NEW SCHEDULING TIPS FOR PRIVATE PRACTICE IN CANADA | EP 162
The one thing I now know is that “The only constant in life is change!” I used to try to find the perfect scheduling system and the perfect way to manage my working hours. However, usually, as soon as I thought I found it, something in life would change, and the “perfect” schedule would no longer be suitable. At first, I thought I just had to keep pushing to find the “right” way to manage my time, but what I have been learning is that I can incorporate more flexibility into my working schedule and consider myself an important factor too.
In this episode, I’ll share with you my lived experience through the ordeal of scheduling that many therapists are familiar with, including my newfound knowledge, tips, and what I have decided to do going forward. It may be helpful to you as well!
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In This Episode
- The situation often changes
- Practicing being flexible and fluid
- What I am doing these days
The situation often changes
One of the things I came to learn about myself through private practice is that I used to think there was a perfect way of living. That somehow I could figure out the perfect system, and use it forever! However, that hasn’t turned out how I had imagined it would.
‘When I started private practice, I thought that there was this perfect way to schedule my work life, and that once I found this perfect schedule, I would be set for the rest of my career! That I’d be stress-free, happy, and satisfied … I’ve tried to find a permanent way to schedule my private practice time, but every time I try to find it … Things change!’ – Jules Smith
Once I seem to find the perfect system, life changes! My work or personal commitments change, my energy levels change, and the situation simply becomes different and unsuitable for the system I had thought was perfect.
Practicing being flexible and fluid
‘It has become so clear to me that the quote, “The only constant in life is change”, is so true! So this past year, as I have realised that things are always going to be changing and that I should be more fluid with my schedule, I’ve started to play around with it.’ – Jules Smith
Over this past year, I have changed, too. I decided to try incorporating the way I felt more into the work that I was doing instead of allowing the schedule to rule my days, and leave no room for my needs as they changed.
If you want the backstories, you can listen to episode 77 where I talk about trying a 50/50 work-week, and then it’s update at episode 97!
What I am doing these days
What has been working for me a lot of the time is still following a loose 50/50 work week, where I work Monday through Wednesday, and half of Thursday.
I’ve been doing this for a couple of years now, and I really enjoy this routine and type of scheduling system, where I complete admin in the morning, have lunch, work out in the afternoon, and then see clients in the evening.
‘What I like is that, on Thursday mornings, I have a secret session, just in case my schedule is full for the week … After admin in the morning, I end my day there, and then I have the rest of Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday to unwind, decompress, and hang out with friends.’ – Jules Smith
However, even though I enjoy this system, I have been incorporating more flexibility into it, especially if I have some creative energy that I want to use in the business. As long as I can pay the bills, I have begun to give myself more freedom, and it has made a wonderful difference!
‘What I thought would be one of the hardest things was to find that perfect schedule, but what I’m realizing now in private practice is that one of the hardest things is to get out of that system where everything is so rigid.’ – Jules Smith
Connect With Me
Resources Mentioned and Useful Links:
Ep 161: Suki O’Huallachain: Growing a Successful Private Practice in Canada | EP 161
Learn more about the tools and deals that I love and use for my Canadian private practice
Sign up for my free e-course on How to Start an Online Canadian Private Practice
Jane App (use code FEARLESS for one month free)
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About Jules Smith
Jules Smith, MEd, RCT, CCC is a registered Counselling Therapist who owns a group private practice in Halifax, Nova Scotia. They are also the owner of Fearless Practice Consulting and hosts the Fearless Practice podcast. Through the Fearless Practice podcast, they provide invaluable insights and practical advice on starting and growing a successful Canadian private practice.
Jules also has written articles for the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy association. You can learn more at www.ccpa-accp.ca/blog/.
