The new year is upon us and it’s time to consider all you can accomplish in 2024. Are you stagnant? Do you feel content and ready to proceed with your norm? Or, do you have a long list that you’re ready to jump into to achieve more?
Stagnation means not developing or advancing. One of the greatest joys in life is learning something new, growing, and bringing a new skill into your day. Many people start their day with a routine of meditation and journaling to keep themselves on track and motivated. Others read, attend courses, and listen to podcasts to stay in the know. Many of us want to maintain the passion of being a continual learner.
Reflecting on the numerous years I’ve been in dentistry, I remember my moments of stillness, and the feelings I had of being stagnant turned into my greatest transitional phases. I took the necessary steps to get out of that idle position. Focusing ahead, I’ve always wanted to learn more, and being a continual learner gets me there. Growth isn’t always comfortable, and it may be borderline fearful. It doesn’t have to be expensive. You may find your next steps reading a book or listening to a podcast. You may find the answers in your network or from a mentor/coach. Learning will bring opportunity and may be exactly what you need to get excited about the new year.
In 2024, RDH will offer numerous ways for you to grow, progress, and advance. RDH will provide RDH Extended programs, RDH Critical Thinking programs, and RDH Under One Roof in Denver, Colorado. To expand your reach, we’ll once again bring RDH Evolution to you at RDH Under One Roof. For the educators, we’ll be collaborating with JELL-ed and Learn2Prevent to offer a full day of calibrated courses to assist with your professional requirements.
In this issue, we’re looking forward to February, when we recognize National Children’s Dental Health Month. There’s content from Anne Rice on the value of vitamin D levels and children’s oral health. Bethany Montoya shares her influential insights for treating pediatric patients, and Dr. Samantha Farrar takes a deep dive into the world of dental sealants.
Building on the new year, Amanda Hill discusses recent research conducted by iTrac that shares salary survey results and the state of the RDH career.
Finally, thank you to the Colorado dental hygienists who coordinated a photo shoot to welcome all of us to their home state for RDH Under One Roof at the Gaylord Rockies Resort and Conference Center on July 18–20. Here’s to 2024 and embracing opportunities to achieve more!
