Thanks, Natalie! I’ve noticed the same thing. Maybe it’s because it’s long enough for people to really feel like they’ve given it a fair chance? I don’t know, but you’re right. Some people write in asking how I’ve done it, and they don’t know how they can do it as a practice owner. I often use you as an example (in general terms, not by name) of someone who is managing to get out even though you are elbow-deep in commitments. There is always a way.. I love to see that you are making it happen! And now you’ll never have to wonder what it…

I am still working on selling my practice, trying to pay down as much practice debt as possible so I can be free and clear when a sale finally goes through. I am looking forward to having some freedom again, owning a practice to me has been like being in a prison. No matter what, I am ALWAYS tied to it, even if I’m on vacation I have to think about it, check in, make sure my staff have things to do so they can get their hours in so I don’t have to pay unemployment, make sure I have emergency coverage, and on and on and on. Owning a practice is the pits. In many ways it was the worst decision I ever made. But I am still glad I made the choice to do it so I will never wonder “what if”.

Keep writing, I am loving your stories!

MJ- thanks for the input. I never really know if this topic will be interesting for you non-dental-geeks. At least if nothing else, it can be a reminder (or a thorn in your side) to take care of your chompers!

I’m so glad to have your comments, and I especially love to hear how it is on the other side of the world! Ha! I hope it mostly makes you feel better or inspired, or something like that. 😉 Reading this comment actually gave me goosebumps because I know how all that feels. It’s really horrible to feel so empty about your career, especially when you’ve put so much into it. I really do hope you find a way to either like it or get out, and I will look forward to reading your amazing blog when you do it 😀

Others have written in saying the same things you are saying. For me, I never owned a practice, so it was relatively easy to walk away. However, people are sharing their stories and progress of change here, and they are actually selling practices they’ve only owned for only a few years! They haven’t made these huge changes as a direct result of this blog, but I think it’s been nice for people to have a community and a place to go to share their rare experiences in this cult-like field.

Thanks for following. I’ve mentioned before that it’s also really therapeutic for me to have these interactions with others experiencing the same feelings. The support helps me to confirm that I have absolutely done the best thing I could have done for myself in leaving this field. Good luck– you can do it! (Okay, that just sounds corny now!)

I’ve been told for 40 years that I need braces – since I was 13! My current dentist said, “If you want to be able to chew in your 60’s and 70’s you need to get braces.” My teeth are WAY too close together, and I have lost several due to cracking because of the overcrowding.

Okay, I ramble on. Very interesting post, as usual, my friend.

I’ve had some similar experiences over the years- over treating, trying to make me do stuff I didn’t agree with, and have even one doc cheat me out of my pay. Or in other words, blatantly steal from me. That last one was the biggest shock of all, and I never thought that last one would ever happen. That said, most of my relationships with bosses have ended on good terms.

It’s a shame in some ways that you can’t pursue hygiene that way you want to, but it’s also great that you have found a different passion. You are doing really wonderful things for these people, and they really need your help. It’s nice to be appreciated too. How strong you are to choose happiness over income. Many would not do that. You’re right– in the end, none of that money or things will matter.

Thanks, Donna! I always appreciate you input, and I think you are an inspiration, exemplifying that it’s possible to have 2 great careers in one lifetime!