200 years ago, President Jefferson asked Lewis and Clark to map the west. A young country needed to explore the newly acquired Louisiana Purchase and the land beyond. Imagine, the Corps of Discovery as they secure a young, Hidatsa Indian to be the lead interpreter, navigator, and only woman. History has recognized Sacagawea’s leadership by gracing her presence on more statues in our country than any other historical figure to date. Besides her bravery, Sacagawea must have been innately aware of the importance of the expedition. Her name is mentioned 17 times in the explorer’s journal, she birthed a son, and became a symbolic liaison for the unfamiliar territory.
As WDJ embarks on its third year, women dentists continue to navigate the uncharted profession. Our knowledge, skill, and innate patient care remain our flagship, yet so many questions linger. This needs to be the year that women dentists map more of “who” we are and “what” we do and “how” we practice. Understand it is our time for challenge and discovery within our corps.
Cartography Lessons
My challenge as WDJ editor is threefold to our readers this year.
Start a journal. Begin to chronicle and document who you talk to, what you talk about, future ideas, plans, and dreams. In time, this living map will not only help to guide you, but reinforce your direction.
Develop the leader within and maintain your confidence. Seek out those continuing education programs that nurture your skill and passion. Become a perpetual reader. Stay on a positive learning course.
Join a network of other women dentists (AAWD), mentor, or create a team that is second to none! Seek out positive people who build you up, not tear or wear you down. Empower the people around you so that trust, consideration, and respect are an understood.
This issue honors our first Xtreme Practice Makeover winner, Dr. Kristy Vetter, for her courage to display and share her upcoming practice improvement journey.
What a time for the journey!
Dr. Trost is the managing editor of Woman Dentist Journal. She can be contacted by email at [email protected].
