Advice for Resident Physicians
Congratulations to all the new resident physicians starting their exciting journey on July 1! As you embark on this new chapter, it’s important to approach residency with the right mindset and strategies to thrive both professionally and personally.
Four tips for resident physicians during training.
Embrace a growth mindset.
Remember that residency is a time of immense learning and development. Trust in the knowledge and skills you’ve acquired thus far, but remain open to new information and experiences. You’ll be constantly expanding your expertise, so view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles . Medicine is constantly changing. Develop habits now that will help you to keep up with medical advances throughout your career.
Cultivate “feedback literacy.”
Feedback is instrumental to your growth as a resident physician. Actively seek out feedback from attendings, peers, and other healthcare team members. Communicate your learning goals clearly to facilitate targeted feedback . When receiving feedback, listen carefully and aim to understand the key messages rather than reacting defensively. Take time to process the feedback, create actionable plans for improvement, and follow up on your progress . Remember that not all feedback is equally valid, so consider the source and context when deciding how to apply i. Part of aceepting feedback is deciding how to act on it. Prioritize what is important to you!
Learn from mistakes.
Mistakes are inevitable, especially during the steep learning curve of residency. Instead of viewing them as failures, reframe mistakes as valuable lessons. Openly discuss errors with your supervisors and colleagues to understand what went wrong and identify areas for improvement . Engage in self-reflection and develop action plans to prevent similar mistakes in the future. Embrace the idea that learning and growth are lifelong processes in medicine .
Prioritize your wellbeing.
Residency is demanding, so it’s crucial to develop sustainable self-care habits early on. Make time for activities that bring you joy and help you recharge, such as exercise, hobbies, and social connections . Establish a support system among your fellow residents and lean on each other during challenging times . Utilize the wellness resources and initiatives provided by your program, such as counseling services or resident wellness committees . Remember that taking care of yourself enables you to provide the best care for your patients . Self care is not selfish!
As you navigate the challenges and triumphs of residency, know that you are not alone. The Developing Doctor offers physician development coaching programs specifically designed to support residents like you. These programs provide guidance on embracing a growth mindset, building resilience, and optimizing your performance. Take advantage of these valuable resources to enhance your personal and professional growth throughout your residency journey.
Once again, congratulations on this remarkable achievement! Trust in your abilities, stay curious, and prioritize your wellbeing. Embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, knowing that each experience contributes to your development as a skilled and compassionate physician. Welcome to the exciting world of residency!
