Preparing ahead of time is an important step in your wellness journey, but that doesn't mean you need an accordion file of paperwork. Instead, bringing an organized notebook, folder or journal to every medical visit can be a game changer. Think of it as your personal health portfolio.

Here, you’ll track thoughtful questions for your doctor, current medications or supplements, and even articles you’ve read that piqued your interest. You might be surprised how appreciated your diligence and physical notes are by healthcare professionals. It signals that you’re serious about your health — as are they.

Effective communication in healthcare is an art, and it’s personal. Whether it's a face-to-face conversation, secure messaging through platforms like MyChart, or visual aids from your physician, it’s vital that you find the method that resonates with you. Remember, this is your time.

The purpose of your doctor’s visit is to serve you, to make sure you leave with clarity and confidence. Elevate the dialogue, communicate changes, ask the right questions, and never hesitate to request a further explanation — this is your health, and your understanding is paramount.

Accountability is rooted in the word "count" and that's your secret weapon in maintaining momentum. Our memories are fallible, especially when it comes to tracking subtle but important shifts in our health.

So, what are you keeping track of?

Doctor visits, screenings, health records, test results, lifestyle adjustments — each of these elements contributes to the bigger picture. Leverage apps, digital calendars, EMRs, and journals to stay on top of your health trajectory. This is how you hold yourself accountable and stay ahead of the curve.

Wellness isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it type of thing. It’s a continuous learning process that requires both understanding and action. Until you grasp the root causes of your current physical state, lasting change remains elusive.

Tap into the insights from your healthcare team — not just quick online searches — and connect the dots between visits, trends, patterns, and even different practitioners. Ask them for reading material and trusted resources.

Self-advocacy is the ultimate form of proactivity. It means stepping up, asking the tough questions, and making sure your voice is heard. At the heart of it, you are your own best advocate—no one else will prioritize your health quite like you can.

It’s about taking ownership of your wellness, standing firm in your needs, and ensuring that every decision made aligns with your best interest. Speak up if you are feeling rushed and never be afraid of asking for a second opinion.