From mastering new tech to finding your tribe, here is how to invest in your growth and make this your most rewarding year yet.

With 2025 nearly in the rearview, it’s time to ask: how are you planning to build your career in 2026?

Growth rarely happens by accident; it happens when we intentionally step outside our comfort zones and double down on the skills that the future of eyecare demands. 

To help you hit the ground running, we’ve put together five ways to invest in yourself and make 2026 your most transformative year yet.

1. Master AI Augmentation

Explore specialized tools that go beyond the basics. 

Try Consensus to find instant, evidence-based answers from peer-reviewed medical research, or use Perplexity AI to get real-time industry news with verified sources and citations. For your internal strategy meetings, tools like Otter.ai can transcribe and summarize discussions into actionable "next steps" automatically. 

By offloading these routine tasks to AI, you reclaim the mental energy needed for the high-level strategy and patient-centered care that defines a true leader.

2. Find Your People Through Mentorship

You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. One of the best things you can do for yourself is to find a mentor who has been where you are.

While the application window for the current OWL Fellows Mentorship program has closed, keep a close eye on your inbox in Summer 2026 so you can apply for our next cohort! 

In the meantime, don't let that stop you from making a connection. OWL events are designed for organic mentorship and meaningful connection. Check out our upcoming events and find the inspiration you need to lead in 2026.

3. Cultivate Your Expert Voice

Investing in your career means ensuring your expertise is visible beyond your immediate office. In 2026, your "brand" is simply a shorthand for the unique value you provide to the industry.

Commit to sharing your perspective once a month. This doesn't have to be a formal paper; it could be a thoughtful LinkedIn post about a new trend, contributing a quote to an industry newsletter, or volunteering for a speaking opportunity. 

4. Say "Yes" to a Strategic Stretch Project

One of the fastest ways to propel your career is to step outside your "day job" and take on a strategic project. 

At least once in 2026, raise your hand for a project that feels slightly outside your comfort zone. This isn't about adding more work to your plate; it’s about choosing a project that gives you visibility with different departments and senior leaders.

5. Show Up and Connect

Networking doesn't have to be a chore or a room full of business cards; it’s simply about finding your community. Growth happens faster when you surround yourself with people who want to see you win.

At OWL, we’ve created an entire ecosystem of events and programs to ensure that finding your 'tribe' in eyecare is both natural and inspiring.

• Local Chapter Events: Join a local "Mix & Mingle" in cities like SoCal, Boston, or Fort Worth to connect with peers in your own backyard.
• Online Member Mixers: Can't travel? Our virtual mixers are perfect for a quick professional "recharge" and getting to know colleagues across the globe.
• Signature Events: Look for us at major eyecare meetings like SECO (February 27) and ASCRS (April 9). These high-energy receptions are where the "who’s who" of eyecare meet to build relationships and share ideas.
• Annual Leadership Summit: Mark your calendar for July 30–31 in Nashville. This is our premier event for deep-dive professional development and intentional networking that turns "contacts" into lifelong champions.

The difference between a year that feels like 'more of the same' and a year that changes your career trajectory is intentionality.

Success in the coming year begins with the momentum you build today by leaning into new AI tools or pursuing a strategic stretch project. At OWL, we are ready to support your 2026 journey with the resources, the community, and the platform you need to shine. 

Your year to lead starts now. How will you make your mark?