Dear Reader

These are crazy times. All one has to do to realize this is to tune the television or radio to a news program or look at the front page of the local newspaper. Times are difficult and most of us are feeling the pinch, whether it is at the gas pump, the grocery story, or in our businesses.
Michael Bublé kicked-off his latest concert tour in October, and I was fortunate enough to see him when he stopped in Ft. Worth, Texas. The show was incredible and there were three things that really stood out for me. At the beginning of his show he thanked the audience and spoke about how honored he was for the opportunity to connect and be awake and aware with them for the length of the show. Secondly, he expressed his appreciation again at the end of the show referencing the stock market, gas prices, and friends he knew who were canceling their tours; impressing upon the audience that he was truly grateful that they would spend their hard-earned money to come and see him. Both of these monologues were seemingly genuine by themselves. However, what really made me believe them was the enthusiasm and spirit with which he performed. He really enjoyed every moment on stage and that joy was undoubtedly transferred to the audience. I’ve been to many concerts, all of which were good, none of which I left feeling so enthused or satisfied.
Everyone is looking for places to cut back, but recognizing that your clients are like the people in the audience should help you. By that I mean, genuinely express your appreciation for their business and during the hour you are with them give them your full attention. So that when they leave not only will they look and feel better, but they won’t be rethinking the money they just spent with you. It is easy to forget, but they don’t call it the Golden Rule for nothing – treat others as you want to be treated. You wouldn’t want your therapist texting, thinking about their next client, or what they were going to eat for lunch/dinner; so give your client the same courtesy and respect. Even if they aren’t sure what it was, they will certainly be able to feel the difference.
You must be your priority and it is evermore important that you take care of yourself Body, Mind, and Soul. Trade services with a co-worker after hours, be mindful of your posture while performing services, and get adequate exercise to keep your body in prime condition. Read your trade journals to stay current, take a class to learn a new technique or just to refresh and enhance the knowledge you already possess. Schedule time each morning, between appointments, and at the end of the day so that you have an opportunity to balance and ground yourself before beginning again. You can’t give something you don’t possess, so if you aren’t giving anything to yourself, what can you offer your family, friends, and clients?
With all that being said, thank you! It has been a pleasure working with DERMASCOPE for over 10 years. And I am even more thrilled that I have been blessed with the opportunity to nurture the future of the magazine and AIA. Your continued support is genuinely appreciated.

Best,

Saundra