By Michael J. Zappa, MD FACEP

Ask yourself the question: could you be doing better? Use whatever frame of reference you would like, and I bet in at least one area or another you would answer yes. Undoubtedly everyone has enjoyed a period, whether long or short, when they felt like they have hit their stride, accomplished a goal, and reveled in some personal pride.  What did you do that was so right? In the stressful world of today it's easy to get caught in a rut, focusing on just surviving instead of thriving. If you're not at one of those peaks sailing along successfully, or if you are, and you want to keep it going, remember the three “Ps”: positivity, persistence, and priorities.

Positivity –  no, I'm not suggesting that everyone needs to be a “Pollyanna”: someone that thinks all is beautiful no matter what is happening . There is, however, the opportunity to find a better perspective even in the most challenging of times. On a personal level or as a team leader, finding the positivity may be as simple as counting your blessings, recognizing those whose challenges may be much more serious than yours, or in extreme situations simply starting on the road out of the current dismal dilemma. 

Look at the challenges the pandemic has placed on everyone, especially those in health care: demand for care outstripping the supply of beds and staff. Individuals and leaders must focus on the steps that will help us rise up from this state of crisis. This driving towards a solution(s) even if it is not achieved today, keeps the glass half full and exemplifies another fundamental element to attaining and sustaining peak performance:  persistence.

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