While many of us enjoyed this Memorial Day outdoors with friends and family, relaxing or spending time at a neighborhood cookout; I hope that each of us took a moment to reflect and show our gratitude to the heroic men and women who sacrificed so much so to ensure that we can enjoy these freedoms. Thank you to all our members and their families who have served our great nation.
Memorial Day is also widely acknowledged as the unofficial start of summer---although summer does not officially arrive until June 21.
Mention summer and we often think of vacation, BBQ, long days and enjoying cool drinks. I’m sure that if I asked a group of you to tick off the images that “summer” triggers, the list would be long and diverse. Whether you see mountains, beaches, tennis, a hammock in the back yard or something else, I suspect that these images are relaxing. When we are calm and relaxed, stress dissipates and we are taking control of our wellness.
VHMA's May 2018 Insiders Insight Report focuses on wellness plans. In the veterinary industry we understand the value of promoting wellness care to our clients to ensure the health and well-being of their pets. Maintaining good health and well-being is important for all of us. With our role as leaders and managers comes a lot of responsibility. The burden of that responsibility can build stress and tension and have an impact on our health. Take time to take care of yourself, as well as your team.
One way to address stress is to unplug. Take a break from work so that you can recharge. Don’t put off a vacation…it’s essential to your mental health. A vacation doesn’t have to mean a whirlwind tour of Europe---although it sounds like a great trip! Do something you enjoy, even if it’s just a weekend ‘staycation’ to catch up on the latest Netflix shows.
Those of us who are proponents of VHMA Life know how important being part of this association is to maintaining perspective when working in the hectic, ever-changing veterinary industry. VHMA members rely on their colleagues for advice, support and feedback. It is the camaraderie among members that eases the stress of managing a practice. Knowing we are not alone and there is always someone there to help.
I would like to officially welcome you to the unofficial start of summer. May your summer be filled with beautiful weather, great friends, pleasant breaks and clear sailing on the highways and byways you travel.
To health, to wellness, to the VHMA Life!
Jim Nash, MHA, CVPM
VHMA President