In our veterinary hospital, we have been focusing on culture. Having been in practice for over twenty years, I will attest to the fact that the make up of a practice culture is deep rooted. It has to do with understanding our ‘why’, having a shared vision, an environment free from harassment and the safety net of respect. I’ve learned it also involves investing in communication. Of course, communicating with pet owners is paramount, but in my experience, one of the largest contributors to a positive practice culture is the communication among staff members.
We recently engaged in all team training called Communicate Naturally, where we learned about different communication styles or personality types. We had to complete a quiz, assigning words to describe our true selves and how we see and react to the world.
As we learned about four different colours, or communication/personality types and where we may be on this colour spectrum, I couldn’t help but wonder what colour my main character would be. Then I started to think about my favourite book & movie characters and what their colour might be. Read more
I like planning. I like being organized. I like being methodical, chronological, practical, predictable. It’s not in my DNA to wander the literary landscape without a map, without a plan. And yet this is exactly where I find myself after recently having completed my 13th novel (due for publication this December by Bella Books).
I’m a pushover for stories revolving around weddings, funerals, birthdays and holidays. Everyone has experiences of these relatable events.