Financial Planning for the Medical Millennial: Navigating Success and Growth for Young Optometric Practice Owners

Balancing student loan debt, managing cash flow, daily business operations… As a young optometric practice owner, planning for the future can be overwhelming. 

As you navigate the exciting world of running your own practice, it’s important to equip yourself with the knowledge and strategies that will set you up for long-term success. 

In this article, we will explore key areas that are crucial for young practice owners, including setting goals, asking the right questions, avoiding common mistakes, and defining success.

Let’s dive in!

Set your vision, then set your goals

Setting clear goals is essential for personal and professional growth. Start by envisioning your ideal future as an optometrist. What do you want to achieve? Do you aspire to own your own practice, specialize in a particular area, or contribute to research and education? 

Once you have a vision, break it down into smaller, achievable goals. 

These goals can include building a strong patient base, improving clinical skills, or saving for a practice acquisition. Regularly review and adjust your goals to stay on track and motivated.

Goals should be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

Ask the right questions 

As a young practice owner, you need to ask the right questions to gain clarity and make informed decisions. So what are the right questions?

Here are a few to consider:

• How do you define success? Success means different things to different people, and it’s worth taking the time to reflect on your own definition. Is it financial stability, patient satisfaction, or making a positive impact in your community?
  
• What are your strengths and weaknesses? Understanding your strengths allows you to leverage them for growth, while acknowledging weaknesses helps you identify areas for improvement or seek assistance from advisors or mentors.
  
• How can you differentiate your practice? In a competitive industry, finding your unique selling proposition is vital. Consider what sets your practice apart and how you can communicate that to your target audience.
  

Common mistakes made by young practice owners 

Learning from the experiences of others can save you from making costly mistakes. 

Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overextending financially: It’s tempting to invest heavily in the latest equipment or luxurious office space, but it’s important to strike a balance between quality and affordability. Carefully evaluate your financial capabilities and prioritize investments that will yield the greatest return.
  
• Neglecting marketing and patient acquisition: Building a strong patient base requires effective marketing strategies. Allocate time and resources to develop a comprehensive marketing plan that includes online presence, community engagement, and patient referrals.
  
• Failing to delegate and seek advice: Many young practice owners try to do everything themselves, leading to burnout and inefficiency. Delegate tasks to capable staff members and consider seeking advice from experienced professionals or mentors who can provide valuable insights.
  

When to consult a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™?

Early in your career, some financial decisions might not significantly impact your future.

The right time to start a conversation with a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ is when you reach a point where you’re no longer comfortable making financial decisions on your own, and basing them on your own research doesn’t cut it anymore. 

For example, if I have something wrong with my eye, I might be able to spend hours and hours on Google and find a solution for a low-level problem. 

But obviously, relying solely on internet information can have consequences — especially as the stakes get higher. 

After this point, there’s definitely value in collaborating with CFP® Professionals who act as collaborators and affirmers, collectively crafting informed decisions. 

This way, you proactively anticipate future financial needs and challenges, moving from reactive to proactive planning. 

Betting on yourself 

When you decide to become a practice owner, you are essentially betting on your own abilities, skills, and vision. 

It takes courage and confidence to take risks, make investments, and pursue your goals. 

By believing in yourself and your abilities, you can overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and ultimately achieve long-term success.

Invest in your skills, knowledge, and personal growth. Continuously seek opportunities for professional development, attend conferences, and engage in networking. 

Embrace challenges and view setbacks as learning experiences. By betting on yourself and continuously improving, you can achieve your goals and create a practice that reflects your vision.

One last thing. If you’re a young practice owner and are looking to get a huge head start on planning for your own success, I strongly recommend you check out The 20/20 Money Membership and get on the VIP Waitlist. Click here to check it out.