The Oscars award the best in acting. The Nobel Prize recognizes the best in a variety of genres---literature, medicine and diplomacy to name a few. Dental staff usually are not invited to glamorous, nationally televised award ceremonies where they can receive a "Golden Tooth" for their achievements in patient care (although with all the new channels that are added to cable, this may be a show you can see in the future!). When you aspire to be the best you can be, you have to measure your performance by the praise of your employer and co-workers. But it's important to know how you are doing on your job. Are you doing the best job you can do?

Most people do not aspire to mediocrity but may not know how to improve their skills. With a positive attitude, hard work and perseverance, you can reach heights you did not think were possible. Create an exciting career for yourself that is fulfilling. Refuse to settle for mediocrity.

Knowledge is power and with knowledge, you can provide better service to your patients. How embarrassed would you be if a patient brings in a magazine article about a new cosmetic procedure that you know nothing about? Stay on top of the latest trends not only with continuing education, but also by reading the latest trade magazines and online publications. Patients are likely to go to another dentist if they feel the staff is not knowledgeable about new procedures and trends in the field. Show the patients that you know more than Dr. Smith's dental assistant down the street.

Let's face it. Some days just stink. But if you are going to rise above the crowd and be the best you can be, learn how to overcome these obstacles. If you are having a bad day, your colleagues probably are, too. Be the one who finds the humor in the crisis. Laughter is a great way to relieve tension and stress, but so is ice cream! Offer to run to the closest fast food restaurant for a sweet treat. Be the one who helps alleviate the stress and your co-workers will see you as a leader.

Be interested in what is happening in your office. If a co-worker is having trouble with a task, offer to sit down and brainstorm with them for a solution. Suggest new techniques or procedures. Speak up at staff meetings with your ideas.

Help your office attract new patients without spending a lot of money on advertising. Offer to chair charity events. Your office will be seen as a partner in the community and you will again show your leadership skills. Have the staff wear matching T-shirts with the office name on them at the event.

Then you are the best you can be, your employer and co-workers will notice. This can lead to promotions and raises. You will feel more confident and increase your job satisfaction.