The book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is one of the most influential books ever written. Authored by Stephen R. Covey it has inspired millions of professionals to transform their lives for the better. For nearly 30 years the best-seller has offered compelling advice that remains as relevant today as ever before.
In this book, Stephen focuses on the immutable principles of honesty, fairness, equality and human dignity. All 7 habits offer empowering lessons for personal and career success. Below is an adaptation created by the Faculty at Healing Hands School of Holistic Health. It was re-written specifically for our students who are aspiring Massage Therapists and Holistic Health professionals.
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Massage Therapists
Be Proactive –
Solo-Practitioners don’t plan to fail, they fail to plan. Successful Massage Therapists understand the need to be proactive in building their business. They are proactive in letting others know who they are and what they offer. They seek creative ways to bring people in (workshops, holiday specials, co-operative events). They also take time to nurture loyalty (referrals, service packages, membership perks).
Begin with the End in Mind
Get clear about what you want to achieve. Ask yourself questions like: “Where is my practice going? Where do I want to be in 1 year or 5 years? What is the goal of this client’s treatment? What treatment plan is best to achieve desired results?
Put First Things First
No matter how skilled you may be as a Massage Therapist you can’t help others unless you are strong and healthy yourself. That’s why maintaining a healthy work/life balance is essential to becoming a highly successful Massage Therapist. You’ll need to decide how you define success and then prioritize your time accordingly. Scheduling time to re-charge yourself and connect with others ensures your ability to continue to care for others.
Think Win-Win
A Win-Win scenario is based on cooperation and a belief that there is plenty for everyone. It’s a mentality of “we can do more when we work together”. It requires we look for and create opportunities for mutual benefit with clients. For example, you may want to offer a client a free massage (or credit toward a massage) for every client they refer.
Seek First to Understand, then to be Understood
You must first understand your client’s needs before you can design their treatment plan. Do you ask appropriate questions and pay attention to the answers during intake? Do you check in with your client during therapy to ensure their comfort? Do you regulate your pressure to accommodate their body part’s unique condition? As Professional Massage Therapists you’ll need to be aware of both the verbal and non-verbal ques.
Synergize
Work cooperatively with others! Synergy is all about open-minded teamwork to bring in fresh ideas and new solutions. Networking with other Massage Therapists, Physical Therapists or Chiropractors, for example, can be mutually beneficial. Not only can you exchange and refer clients, it’s a great way to boost your knowledge.
Sharpen the Saw
An old saying that refers to growth, change and evolution. Sharpening the Saw for some Massage Therapist may mean learning new or advanced techniques. For others it may be, mastering integrative therapies, like Herbs and Nutrition. Some may just need to try a new creative or recreational endeavor, to renew their energy and enthusiasm.
Healing Hands offers two Certification Programs and more than 80 Massage and Holistic Health courses. Considered a trail-blazer in education of the Holistic Healing Arts, Healing Hands offers classes year-round during the day, evenings and on weekends. Learn more online at www.HealingHandsSchool.com or call us at (949) 305-2722 in Laguna Hills, (858) 505-1100 in San Diego, or (760) 746-9364 in Escondido.