You don’t need to hate your job to start thinking about your next one. In fact, some of the best career moves begin with a vague feeling… that there might be something better, something more aligned with how you want to work and live. But before you start scrolling job boards or replying to recruiter DMs, it’s worth pausing to ask: what are you actually looking for? Because “not this” isn’t enough.

Whether you’re gently testing the waters or actively looking for a change, there’s huge value in getting clear on what really matters to you right now, in this phase of your career. This isn’t about overthinking or making a 10-year plan. It’s about asking the right questions early so that when a great role does show up, you’ll recognise it… and more importantly, know if it’s worth pursuing…

You already lead a team that values high clinical standards, ethical decision-making, and compassion. And AI is coming… already nibbling at the edges of diagnostics, scheduling, and client communication. The big question is no longer whether it will impact your practice, but how. We’ve unpacked where AI is genuinely adding value, where caution makes sense, and provided a foundation for those conversations without compromising the human touch that defines your care.

Imagine buying your team equipment that promises better diagnostics, higher quality imaging, or more efficient dentals…with no training or instruction manuals. You wouldn’t do it, and AI should be no exception. When thoughtfully implemented, it offers real advantages. But if left unchecked, it can introduce serious risks for your patients, clients, and team. Now is the time to engage, understand the opportunities, and make sure AI strengthens your care, your culture, and your clinical outcomes..

You’re not officially in charge. But people are starting to look to you. The newer team members ask for your opinion. You’re the one who steps in when something’s unclear. Your boss trusts you with a bit more responsibility than everyone else. You haven’t been given a title, but the signs are there – leadership is coming. And if you’re honest, you’re not sure you’re ready.

In veterinary practice, leadership rarely starts with a promotion. More often, it creeps in quietly – through trust, competence, and visibility. But when the moment finally comes, most people step into leadership roles with no training, little support, and only an idea of how different it is from clinical work. So this article is your primer. It won’t make you a great leader overnight, but it will help you start thinking like one. Because leadership isn’t something you wait for, it’s something you prepare for…