VN August 2022

Vetnuus | August 2022 48 I have not stopped thinking about my beautiful student who took her own life last week. This cloud of sadness has been looming over me for days. I’m so sad for her, her family, friends and all who knew her ……what an inspirational light she was! I’ve heard more and more about other veterinarians and horse trainers who have taken their own lives after my post went viral last week. I can’t speak from a veterinarian’s perspective, but I certainly have a word for most other professionals in the horse industry. People who are horrible to you are NOT worth your life. It is only a reflection of their shortcomings, problems, drama, baggage or insecurities. But man, it is so hard to remember that when you’re inconveniently in the position to be the punching bag. I used to be there; I was a horse trainer. People were horrible to me. I was miserable. I wanted to help everyone, so I played the role of the proverbial punching bag for a long time. One client at a time. Honestly, those feelings of misery did not leave me until the last fewmonths. I wanted out desperately. I don’t feel that way for the first time in years anymore. I don’t have those kinds of clients anymore. Here’s why…… The best advice I can give you – stop selling cheap seats. Figuratively and financially. Get rid of those seats in your life and your business. There are seven billion people on earth, and plenty who will see your worth, respect you and learn to love you. Don’t waste a second thought on those who don’t value you! Stop selling cheap seats, and the toxic people will never show their face Stop selling cheap seats; you won’t have to work yourself into the ground. Stop selling cheap seats, and you will attract a different level of clients, friends etc., Stop selling cheap seats, and those not meant for you will get uncomfortable and see themselves out your door. Stop selling cheap seats, and you will enjoy your work and be rewarded. Stop selling cheap seats, and you will enjoy your work because you will be working with YOUR tribe. Raise your standards. Raise your vibration. Raise your prices. The rest will fall into place, I promise you. You are more than enough. Author Unknown. v Life plus 23 without parole Mike Lowry Mike Lowry has been in veterinary practice for "life plus 23" years. In this column, he shares his experiences and opinions . Regulars I Life plus 23 + 23