Stevie Potter shares how a sense of belonging can make all the difference to career satisfaction and overall wellbeing in dentistry.
Whether on the track, in the dental surgery, or sharing her views on social media to motivate others, it’s clear that Stevie Potter is passionate about the power of communities. As part of Bupa’s Holistic Health series, we spoke to the dentist, entrepreneur and top triathlete. Here’s what she had to say:
Dentistry is a deeply rewarding career, but it also has the potential to feel isolating at times. For Stevie, this feeling was all too familiar. ‘Before joining Bupa, I worked in a small independent practice, and like many clinicians, I worked hard to fit everyone else’s definition of success in the profession, moving from one appointment to the next, with little time to connect with others beyond the immediate team.’
Over time, this lack of connection led to a sense of stagnation and even questioning her place in the profession. ‘I found myself losing motivation. People around me were focused on achieving UDAs and had a “work hard, play hard” mentality, but I didn’t feel like I was going anywhere.
‘I felt stuck in a box, not knowing how to grow personally or professionally.’
That changed when she joined Bupa. The opportunity to connect with a broader network of professionals – especially during a recent conference where over 1,000 clinicians came together – helped her rediscover her passion for dentistry. ‘It showed me that dentistry isn’t just about working as a self-employed associate in a surgery. We can actually contribute to something much bigger.’
Stevie’s experience highlights that a sense of belonging can make all the difference to career satisfaction and overall wellbeing.
Why belonging matters
A strong sense of belonging in the workplace isn’t just about feeling welcome – it benefits mental health, boosts motivation and supports professional growth. Studies in workplace psychology have shown that employees who feel connected to their team experience:
- Lower stress levels – feeling isolated can lead to higher cortisol (stress hormone) levels, whereas strong social connections act as a positive buffer against workplace stress
- Greater job satisfaction – clinicians who feel valued and supported are more engaged in their work and more likely to stay in the profession long-term
- Increased resilience – facing challenges as part of a team helps individuals feel less overwhelmed and more confident in problem-solving
- Better professional development – exposure to different perspectives and shared experiences fosters learning and growth, making dentistry feel less like a solo endeavour and more like a collaborative effort.
Building connections – even in small ways – can have a big impact. Here are some practical ways to improve connections:
1. Seek out professional networks
Being part of a wider organisation can provide a sense of shared purpose. Whether attending conferences, joining mentorship programs, or simply engaging in group discussions, connecting with like-minded professionals far and wide helps remind you that you’re not alone in your experiences.
2. Reach out to colleagues – clinical and non-clinical
Support doesn’t just come from other dentists. Practice managers, dental nurses, receptionists and even non-clinical colleagues can offer valuable perspectives and encouragement. A simple conversation can spark new ideas and provide reassurance – even a quick chat can be invaluable.
3. Share and listen
One of the biggest frustrations many dentists face is feeling unheard. Actively engaging with peers, sharing experiences and listening to others fosters a culture of support and helps breaks this cycle.
4. Embrace different perspectives
Working in a collaborative environment – whether within a larger dental organisation or a well-connected independent practice – opens doors to diverse approaches in dentistry and healthcare overall. This can reinvigorate passion for the profession and help individuals find a career path that aligns with their values.
If you’re feeling isolated, remember support is often closer than you think. Sometimes, all it takes is a conversation to remind you that you’re part of something bigger.
Stevie is a dentist at Bupa Dental Care Taunton. She’s also a top triathlete and entrepreneur who is passionate about how Bupa Dental Care has supported her along the way. For more information on careers at Bupa, you can visit: jobs.bupadentalcare.co.uk
This article is sponsored by Bupa Dental Care.
