When I reflect on the success I have had, I think of the acrostic THINK BIG from the book, “Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story,” by Dr. Ben Carson*: I’ve read this book cover to cover many times, and the acrostic so encouraged and inspired me, that I kept it where I could read it daily. For the complete acrostic, see bit.ly/thinkbigcarson.

The “I’s” have it

Having heard Dr. Carson speak in person, I’m reminded of his emphasis on continuous learning. In fact, the first “I” in THINK BIG stands for “Insight.” Of this “I,” Dr. Carson writes, “Listen and learn from the people who have already been where you want to go. Benefit from their mistakes instead of repeating them.”

The second “I” stands for in-depth learning. “In-depth learners find that the acquired knowledge becomes a part of them. They understand more about themselves and their world. They keep building on prior understanding by piling on new information,” writes Dr. Carson.

These two “I’s” resonate with me because I love learning and attending educational events. (Yes, I was one of those students who loved everything about learning, other than the tests, of course.) Listening to speakers in person, I am often inspired by their stories. I better remember the lessons they share because, personally, I become more engaged in the conversation when in a room with my colleagues.

The meeting connection

Recently, I thought of the last educational event I attended: the 2023 Optometric Management Symposium (OMS).** I love that the event fosters learning in a peaceful, family atmosphere. But what made me think of OMS was a Facebook post by an attendee who wrote that he made a timely referral that saved a young person’s life, all because of a session he attended at OMS.

My associate doctor had a similar experience just two days after returning from OMS, where she made a speedy referral and coordinated a patient’s trip to the ER that saved his life. In both instances, these doctors demonstrated their “insight” and “in-depth learning” — the “I’s” in THINK BIG.

While I’m confident in stating most of us share this love of learning, I know there is great debate about virtual and live education. I urge you to continue to consider attending both.

If you find it difficult to travel to a live event, try combining it with a destination you are eager to visit or one where you would like to bring the family. Or, attend an event where you can hear one of your favorite speakers. Regardless of the venue, stay engaged and reap the benefits. 

A final word for speakers

To my fellow speakers, continue to engage your audience in creative ways, for example, by telling stories from your experience that make the learning personal. Share your mistakes, wins, doubts, and encouragement, so the rest of us continue to learn from you, grow to become better doctors, and continue to THINK BIG. OM

* You may not be of the same political bend or religious bend as Dr. Carson, yet everyone should be able to appreciate his accomplishments as a pioneer in neurosurgery, best-selling author, and 2008 Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient, to name a few.

** Disclosure: I help plan the speaking schedule and help choose the speakers for the Optometric Management Symposium.

Email: drapriljasper@gmail.com

Twitter: @DrAprilJasper

Facebook: @OptometricManagement

DR. JASPER practices in West Palm Beach, Fla. She is an American Academy of Optometry fellow and is chief optometric editor of Optometric Management. Email her at april.jasper@pentavisionmedia.com.