There is a moment in every optical professional’s career when the routine of repetitive eye exams, dispensing glasses, and fine-tuning prescriptions starts to feel, well, comfortable. Comfort is wonderful, but growth rarely happens there.

The optical industry is full of opportunities beyond the walls of your practice. Engaging with the broader community can not only increase job fulfilment but also spark happiness that flows into the rest of your life. It can be as simple as connecting with peers outside your workplace, joining a local association or committee, attending conferences, or volunteering your professional skills to a charitable endeavor. Getting involved isn’t just about padding your resume—it’s about expanding your professional identity, sharing your perspective, and contributing to the greater good of the profession.

Whether you are a newbie or a veteran of the industry, stepping onto the scene can feel intimidating. The key is to push aside your apprehension, quiet the voices of comparison, and start with a simple action, because momentum begins with one small step of engagement.

Attend an event. Showing up to a local continuing educational event, trunk show, or attending an association meeting is a meaningful step. If you're feeling apprehensive, bringing along a co-worker can reduce anxiety, but make sure that familiar presence doesn’t prevent you from meeting new people.

Tip: Go with a goal of connecting with three to five new people. Exchange contact info or connect on social media with the ones you truly click with, then follow up with a quick note or message. A simple “it was great to meet you” helps turn a brief encounter into a lasting connection.

Follow industry media. Stay up to date of the goings on in the industry through trade publications (like Eyecare Business), social media groups, and newsletters from optical organizations.

Tip: Create a separate optical email account to organize professional information all in one place. Set aside time to catch up with all the news and industry developments. Perusing this on your lunch break can have you walking back into the dispensary inspired with new ideas and strategies to try.

Mentor or mentee. Mentorship can seem like a commitment, but it doesn’t have to be. These relationships often evolve into lasting professional friendships that lead to growth and opportunities.

Tip: If you’re unsure how to start, simply ask someone whose work you admire if they’d be open to having a conversation. A quick 15-minute call can open doors. If you’re further along in your career, be open to sharing your expertise with someone new to the industry. You’ll be surprised how much you learn by teaching.

Join a membership organization. Being part of a group of professionals not only connects you to a broader group of peers but also offers benefits like education, advocacy, mentorship, and events.

Tip: Start by choosing one organization that aligns with your interests or career goals. Follow them on social media, sign up for newsletters, and attend one virtual or in-person event. Volunteer to assist with an event, mentorship program, or committee. Your time and enthusiasm are often the most valuable contributions. The more you participate, the more meaningful your membership becomes. If you don’t know where to start, I recommend looking into the American Optometric Association, the Optical Women’s Association, Latinos En Optometry, or the Black Eyecare Perspective.

• The Optical Women’s Association provides mentorship and empowerment for women across all roles in the optical industry through networking, professional development, and leadership programs. opticalwomen.com

• The American Optometric Association gives access to research journals, education at the annual Academy meeting, and networking among clinical and academic leaders. aoa.org

• Latinos En Optometry is an organization focused on increasing Latino representation in the profession, supporting mentorship and networking among Latino ECPs, and improving access to eye care in Hispanic and Latin communities.

• The Black Eyecare Perspective is dedicated to creating a more diverse and inclusive eyecare industry, particularly through its 13% Promise initiative, which aims to increase representation in the industry to match the 13.4% of the U.S. population who identify as Black or African American.

Getting involved in the optical industry does more than bring new skills: It builds confidence, creates memorable experiences, instils a deeper sense of purpose, and fosters lasting friendships that extend outside the industry. Engaging isn’t reserved for those with titles, tenure, or influence; it’s open to anyone willing to show up, dedicate their time, and contribute. You might just discover that the clearest vision comes from engaging beyond the requirements of your 9-to-5 role in the industry.