Private Practice Startup Podcast Summary Episode 364: Why Having Fun is the Secret to Private Practice Success
Release Date: November 2, 2024
Hosts: Dr. Kate Campbell & Caitlin Mew
Guest: Jane Carter from Asheville, North Carolina

Introduction

In Episode 364 of the Private Practice Startup Podcast, hosts Dr. Kate Campbell and Caitlin Mew delve into the pivotal role that fun plays in building and sustaining a successful private practice. With the special guest, Jane Carter—a therapist-turned-business coach—they explore how integrating enjoyment into daily operations not only enhances personal fulfillment but also drives business success.

Guest Introduction: Jane Carter

Jane Carter, joining from Asheville, North Carolina, brings a wealth of experience as a therapist and business coach for solopreneurs. She specializes in helping therapists overcome personal barriers, increase their income, and infuse more fun into their practices. Jane's vibrant personality and passion for aligning business with personal values make her an ideal guest for this discussion.

Notable Quote:
"I got into this profession because I wanted to have the freedom and flexibility to be able to have fun, be more present for my family and kids..."
— Jane Carter [02:29]

The Importance of Fun in Private Practice

Jane and the hosts emphasize that fun is not merely a perk but a foundational element for a thriving private practice. Dr. Kate Campbell shares insights into how fun contributes to a soulful and aligned business, moving away from the traditional "shoulds" that often plague therapists, such as:

• "This is the practice I should have."
• "This is the office I should have."

Instead, they advocate for following one's passion and uniqueness, which naturally integrates fun into the business model.

Notable Quote:
"Fun isn't just a perk. It really is the source of an aligned, thriving business."
— Dr. Kate Campbell [31:21]

Real-World Examples and Anecdotes

To illustrate the concept, Dr. Campbell shares a compelling story about a client who envisioned a unique practice environment:

Example:
A therapist initially settled for a conventional office space but, encouraged to follow her true desires, sought out an office on a farm. This resulted in a space surrounded by nature and animals like baby goats and horses, perfectly reflecting her playful personality and passions. This uniqueness not only made her practice more enjoyable but also simplified her marketing efforts.

Notable Quote:
"I have a client right now... she found an office on a farm. It's super cool. There's, like, babbling brooks, there's baby goats, horses, and there's this really nice office in the barn."
— Dr. Kate Campbell [09:19]

Research and Insights on Fun and Productivity

The discussion references research and literature supporting the idea that joy and fun enhance productivity. Dr. Campbell cites John Acuff’s book, "Finish," highlighting that individuals who make goal attainment fun are more likely to achieve their objectives.

Notable Quote:
"Joy is a real productivity hack."
— Jane Carter [10:27]

Practical Tips for Integrating Fun into Practice

The hosts and Jane offer actionable strategies to incorporate fun into private practice:

1. Set Fun Goals:

   • Beyond business objectives, include activities that bring joy.
   • Example: Dr. Campbell suggests fun activities like dancing around the office to energize the work environment.

2. Celebrate Wins:

   • Regularly acknowledge and celebrate achievements, no matter how small.
   • Shifting from self-judgment to curiosity can unlock creative solutions and reduce burnout.

3. Design Life Around Desired Fun:

   • Build the business around personal life goals and fun activities.
   • Example: A client prioritized kayaking with her son, structuring her schedule to ensure this fun time was protected.

4. Take Intentional Breaks:

   • Fully commit to breaks without multitasking.
   • Example: Caitlin shares her practice of taking time to watch TV or grab a snack to recharge and return to work more effectively.

Notable Quote:
"Fun goals win again. It doesn't have to be a suffer fest to build a practice."
— Jane Carter [11:44]

Personal Reflections and Challenges

Both hosts reflect on their personal struggles with maintaining fun amidst the demands of private practice. They acknowledge the difficulty of balancing hard work with enjoyable activities but stress the importance of intentionality in fostering a fun environment.

Notable Quote:
"I have to be dead serious about incorporating fun. So, like, am I building in practices? Am I building in regular celebrating of what I have gotten done?"
— Dr. Kate Campbell [13:58]

Benefits of a Fun and Aligned Practice

Integrating fun leads to a more present and whole therapist, enhancing their ability to serve clients effectively. Dr. Campbell shares how engaging in fun activities like puzzles or wilderness trips contributes to personal growth, creativity, and overall well-being.

Notable Quote:
"Fun is just one of those little doorways into your soul."
— Jane Carter [31:37]

Takeaways and Conclusions

The episode concludes with powerful takeaways emphasizing that fun is integral to not only personal satisfaction but also the success and sustainability of a private practice. The hosts encourage listeners to:

• Incorporate small moments of fun daily.
• Align business activities with personal values and passions.
• Celebrate achievements to foster a positive and productive environment.

Actionable Homework:
"Think of something fun today and do it. It can be a little activity like putting on a great song and dancing around the office."
— Dr. Kate Campbell [30:45]

Final Thoughts

Jane Carter expresses profound gratitude for the discussion, highlighting how the conversation reaffirmed her reasons for entering entrepreneurship and private practice. The hosts reinforce the message that embracing fun is essential for a fulfilling and successful practice.

Notable Quote:
"Fun isn't just a perk. It really is the source of an aligned, thriving business."
— Dr. Kate Campbell [31:21]

Resources and Further Information

Listeners are encouraged to visit PrivatePracticeStartup.com for additional resources, including Jane Carter's freebie, "5 Ways to Have More Fun Building Your Dream Business." This resource offers deeper insights into integrating fun into private practice.

End of Summary