One of the things I enjoy most about teaching endodontics is the questions. Some are straightforward and well anticipated, whilst others might be completely unexpected. I’ve heard questions that stop everyone in the room. A lively discussion follows and, by the end of it, we realise that many of us had been wondering exactly the same thing but hadn't quite found the confidence to ask.

At first glance, 5S appears to be a simple organisational system. Look a little deeper, however, and I think it offers us a useful framework for thinking about how we work, learn and develop as professionals.

Behind each dentist is a unique personality and life that might be messy, complicated and inappropriate for the calm, quiet of the surgery. How do we enjoy days being wholly ourselves whilst being mindful of our professional obligations? Here are five ways to do that, without losing professionalism.