Stubbornness. We all encounter it, both in ourselves and others. But what’s stubborn mean exactly, and how does it manifest in a professional setting, particularly in a field as demanding and evolving as veterinary medicine? The editors at Veterinary Economics posed this very question, perhaps with a wry glance in my direction, asking me to delve into the world of what they termed “Stubborn Old Cusses” (SOCs). Was it my reputation for, shall we say, firm opinions? Or maybe just my years in the trenches of veterinary practice?
Whatever the reason, it prompted me to consider the nature of stubbornness, especially within our profession. Is it simply about being set in your ways, or is there more to it? And crucially, how does this trait impact our practices, our colleagues, and even ourselves?
To truly understand what’s stubborn mean, a quick dictionary dive is in order. “Stubborn,” often used interchangeably with “obstinate” and “cantankerous,” is defined as being unyieldingly persistent in adhering to one’s purpose, opinion, or course of action in spite of reason, arguments, or persuasion. Another definition highlights “mean-spirited disagreeable contrariness.” These definitions paint a picture that might resonate, perhaps uncomfortably, with some of us in veterinary practice.
While we pride ourselves on being a collegial profession, dedicated to animal welfare, it’s worth examining if certain stubborn tendencies might be lurking beneath the surface. My aim here isn’t to point fingers, but rather to offer a lighthearted yet insightful look at these traits, helping us identify them in ourselves and those around us – and perhaps even learn to navigate them more effectively.
Recognizing the Traits of Stubbornness in Veterinary Professionals
So, how does this “cussedness,” this stubbornness, actually play out in the daily life of a veterinary practice? Here are a few telltale signs, often exhibited by the “Stubborn Old Cusses” we might encounter (or recognize within ourselves):
“If I Needed to Know It, I Already Would”: Resisting Continuing Education
A hallmark of stubbornness in any field is resistance to new information and learning. In veterinary medicine, this can manifest as a dismissal of continuing education (CE). The SOC believes that their existing knowledge base is sufficient and views CE as a waste of valuable time. They cling to outdated practices, resisting any suggestion to update protocols that have “always worked fine.”
While experience is invaluable, in a rapidly advancing field like veterinary medicine, clinging rigidly to the past can be detrimental. Experience without a willingness to adapt and learn becomes stagnant and potentially harmful. Continuing education isn’t about implying a doctor is “bad,” but about embracing progress and offering the best possible care. It’s about being open to new ideas and recognizing that the thrill of solving a challenging case with updated knowledge far outweighs the comfort of outdated routines. As the saying goes, you can have twenty years of experience, or one year repeated twenty times. The key is to ensure it’s the former.
“Those Kids with Their Newfangled Ideas”: Dismissing Younger Generations
Another common symptom of stubbornness is a disdain for new generations entering the profession. The SOC often criticizes younger veterinarians for being “lazy,” “entitled,” or too focused on work-life balance. They might lament perceived differences in work ethic or priorities, failing to recognize the positive changes these new professionals bring.
Two veterinarians discussing a case, possibly a senior and junior vet
However, this generational perspective often overlooks the valuable contributions of younger vets. They are often at the forefront of adopting new technologies, embracing evolving client expectations, and, importantly, championing a healthier work-life balance within the demanding veterinary field. They are driving the profession forward, demonstrating that it’s possible to provide high-quality care while maintaining personal well-being. Instead of criticizing, perhaps we “old cusses” should be thanking the younger generation for teaching us about balance and sustainability in veterinary practice.
“This Med Has Worked Fine for Years!”: Reluctance to Adopt New Treatments
Stubbornness can also manifest as a resistance to adopting new medications and treatment protocols. The SOC might be nostalgic for older, familiar treatments, hesitant to embrace advancements in pharmacology and therapeutics. They might dismiss new drugs or technologies, clinging to what they know, even if better options exist.
While familiarity and experience are valuable, relying solely on outdated methods can limit the quality of care offered. Veterinary medicine is constantly evolving, with new and improved treatments becoming available. Embracing these advancements, whether it’s transdermal gels, novel diagnostic tests, or updated antibiotic protocols, is crucial for providing optimal patient care. For practice owners, a simple antidote to this stubbornness is to listen to and learn from enthusiastic new graduates who are up-to-date on the latest advancements.
“Proud to Work 23.5 Hours a Day”: Rejecting Work-Life Balance
A dedication to hard work is admirable, but stubbornness can twist this into an unhealthy obsession with long hours and a rejection of work-life balance. The SOC often prides themselves on working excessively long hours, considering it a badge of honor and dismissing modern time-management principles. They might be on call constantly, perpetuating a cycle of overwork and burnout.
However, the veterinary profession is increasingly recognizing the importance of well-being and sustainability. It’s now understood that a thriving practice and a good income are achievable within reasonable working hours. Long, undisciplined hours are not necessary and can be detrimental to both personal health and practice efficiency. Embracing a balanced lifestyle, with time for both work and personal life, is not a sign of weakness but a pathway to a more sustainable and fulfilling career.
“Oh, Just Let Me Do It!”: Difficulty Delegating
Finally, stubbornness often presents as a reluctance to delegate tasks. The SOC believes they are the only one capable of performing tasks correctly, dismissing the abilities of staff and even younger colleagues. This “if you want it done right, do it yourself” mentality is a classic sign of stubbornness and inefficiency.
In reality, effective delegation is crucial for a well-functioning practice. Many tasks can be efficiently and effectively handled by trained staff, including veterinary technicians and administrative personnel. In fact, delegating allows veterinarians to focus on their specialized skills and responsibilities, improving overall practice productivity and reducing personal workload. Moreover, empowering staff through delegation increases job satisfaction and professional growth. Letting go and trusting your team is not a sign of weakness, but a hallmark of effective leadership and a move away from stubborn self-reliance.
Moving Beyond Stubbornness: Embracing Growth and Collaboration
Understanding what’s stubborn mean in the context of veterinary practice is the first step towards mitigating its negative effects. Recognizing these tendencies, whether in ourselves or our colleagues, allows us to address them constructively. It’s about fostering a culture of openness to change, valuing the contributions of all generations, embracing new knowledge, prioritizing well-being, and trusting our teams.
While a touch of “cussedness” might be a humorous stereotype, in its extreme form, stubbornness can hinder progress and negatively impact both individual veterinarians and the profession as a whole. By consciously challenging our own potential stubborn tendencies and fostering a more collaborative and adaptable environment, we can ensure a healthier, more innovative, and ultimately more fulfilling future for veterinary medicine.
Perhaps, instead of “Stubborn Old Cusses,” we should strive to be “Wise and Evolving Professionals,” constantly learning, adapting, and growing throughout our careers. And maybe, just maybe, the editors at Veterinary Economics were onto something when they asked me to write about this topic. Perhaps a little self-reflection is good for us all.
