What I Learned this Past Year

1. If you really want to do something, write it down. I have proven this several times.

2. Don’t listen to negative people who think something can’t be done.

3. While you don’t listen to the negative people, try to help them see the positive in life.

4. Budgets are more important each year. See item 1.

5. Exercise is important each day. Don’t fool yourself into thinking three days a week is enough. This is a great stress reducer.

6. Friends should come first, Try to make friends with everyone. See item 3.

7. Having a personal journal really helps with the year end review. See item 1 again.

8. Books and other self education is an investment with guaranteed returns. Better than any stock market.

9. It is ok to try new things.

10. Don’t sweat the small things. Really.

With over 27 years in Healthcare Environmental Services (ES), I lead with a belief that attitude drives outcomes. As a Regional Director at MultiCare Health System, I oversee multi-site ES operations with a focus on people-first leadership, infection control, and operational excellence. I champion a Positive Mental Attitude (PMA) not as a slogan, but as a leadership principle. I believe positivity is contagious, and as a leader, I set the tone. Through consistent, uplifting communication, I create environments where ES teams feel empowered to be helpful, proactive, and proud of their impact. For me, development is a choice, and I invest in training, huddles, and coaching that energize teams, helping them thrive in their current roles and grow toward what’s next. My approach to high standards isn't theoretical, it's practical. Just like we notice when a hotel room is clean and fresh, patients and families immediately sense a space that’s been cared for. Through standardized protocols, team accountability, and a shared mission, I help create clean, safe, and healing environments that directly enhance patient experience and staff well-being. It's a privilege to lead teams that play such a vital role in the patient journey, and to help elevate the perception and performance of ES professionals across our system.

What do you think?