Dave Says: Time to Close Up?

Time to close up?

Dear Dave,

I have my own medical practice, but I’m in a lot of debt and the practice just doesn’t seem to be working out. I took out a large loan in the beginning, and I can’t seem to stay current on the payments no matter how hard I work. Do you think I should file bankruptcy?

– John

Dear John,

You went to school to be a doctor, which is an admirable thing. But now you’re also a businessman, so you need how to run your interest profitably.

Chances are you’re not bankrupt. It sounds to me like you made the mistake of starting a new business without first having a realistic business plan in place. Talk to your lender, and let them know what your situation is like right now. They may be willing to work with you on a plan that would give you a little bit of breathing room.

You might also look into the possibility of hiring a business manager. This would require paying someone an additional salary, but at least you’d be assured that the business side of things is being run properly.

But don’t file bankruptcy, John. It’s a stressful and emotionally-damaging process. You’re doing what you love and what you were called to do. The trick is to free up the money that will allow you to continue doing this great work!

– Dave