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Unlocking Focus

By: Melissa Barlock

How RAS Can Shape Your Goals

Last week, I attended an inspiring event where the keynote speaker delivered a fascinating talk on the Reticular Activating System (RAS)—a small but powerful network of neurons in our brainstem. What struck me most was how the RAS, often referred to as the brain's "filtering system," plays a pivotal role in focusing on the things we truly want in life.

Here’s a breakdown of what I learned and how you can apply it to your everyday life.

What is the RAS?

The Reticular Activating System acts as a gatekeeper for the information your brain processes. Every day, we're bombarded with millions of sensory inputs—sounds, sights, smells, and more. If our brains processed all this data equally, we’d be overwhelmed. Instead, the RAS filters what we pay attention to based on what it deems most important.

Have you ever noticed how, after deciding to buy a specific car, you suddenly see that exact model everywhere? That’s your RAS in action. Once your brain identifies something as significant, it starts bringing similar things into focus.

How the RAS Shapes Our Goals

One of the most profound lessons I took away was this: "What you focus on expands." The RAS doesn’t distinguish between positive or negative inputs; it simply amplifies what you repeatedly think about. If you constantly dwell on fears, insecurities, or obstacles, your RAS will highlight more of the same. Conversely, focusing on goals, solutions, and opportunities will prime your brain to notice and act on them.

For example, if you’re working toward a promotion, setting clear intentions and visualizing success can prompt your RAS to notice relevant opportunities, conversations, or tasks that align with that goal.

Practical Ways to Leverage Your RAS

If you want to make the RAS work in your favour, here are some actionable steps you can take:

1. Set Clear Intentions

The RAS thrives on specificity. Vague goals like "I want to be successful" don’t give your brain a clear focus. Instead, define exactly what success looks like to you—whether it’s earning a specific income, landing a dream job, or mastering a skill. By setting clear intentions, you’re programming your brain to filter out distractions and prioritize what truly matters.

2. Visualize Daily

Take a few minutes each day to visualize your goals as if they’ve already happened. Imagine the sights, sounds, and emotions associated with achieving them. This practice primes your brain to align with your desired outcomes and helps you stay focused on the actions that will move you closer to your goals.

3. Use Positive Affirmations

Words have the power to shape your beliefs and actions. Repeating affirmations like "I am confident and capable" or "Opportunities flow to me effortlessly" can help rewire your brain to focus on empowering thoughts. Over time, these affirmations become part of your internal narrative, guiding you toward positive outcomes.

4. Write It Down

Journaling your goals, intentions, and daily wins is a simple yet powerful way to reinforce your focus. Writing things down signals to your RAS, “This matters to me.” It increases the likelihood of spotting relevant opportunities and staying motivated to take consistent action.

5. Surround Yourself with Positivity

The RAS is influenced by what you consume—whether it’s the people you spend time with, the media you engage with, or the environments you’re in. Surround yourself with individuals and inputs that align with your goals and values. Positive influences can help you stay focused and motivated, while negative ones can derail your progress.

The Power of Focus in Everyday Life

The RAS operates in every aspect of your day-to-day life, even in mundane scenarios. For example, if you decide to have a “bad day,” your RAS will bring every inconvenience and mishap to your attention, reinforcing that belief. However, if you consciously choose to look for things to be grateful for, your RAS will shift its focus to highlight moments of joy and connection instead. This small shift in mindset can make a huge difference in how you experience life.

My Biggest Takeaway

After reflecting on what I learned, I realized how often we let our focus drift to things we don’t want, rather than channeling it toward what we do want. It’s empowering to know that we have more control over our focus than we realize. The key lies in being intentional about where we direct our energy and attention.


The RAS is a powerful reminder that our brains are wired to serve us, but it’s up to us to give them the right instructions. By aligning our focus with our goals, we can unlock the potential to turn our dreams into reality.

So, what’s one goal you want to focus on today? Set your intention, and let your RAS do the rest.




Enspire Dental Opportunities is looking forward to working with you.



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The Power of Networking in the Dental Industry: Why Connections Matter at Every Stage of Your Career

By Melissa Calway • February 11, 2025
In the ever-changing dental industry, knowledge and expertise are key, but the professional relationships you foster can be just as valuable. Whether you're just starting your career or have been in the industry for decades, networking plays a key role in professional growth, career advancement, and staying ahead of industry trends. Why Networking Matters in Dentistry 1. Unlocking Career Opportunities For dental professionals—whether you’re a new graduate, an experienced clinician, or a practice manager—your network can open doors to new opportunities. Many jobs, especially in dentistry, are filled through word-of-mouth referrals and professional connections rather than public job postings. Building relationships within the industry can help you learn about temp roles, permanent positions, and potential career moves before they even hit the market. 2. Staying Updated on Industry Trends The dental field is constantly evolving with new technologies, materials, and best practices. Networking with other professionals—whether through study clubs, conferences, or online communities—ensures you stay informed about the latest advancements and industry changes. This is particularly valuable for those in clinical roles who want to remain competitive and offer the best care to their patients. 3. Learning from Peers and Mentors One of the greatest benefits of networking is the ability to learn from those who have walked the path before you. New graduates can gain insights from experienced dentists, hygienists, and assistants, while seasoned professionals can stay energized by exchanging ideas with fresh talent. Whether you need advice on career decisions, patient management, or business strategies, having a strong professional network gives you access to a wealth of knowledge and support. 4. Strengthening Your Reputation and Personal Brand In a people-driven industry like dentistry, reputation is everything. The more you engage with other professionals, the more you establish yourself as a trusted and respected member of the community. This can lead to referrals, collaborations, and even leadership opportunities within the profession. 5. Finding the Right Staff or Team For dental practice owners and managers, networking is key to building a strong, reliable team. Whether you need a temporary hygienist to cover a last-minute shift or a long-term associate to help grow your practice, having a network of trusted professionals makes hiring faster and easier. The Easiest Way to Network in Dentistry? Join the Enspire Dental App! Networking doesn’t have to be time-consuming or complicated. The Enspire Dental App is the fastest-growing community of dental professionals across Canada, connecting job seekers with employers looking for permanent and temporary staff. Whether you’re a dental candidate searching for new opportunities or a practice owner in need of qualified team members, the Enspire Dental App simplifies the process and expands your network instantly. ➡️ Download the Enspire Dental App today and start building connections that will take your career—or your practice—to the next level! app.enspireopportunities.com

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By Melissa Calway • January 13, 2025
In today’s workplace, where change is constant and challenges are complex, traditional leadership skills like technical expertise and decision-making are no longer enough. Emotional intelligence (EI) has emerged as a critical attribute for effective leaders, transforming workplace culture and driving productivity. But what exactly is emotional intelligence, and how can leaders harness its power? What is Emotional Intelligence? Emotional intelligence refers to the ability to recognize, understand, and manage your own emotions, while also being attuned to the emotions of others. Daniel Goleman, a pioneer in the field, outlines five core components of emotional intelligence: Self-awareness : Recognizing and understanding your emotions and their impact on others. Self-regulation : Managing emotions in healthy ways and maintaining control in challenging situations. Motivation : Harnessing emotions to stay focused and achieve goals. Empathy : Understanding and sharing the feelings of others. Social skills : Building and maintaining healthy relationships through effective communication and conflict resolution. Why Emotional Intelligence Matters in Leadership Leaders with high emotional intelligence are better equipped to inspire and engage their teams. Here are some ways EI can transform workplace culture and productivity: 1. Fostering Stronger Connections Empathetic leaders create an environment where employees feel valued and understood. When team members trust that their leader genuinely cares about their well-being, they’re more likely to be engaged and motivated. 2. Enhancing Communication Effective communication is a cornerstone of leadership. Leaders with EI can read non-verbal cues, address misunderstandings, and provide constructive feedback. This clarity and openness reduce miscommunication and build stronger teams. 3. Improving Conflict Resolution Workplace conflicts are inevitable, but emotionally intelligent leaders approach disagreements with empathy and composure. By listening actively and finding common ground, they can resolve disputes in a way that strengthens rather than fractures relationships. 4. Boosting Team Morale and Productivity An emotionally intelligent leader understands what motivates their team and uses this knowledge to foster a positive work environment. A motivated team is a productive team, and employees are more likely to go the extra mile when they feel supported and appreciated. 5. Navigating Change Effectively In times of uncertainty or transition, emotionally intelligent leaders provide stability. By acknowledging their team’s concerns and demonstrating resilience, they inspire confidence and help their organization adapt to change smoothly. How to Develop Emotional Intelligence as a Leader The good news is that emotional intelligence is not fixed—it can be cultivated and enhanced over time. Here are some actionable steps to build your EI: 1. Practice Self-Reflection Take time to reflect on your emotions and how they influence your behaviour. Journaling or seeking feedback from trusted colleagues can provide valuable insights. 2. Develop Active Listening Skills Focus on truly understanding what others are saying, rather than planning your response. This fosters empathy and strengthens relationships. 3. Manage Stress Effectively Learn to regulate your emotions by practicing mindfulness, deep breathing, or other stress-management techniques. Staying calm under pressure sets a positive example for your team. 4. Invest in Empathy Put yourself in your team’s shoes and consider their perspectives. Show understanding and offer support when needed. 5. Seek Feedback and Learn Continuously Regularly seek feedback on your leadership style and be open to constructive criticism. Attend workshops, read books, or take courses on emotional intelligence to further your growth.  Incorporating emotional intelligence into your leadership style is not just a “nice-to-have”—it’s a necessity in today’s workplace. Leaders who prioritize EI create a culture of trust, respect, and collaboration, ultimately driving productivity and long-term success. As you continue on your leadership journey, remember that emotional intelligence is a skill that can always be refined. By prioritizing self-awareness, empathy, and effective communication, you can unlock the full potential of your team and lead with impact.

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Building Trust and Effective Communication with Patients for Dental Hygienists

By Melissa Calway • November 12, 2024
 Effective communication is more than just conveying information—it’s about understanding the patient’s needs, alleviating concerns, and creating an environment where they feel valued and heard. Dental anxiety, for example, is a common challenge, and many patients arrive at the dental office with varying levels of fear or hesitation. How you communicate can set the tone for their entire experience and influence their willingness to return and adhere to recommendations. Building Trust: Key Strategies for Dental Hygienists Active Listening Listening goes beyond hearing words; it’s about truly understanding your patients. Make eye contact, nod, and show genuine interest in what your patient is saying. Ask open-ended questions that invite them to share their concerns or expectations. By giving them your full attention, you demonstrate respect and a commitment to understanding their perspective. Empathy and Compassion Every patient’s experience is unique, and many bring fears, anxieties, or past traumas into the dental chair. Expressing empathy can build an immediate connection. Use phrases like, “I understand that coming to the dentist can be stressful,” or “I’m here to help you feel as comfortable as possible.” A little compassion goes a long way in easing tension. Clear and Simple Explanations Dental terminology can be overwhelming for patients. When discussing procedures, diagnoses, or care plans, use plain language and analogies they can relate to. This ensures they understand what’s happening and why it matters. Providing visual aids or using intraoral cameras to show exactly what you’re describing can further enhance understanding. Involving Patients in Their Care Patients are more likely to follow treatment recommendations if they feel like partners in their care. Take time to explain their options, outline potential outcomes, and empower them to make informed decisions. Encourage questions and ensure they feel confident about their role in maintaining their oral health. Managing Dental Anxiety Anxiety is a major barrier for many patients. Simple measures like offering breaks during longer procedures, using calming techniques (e.g., guided breathing or distraction methods), and creating a welcoming, calming atmosphere can make a world of difference. For more extreme cases, discussing sedation options or other measures might be necessary. Consistency and Professionalism Building trust doesn’t happen overnight—it’s the result of consistent positive experiences. Patients need to know they can rely on you to provide excellent care every time they visit. Being punctual, maintaining a calm demeanour, and keeping your promises (like following up on their concerns) reinforce a sense of trustworthiness. Personalization of Care Take time to know your patients as individuals. Remembering small details about their lives or previous visits shows that you care beyond their teeth. Addressing them by name, inquiring about their family, or recalling their hobbies makes interactions feel personal and welcoming. Educational Engagement: Empowering Patients Education is a powerful tool in promoting oral health. A well-informed patient is more likely to comply with recommendations and take ownership of their care. Consider these methods to enhance patient education: Visual Learning Aids: Use models, charts, and digital tools to demonstrate proper brushing/flossing techniques or the progression of decay. Customized Care Plans: Tailor instructions and educational efforts to each patient’s unique needs, lifestyle, and oral health goals. Ongoing Reinforcement: Every appointment is an opportunity to reinforce previous lessons, offer praise for improvements, and encourage small, manageable changes. Building trust and engaging in effective communication with patients are not “soft skills” to be overlooked—they are the pillars of successful and fulfilling dental hygiene practice. By honing these skills, you transform each patient encounter into a meaningful opportunity for education, comfort, and partnership in health. Dental hygienists, you have the power to create lasting positive experiences. Keep listening, keep caring, and watch as your relationships with patients flourish, leading to healthier smiles and more satisfied visits. After all, building trust leads to better care—and that’s something we can all smile about!
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