Most clients report to me their surprise at meeting with business people who more often than not confer a level of unexpected credibility and deference on whatever they are talking about - even topics having nothing to do with medicine or healthcare.

In some ways it is unfortunate that physicians come from a world (medical practice) where they are treated rather harshly, perceived to be bad business people and have little influence on any topic outside the exam/operating room. Unfortunate, because they too often carry that same set of exceptions with them when they venture into new, nonclinical settings.

The reality is this, believe it or not, physicians are the most trusted people in America according to most (not all but most) polling. So, while you may believe you'll be pushed to the wall for your opinions in business, the person most likely to do the pushing is you. So, take a step back, consider your education, your training, your basic intellect, what you expose yourself to outside medicine and practice, and realize your thoughts, suggestions, and opinions have value - in some places a lot of value. Don't be so hard on yourself and learn to trust your instincts.

And, never forget, outside of medicine, "no matter what you say, what you recommend or opine, no one is going to die based on what you say." That's a quote from a client of mine who was so pleasantly surprised by life outside medicine. As she noted, "I no longer feel that everything I say and do has to be perfect."

So, take a chance, voice your opinions, use your experiences, and you will likely be viewed as much as an expert as you are in practice.