The phrase “Be-Do-Have” has long been a guiding principle in chiropractic circles and beyond.
It’s a statement that suggests a sequence for success: first, embody the qualities of the person you want to become (Be), then take the necessary actions (Do), and finally, achieve the desired outcomes (Have). It’s a philosophy that resonates with many and has been a cornerstone for personal and professional development within our profession. But as I reflect on this idea, I find myself wondering—does “Be-Do-Have” need a rethink?
The Power of “Be-Do-Have”
Let’s start by acknowledging why “Be-Do-Have” has stood the test of time. It’s a powerful reminder that true change begins from within. Before we can expect to see results in our practices, our relationships, or our personal lives, we must first cultivate the mindset, values, and beliefs that align with those outcomes. It’s a call to authenticity—to not just go through the motions, but to genuinely embody the principles we espouse.
In chiropractic care, this means being a doctor who truly believes in the power of the body to heal itself, who sees the nervous system as central to health, and who is committed to the well-being of every patient. From this place of being, we then take the necessary actions—conducting thorough examinations, utilizing advanced tools like INSiGHT scanning technologies, and crafting personalized care plans. The results, or the “Have,” naturally follow as patients experience improved health and vitality.
Is It Time for a Flip?
But, as much as I appreciate the wisdom of “Be-Do-Have,” I can’t help but wonder if it might benefit from a little rethinking—or perhaps, a flip. What if we considered starting with the “Have”? What if we began by defining the results we want to achieve, and then worked backward?
Imagine for a moment that you’re clear on what you want your practice to look like. You envision a thriving office filled with patients who are committed to their health, who value chiropractic care, and who are advocates for the power of a well-aligned spine and a healthy nervous system. You “Have” this vision firmly in mind. From there, you ask yourself: What do I need to Do to make this vision a reality? What actions, strategies, and systems need to be in place? Finally, you consider the “Be”—who do I need to Be to take these actions consistently and effectively? What qualities, beliefs, and mindset do I need to cultivate?
Why the Original Sequence Still Matters
While this flipped approach can be an intriguing exercise, there’s a reason “Be-Do-Have” has endured as the preferred sequence. Starting with “Being” ensures that our actions are grounded in authenticity and integrity. It prevents us from becoming so focused on outcomes that we lose sight of who we are and why we do what we do. In chiropractic care, where the relationship between doctor and patient is so foundational, this integrity is essential.
That said, there’s value in occasionally revisiting and questioning our guiding principles. By playing with the sequence, we can gain new insights and perspectives that enrich our understanding and approach. The “Have-Do-Be” approach, for example, can help us clarify our goals and reverse-engineer the steps needed to achieve them, all while ensuring that we’re becoming the practitioners our patients need.
A Balanced Perspective
Ultimately, I believe the strength of “Be-Do-Have” lies in its balanced approach to personal and professional growth. It’s a reminder that who we are informs what we do, and what we do determines what we achieve. But as with any guiding principle, it’s worth revisiting from time to time, challenging it, and seeing how it holds up in the context of our evolving practices and lives.
So, does “Be-Do-Have” need a rethink? Maybe, maybe not. But one thing is certain—whether we start with being, doing, or having, the key is to remain committed to the journey of growth, learning, and excellence in all that we do as chiropractors. In the end, it’s this commitment that truly defines our success.
— Dr. David Fletcher, President & CEO of CLA Inc
