Today's healthcare environment is in constant motion with change. So much that is communicated (using all types of media) is the "negative" in healthcare. We hear about layoffs, downsizing, realignment, reductions in reimbursement, medical errors, and high healthcare costs. The list is endless. It is very easy as healthcare professionals become disengaged, discouraged, and develop a pessimistic outlook for the future.

Colleen Kelley Keith, MSN, RN, CGRN

The theme for the 2015 SGNA Annual Course is Connecting With Our GI Community. I am extremely proud that SGNA portrays its passion of gastroenterology as an optimistic partner involved in changing the healthcare environment in a positive way. I would like to share a few very powerful key points from the book, The Power of Optimism by Alan Loy McGinnis (1987). An optimist

1. is never surprised by trouble,

2. values a partial solution,

3. believes they have control over the future,

4. shares good news,

5. uses their imagination to rehearse success, and

6. accepts what cannot be changed.

Recently, our current association strategic plan was approved by your board of directors. This will give us guidance for the next few years. We will be moving forward developing meaningful relationships with many different disciplines in our healthcare arena. The plan focuses on infection prevention, colon cancer surveillance, evidence-based practices, and sedation. There is much important work ahead. As president, I challenge us to remain an optimistic organization and not be distracted by the "negatives." To accomplish this, I think the following can be a guide for us to achieve our goals.

Celebrate our successes.

Optimism is key.

Nourish one another to believe we can make desired changes.

Not talk about limitations but envision successes.

Evolve the healthcare environment you want to happen.

Commit toward a common purpose or goal.

Trust we can make a difference.

Strong leadership has always been necessary for a success in any worthwhile endeavor. I challenge us to focus on developing our optimistic leadership skills, enhancing our ability as a society to strengthen our professional relationships.

Engaging others in molding our future healthcare delivery models will make these models strong and credible and have enormous impact on a national and global level. I know we can do it!

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