“By Changing Nothing, Nothing Changes.”

Change is hard – some days it feels like fate is not satisfied with any stable situation that makes us comfortable and secure. Sure, no one can dispute the serenity of “business as usual” in the midst of ever-changing world issues, politics, and everyday craziness. Instead of losing sleep or stomach lining over change, let’s consider the positive aspects of being open to expanding our comfort zones, living in the moment, and having a mindset of “faith over fear.” As the title quote from Tony Robbins suggests, you have to build up some momentum in order to actually get somewhere. Let’s hear from some successful and inspirational people on how change can bring positive movement to our lives.

Neurologist and psychologist Viktor E. Frankl said, “When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.” Some people just need a bigger push to get moving. Taking the easy route and sticking with “the familiar” is only possible until the stress of the known outweighs the fear of the unknown. So, sticking with only the activities or mindsets that are within your safety zone, will eventually leave you watching others who have the ambition and confidence to move forward. You don’t want to look around in a few years and see your friends and peers busy and fulfilled with new possibilities that can change your community or your world. There is a lot of competition out there, and being a pioneer or game changer may be a challenge at first, but will head off the future frustration of a stagnating life.

Actress Sarah Parish noted, “Living with fear stops us from taking risks, and if you don’t go out on the branch, you’re never going to get the best fruit.” Overcoming fear of making the wrong decision or failing can feel daunting. But, there are a lot of ways to build your confidence, such as talking to friends, mentors, experts, attending conferences, reading MedMark publications, and listening to those who bring you inspiration. There will be learning curves and maybe even some speed bumps, but most times, innovation will lead to new and exciting ways to grow.

Our fall issue is filled with innovation and information to create productive change in your practices. In our Cover Story, Dr. Erin Elliott talks about dental sleep medicine and some of the technologies that allow her to screen patients properly, treatment plan effectively, and enhance patient outcomes. Our CE, by Dr. Steve Carstensen and Pat Mc Bride, offers ways the primary care dentist can take the time to know the unique patients in their chair and apply that knowledge to facilitate improved whole-health choices. Trending topics in medicine are a focus in this issue – articles cover circadian rhythms, preventing jet lag, raising awareness of the value of mandibular advancement therapy, and how a physical therapist and sleep dentist dynamic duo co-treated a patient’s scoliosis.

World famous performer Robin Williams said, “No matter what people tell you, words and ideas can change the world.” Don’t leave your success to chance. Change your ideas into action. Innovation will create a happier you, family, and work life. When you embrace change, the benefits will spread throughout your world! To your best success.