I am so grateful to be in private practice. Granted, this is not for every optometrist. I've been in my own practice now for over 21 years. I literally enjoy coming into work daily. Some of the patients whom I've seen as kids bring their own kids in now. The office takes on a a real family feeling, both among the employees and the patients. Also, I have been able to network very effectively with the business community, belonging to three local chambers of commerce.