CYNTHIA STAMATION
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Scenario 1: Imagine you are taking a road trip and at the end of the trip, you are asked how many red cars you saw along the way. Asked after the fact, most people would answer that they don’t know, or they might make a random guess.
Scenario 2: Suppose that instead of being asked after the fact, you were told in advance that you would be asked the question at the end of your trip. Also suppose that for every red car that you saw, you would be rewarded with $1000. Every time you saw a red car, you would celebrate as your tally increased!
The basis of red car theory is revealed in the difference between these two scenarios. Even though the question is the same in both cases, the context and motivation (and therefore your behavior) are very different.
In the first scenario, your behavior could best be described as unawareness. You’re not looking for or keeping track of red cars at all. In the second scenario, knowing in advance means that you at least have awareness during the journey. And then the $1000 incentive per red car further amplifies your awareness into deliberate attention.
Engaging with your practice opportunities
Red car theory is a metaphor for opportunities, which are all around us every day. It applies to anything in your life or practice in which you have a goal, objective, desired result, or potential benefit. The difference between people who succeed with goals and objectives versus those who do not usually begins with awareness and attention.
Awareness is the first step to seeing the opportunities around you to make progress. That means first understanding your priorities and vision. There are many avenues for growth and success. Financial success is one avenue, but certainly not the only one. You can also consider working less, feeling more fulfilled, enjoying your practice more, clinical excellence, professional recognition, referrer loyalty, team harmony and productivity, family goals, or general lifestyle.
It is only by knowing what you should focus on that you begin to be aware of the opportunities in that area. But awareness alone isn’t enough. You need to pay attention so you can take action. In the red car theory, the financial incentive represents motivation. With respect to your own goals and objectives, you need to motivate yourself by amplifying the value you attach to your vision. What does it mean to you? What would be the impact on your life?
Discovery and innovation
When you have awareness and attention, you start to perceive your world differently and start identifying “red car opportunities” better. Rather than feeling frustrated like your stuck in traffic without making progress, you discover openings and ways to innovate around roadblocks.
The solutions can come from many sources, from colleagues, coaches, team members, and even outside influences. More importantly, you start training yourself to think about opportunities from a place of abundance. Evolving to the next level of personal, practice, family and lifestyle success becomes your natural momentum.