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IDOC actively shares industry-focused articles, blog posts, podcasts, videos and other thought leadership with our members and other optometric practitioners. Below, you will find links to our growing library of educational materials and multi-media assets written and created by IDOC's team of seasoned industry experts.
Dr. Steve Vargo | 3/23/2016
3 THINGS SUCCESSFUL INDEPENDENT OPTOMETRISTS HAVE IN COMMON

While there is more than one way to achieve success, there are a few common traits that successful independent optometry practice owners have in common.

They refuse to accept the status quo.  While others remain stagnant, ignore trends, and complain about the economy – successful independent optometrists make things happen.  They are constantly scanning the marketplace and economic environment to identify opportunities.  They are always looking for new and innovative ways to add value to their optometry practice.

They take risks.  Most successful independent optometry practice owners can rattle off a long list of failures.  However, from those failures they learned how to make better choices and eventually succeed.  The alternative is playing it safe – which is actually the riskiest decision you can make.  Success in business is rarely possible without taking some calculated risks.  Always playing it safe will almost guarantee that you will fall short of reaching your potential.

They are life-long learners.  For successful independent optometry practice owners, learning does not end at graduation.  They understand that market trends change quickly.  They are constantly learning new things and having new experiences, such as attending optometry conferences.  This bank of knowledge and experience allows them to adjust and persevere to changes in the marketplace.  It’s more about the journey than the end result.

A difficult realization for many OD practice owners is that being a great optometrist does not guarantee success as a business owner. Owning an optometry practice requires you to wear two hats – clinician and CEO. These are two separate roles, yet dependent on each other for success. If you’re not successful on the business side, this will limit your ability to reinvest back into the practice (technology, staff training, etc.) and provide the highest level of patient care.  Re-read the list above. Are you giving adequate attention to the business of eye care?

Dr. Steve Vargo
Practice Management Consultant
Steve Vargo, OD, MBA is a 1998 graduate of Illinois College of Optometry. After working in a clinical optometric practice for several years, Dr. Vargo pursued his passion for practice management by earning his Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from the University of Phoenix in 2008. A published author and speaker with 15 years of clinical experience, he serves as IDOC’s Optometric Practice Management Consultant and advises members in all areas of practice management and optometric office operations. Steve and his wife Melanie have two sons, Lucas and Ryan. In his spare time, he enjoys running, cycling, sports and music. A native Chicagoan, he is an avid fan of the Cubs, live music and deep-dish pizza.
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