There’s a reason why armed forces have focused on morale throughout human history. When troops are in good spirits, they fight better. The same concept is visible in sporting events when one team has the home-court advantage; the crowd’s energy stirs up even more focus to win. And in your own life, it’s evident that attitude and mood affect the outcome of your relationships and work.

As the leader of your dental practice, you’re responsible for morale. Like a leader addressing an army or a coach prepping a team before a game, you inspire the staff every day and set the tone. Anyone who’s witnessed how leaders influence an organization understands just how much one person can impact morale. Positive, enthusiastic leaders can motivate people to overcome overwhelming odds, and poor, ineffective leaders can take thriving teams and dash them to pieces.