by Amy Hayek, DVM, MA, CVA, CVC
Confidence is key. But how do you build confidence when you’re doing something brand new—something that no one around you does? How do you stay sure of yourself when people constantly tell you that animal chiropractic isn’t real?
I do this every day, and I want to share three ways you can build confidence in your practice.
1. Change Your Animal Chiropractic Language
How do you talk about animal chiropractic? More importantly, how do you think about it?
The words you use shape your confidence and influence how others perceive your work. Do you tell people it’s "alternative" or "experimental"? Those are terms some regulatory bodies prefer, but why? Because they fear that too many people might realize they have options beyond traditional veterinary medicine. The reality is, animal chiropractic empowers owners to take control of their animals’ health.
Instead of downplaying what you do, speak with authority. Every Animal Chiropractic Practice offers a healing modality that allows the body to function and heal at its best. When you talk about it that way—with confidence—others will believe in it too.
When clients ask how long treatment will take, be direct: “We’ll do three adjustments and reassess. If we don’t see improvement, we’ll adjust our approach. But nothing in those three adjustments will harm your animal.”
Your words matter. Own them.
2. Stand Tall—Literally, in your Animal Chiropractic Practice
Confidence isn’t just about what you say—it’s about how you carry yourself. Leaders don’t slouch into a room. They walk in with presence.
One simple way to instantly boost your confidence? Squeeze your glutes.
Yes, really! Engaging those muscles does more than improve your posture—it also strengthens your adjusting technique, making it more precise and effective. Good posture signals self-assurance and authority. When you look confident, people trust you.
3. Make Confidence a Habit
Want clients to make chiropractic a regular habit for their animals? You need to model that consistency first. Establish a reliable schedule that clients can count on. Make your appointments predictable and avoid constantly shifting your availability. People respect professionals who operate with consistency and dependability.
And don’t just show up for your clients—show up for yourself. A great way to do this is by participating in our Animal Chiropractic Mastermind on Mondays. The chiropractors who attend regularly see improvements in their practice simply by engaging with their peers, discussing cases, and sharpening their skills. Confidence grows when you immerse yourself in a community that supports and challenges you.
The Confidence Formula: Words + Posture + Consistency
Building confidence in animal chiropractic boils down to three things:
Change your language – Speak about your work with conviction.
Change your posture – Stand tall, engage your body, and own your space.
Show up consistently – Be reliable for your clients, your peers, and yourself.
Want to take your confidence even further? Join us at Animal Chiropractic Education and surround yourself with like-minded professionals committed to excellence.
You’ve got this!
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