As an OB/GYN in Sidney, Montana, I’ve delivered babies during snowstorms, comforted new parents through long nights, and celebrated the incredible strength of women in every season of life. And through it all, one thing keeps proving true:
The people who keep showing up—day after day, moment after moment—are the ones who build lasting change.
Don’t get me wrong—excellence is beautiful.
The dramatic save, the buzzer-beater, the once-in-a-while brilliance? That deserves a cheer.
But the real magic?
The kind that transforms health, relationships, and entire lives?
That happens through consistency.
Not once. Not perfectly. But repeatedly.
It’s Not “Either-Or”—But Here’s the Secret
We live in a world that loves a highlight reel. We’re drawn to excellence—and that’s okay!
Pushing toward mastery, reaching your personal best, doing something remarkable? That’s powerful.
But here’s what often gets overlooked: consistency is the foundation that makes excellence possible.
And even better?
Consistency is attainable. It’s accessible to all of us—even on the days we feel tired, unsure, or less than our best.
What That Means in Medicine
In healthcare—and in life—it’s not just about what you do once. It’s about what you keep doing.
I’m not just here for emergencies. I’m here for the check-ins you almost skip. The “I don’t know if this matters” questions. The quiet wins.
Because those moments?
They do matter. They’re what build long-term wellness, trust, and strength.
So when I encourage my patients to show up regularly—to drink the water, take the walk, ask the question—I’m not saying, “Don’t aim for greatness.”
I’m saying, “Let’s build something sustainable—so you can thrive in both the ordinary and the extraordinary.”
What the Athletes Already Know
Think about the player who shows up early to practice, works hard, and doesn’t quit—even when no one’s watching. They may not always be the flashiest, but when the pressure’s on, they’re ready.
They’ve been preparing for that moment all along.
Not by chasing perfection, but by showing up.
So What Does This Mean For You?
You don’t need to have it all figured out.
You don’t need to be flawless.
And you don’t need to do it all at once.
Here’s what you can do:
- Keep your appointments—even when you feel fine.
- Move your body—even just a little.
- Hydrate, rest, pay attention to how you feel.
- Ask the question—even if it feels small.
And most importantly: keep showing up.
What This Looks Like as a Parent
It’s the same at home. Being a consistent parent doesn’t mean being perfect. It doesn’t mean always having the right answer or creating magical moments every day. It means showing up. Being present. Listening, even when you’re tired. Making dinner, even if it’s simple. Offering hugs, boundaries, and your steady presence—even when you’re not at your best.
Your kids don’t need a superhero. They need you—reliable, loving, human you. That quiet, dependable love builds trust, confidence, and emotional safety. Over time, those ordinary moments become the foundation your family grows on. Not flashy, but powerful.
My Choice
I believe in excellence.
I believe in rising to the moment when it counts.
But more than anything, I believe in doing the work when no one’s watching.
So that’s what I choose—again and again.
I choose consistency.
And if excellence shows up along the way? I’ll welcome it with open arms.
“Excellence may inspire us—but consistency transforms us.”