What makes a good PT?
I don't really know what motivated me to write on this topic, but for some reason I have been reflecting on my goals of being a good PT. What differentiates a good PT from a great PT, from an average PT?
I want to change lives. I want my patients to be better off after working with me. I want to make a difference. A friend of mine once said, "We don't make goals, we make commitments." I am 100% committed to doing the best I can to become a great physical therapist.
I think being a good PT is similar to being a good teacher. You can know a lot, and be very intelligent- but if you cannot communicate and connect with your patient/student, your knowledge means nothing. Being a PT means being able to form good relationships with your patients. (Is anyone else counting how many times I'm using the word "good"? It's kind of annoying, but I can't think of anything else at the moment.)
I have a strong desire to continue learning, which is why I applied for and accepted the residency program for next year. The bottom line is I want to be an exceptional physical therapist- and I am willing to do everything to make that commitment.
What do you think makes a good PT?