Becoming a chiropractor was a lifelong goal. A dream fulfilled after many grueling hours of study, time away from friends and family. An internal struggle at times followed by the elation of success. It was during those early days that I learned anatomy, physiology, adjusting techniques and radiology. Those were the times that I came to understand how to properly diagnose and assess a patient, how to deliver the good and bad news and how to help people reach their health goals.
Recently however, I have recognized that my role as a chiropractor is much broader than what I initially perceived. The term ‘doctor’ comes from the Latin for ‘teacher.’ I have become a daily teacher of what it means to truly be in good health. Health is not simply the absence of disease or symptoms, rather it comes from a holistic, multifaceted definition. I take my role as a teacher seriously and while I am aware that my techniques need constant honing, I feel that my students are always listening. I teach from what I read, from what I listen to, from conversations I have and from encounters I enjoy with other humans. I teach from my mistakes and my daily habits. I have become a role model. One not just of good healthy habits, but one of consistency. I have emerged in my career as a person that patients can talk frankly, openly and honestly to, without fear of judgement.
By approaching life with a consistently upbeat outlook, I have learned that people feed off that energy vibration. I have become a business owner, ‘boss’ and colleague to some of the most amazing people. Ones who not only work alongside me, but have become like family members, those who I am lucky to share my life with. I have learned about balance in life and how tenuous this can be. Too busy at the clinic means that other areas suffer emotionally and physically. Not busy enough and I drive myself nuts. I have learned that the most important things and people are right in front of you, and that we needn’t always be searching for more.
Chiropractic has taught me so many life lessons, and I still have decades of learning yet to come.
Take time to learn in life. Let your occupation, your friends, your experiences teach you things. Become a student of living and watch how your appreciation of life improves.
Let me know your thoughts/feedback.
Dr. Mark Guker DC
