Welcome.

Defining Your Core Values and Mission for Practice Success

Discover how to define your core values and craft a mission statement that lays the foundation for a thriving, sustainable practice. Learn actionable steps to build trust with patients and align your services with purpose.

Dr. Ayanna Cobb

1/21/20252 min read

Step 1: Identify Your Core Values

Core values represent what you stand for as a practitioner. They define how you operate, interact with patients, and approach challenges. Without clear values, decision-making can feel scattered and reactive.

To identify your core values:

  1. Reflect on what matters most to you in your practice.

  2. Choose five values that resonate deeply with your approach to care.

  3. Rank your top three in order of importance.

Examples of Core Values

  • Compassion

  • Integrity

  • Innovation

  • Community

  • Empowerment

  • Transparency

Exercise:
Once you’ve chosen and ranked your values, ask yourself:

  • How do these values show up in my daily interactions?

  • What do these values say about the type of experience I want to create for my patients?

Step 2: Write Your Mission Statement

A mission statement answers three essential questions:

  1. Who do you serve?
    (e.g., chronic pain patients, women with hormonal imbalances, athletes)

  2. What do you help them achieve?
    (e.g., regain mobility, reduce stress, improve energy)

  3. How do you do it differently?
    (e.g., through acupuncture, holistic wellness plans, or a patient-centered approach)

Mission Statement Formula
“I help [specific audience] achieve [specific result] by providing [unique service or approach].”

Example:
"I help chronic pain patients regain mobility and improve their quality of life through a blend of acupuncture and personalized wellness plans."

Once you’ve drafted your mission, ensure it’s clear, concise, and inspiring. A strong mission not only attracts patients but also helps you stay focused on your goals.

Step 3: Reflect on Your Values in Action

Your core values are most powerful when they guide your actions. Think about a time when your values made a difference in a patient’s experience.

Reflection Questions:

  • What value was most important in that moment?

  • How did your actions align with that value?

  • What was the outcome for your patient?

For example, if one of your core values is Compassion, perhaps you went above and beyond to accommodate a patient’s urgent need. This act of kindness not only strengthened the patient’s trust but also reinforced your commitment to your values.

Living Your Mission and Values

Your mission and values should be more than just words—they should shape how you run your practice. Here are three ways to integrate them into your daily work:

  1. Use them to guide tough decisions.

  2. Share them with your team to create alignment.

  3. Communicate them to patients to build trust and connection.

Take Action Today

Here’s your action plan for putting these principles into practice:

  1. Refine your mission statement. Ensure it feels authentic and aligns with your vision.

  2. Identify three ways to live your mission this week. For example:

    • Explain your treatment plans with clarity and transparency.

    • Offer compassionate listening during patient consultations.

    • Stay consistent with your pricing and service delivery.

Final Thought:
Your mission and values are the foundation of a thriving practice. By defining and living them, you create a business that not only supports your goals but also transforms the lives of your patients.

As you move forward, remember this: Every successful practice starts with a clear purpose. Define yours, and the possibilities are endless.