gratitude allows you recognise the value in your experiences, even when they are challenging or uncomfortable. It helps you see the bigger picture and appreciate the positive aspects of situations that may initially seem burdensome. For example, seeing housekeeping as a positive because you have a home to care for is a privilege that many people would dream of.
Gratitude doesn’t mean ignoring difficulties or pretending that everything is perfect. Instead, it’s about acknowledging what you do have and finding value in it. When you approach tasks with gratitude, you transform them from negative burdens into positive experiences.
For example:
- When you think, “I get to go to work,” you’re acknowledging the privilege of having a job that provides for you and your family. You’re recognising that many people are not as fortunate.
- When you think, “I get to deal with difficult patients,” you’re appreciating the chance to develop your communication skills and make a difference in someone’s life, even in small ways.
- When you think, “I get to manage a team,” you’re celebrating the opportunity to lead, inspire, and make a positive impact on others.
The beauty of the “I get to” mindset is that it doesn’t just transform your personal experience—it also has a ripple effect on those around you. When you approach life with gratitude, positivity, and a sense of opportunity, you inspire others to do the same. In a dental practice, this mindset can uplift the entire team, creating a more positive and supportive work environment.
Patients, too, will notice the difference. When you approach your work with enthusiasm and gratitude, it shines through in your interactions, creating a more welcoming and comforting experience for them. Gratitude, after all, is contagious.
The shift from “I have to” to “I get to” may seem small, but its impact can be profound. By consciously reframing your mindset and approaching life with gratitude, you can transform even the most mundane tasks into meaningful opportunities. This shift not only enhances your personal wellbeing but also positively influences your professional environment and relationships.
So the next time you catch yourself thinking, “I have to…”, take a moment to pause, reflect, and reframe. You might just find that life feels a little lighter, a little brighter, and a lot more fulfilling when you focus on what you “get to” do.