5 steps to make your medical office epic(er).
Increase productivity, decrease sick days & maximize the office mood.

It’s no secret, sitting for too long and repeating mundane tasks under-stimulates us. This stifles productivity and the desire to clock into work entirely. In the spirit of keeping it snappy and engaging, here are 5 steps to increase productivity, decrease sick days & maximize the office mood.

1. Throw something!
Sitting for prolonged periods of time can get us feeling run down and lethargic, which slows meaningful work and production down to a crawl. When this happens at our office, we break out the hacky-sack and play catch.

Throwing things, other than tantrums, gets your blood circulating, energizes you and breaks your focus, which might have not been effective due to over-thought. Most importantly, IT’S FUN! It gives your staff a chance to bond while coordinating a not so serious task. It causes laughter, which is fun too! It may be irritating to imagine you paying your staff to play catch for 15 minutes, however, the increased productivity will make up for it.

2. Keeping the mood light.
Crunch time builds character. Hardens the softies and enriches your staff with valuable experience. Constant crunch time, on the other hand may leave your staff mentally and physically exhausted and unable to competently perform simple tasks.

My time as president of a medical debt collections agency and dealing with debtors in intense situations has taught me some important lessons; one of which is to laugh!

Laughter is the anti-venom of anger and frustration.

Pop-in a comedy in the DVD player, or tune into the comedy station on Pandora. My personal favorite is listening to anecdotes. So don’t be shy to throw a curve ball and give your staff an entertaining story.

3. Appreciation

“Good job” goes a long way. “Dude, you’re awesome” goes a lot further. Yes, your employees get paid to do their jobs. Praise gets people motivated. Expecting that extra mile from them may come at a price, and it’s not a monetary figure. The price is recognition and appreciation. Let’s not forget, you too, though. Good job, doc! 😉

4. Eat it!

Eating healthy, well balanced meals has its advantages in health AND productivity. High protein, low fat and carb ratios are proven to increase cognitive function, mental dexterity and mood! Healthy eating makes us feel good, feeling good gets the most out of us. Being a healthy eater reduces health risks, helps your immune system fight the good fight!

5. Rituals
Success is a consequence of routine, tried and true; it is what separates the sparsely motivated from those unconsciously immersed in their mission. Creating consistent motivation and excitement will generate momentum and implement a self sustaining system in a short time. Half time Super bowl motivational speeches aren’t necessary.

In closing, it is always easier said than done. Paying an employee and needing to motivate them isn’t what I’m pitching here. The message is to bring the best out of you, your staff, your office and bottom line. Like weight lifting, adding a little more than necessary is what makes you stronger, faster, more indestructible, day in and day out. Go fourth and conquer!