It was a problem before the pandemic. “They” report is it better. For those of us on the front lines, physician burnout is not better. We are just tired of talking about it. Recent studies indicate that nearly 50% of physicians in the United States experience symptoms of burnout, leading to decreased job satisfaction, reduced […]
Why did you decide to become a doctor? Was it to help others, to challenge yourself, or to make a living? If you are like most physicians I know, it was likely a combination of all three. Now, pause a minute, and think about why you have the postion you currently hold. Why do you […]
When you meet someone new, how do you introduce yourself? Do you mention your job, your family, or your hobbies? What do you usually share? Many of us often highlight the concrete aspects of our lives, like our professions. This is especially true for doctors, who dedicate a lot of time, effort, and money to […]
As a physician who has experienced burnout firsthand, I know how hard it can be to find a way out. When I found myself at a crossroads, unsure whether to become a nonclinical physician or find a way to modify my current role, I started an unexpected journey of self-discovery and exploration. Through interviews for […]
I didn’t know I was burned out. Unfortunately, I didn’t even realize I wasn’t OK. Looking back, it was obvious. First, I wasn’t sleeping. Second, when I walked to work, I fantasized about disappearing. I thought, “If I keep walking, how long will it take for someone to notice that I didn’t show up to […]
The Need for Connection Are you drawn to the “new thing? How often do you get a new iPhone, look at new car models, or update the software you use at work? What drives you to invest in and try new technology? FOMO – the fear of missing out- is real. The desire to keep […]
Picture this: you’re in the operating room, and a critical error occurs. The patient’s life hangs in the balance, and the weight of the world seems to rest on your shoulders. In that moment, do you take ownership of the mistake, try to hide it, or place the blame on others? As a physician, you […]
When you think of a leader, who comes to mind? What qualities do they possess? What are their strengths and weaknesses? Can you picture yourself in a leadership role? In today’s culture, leaders are often loud, dynamic and outgoing. However, this leadership style does not work for everyone, and you do not have to be […]
I had the same dream again. In it, I was called to the Dean’s office and told there was a mistake in the admissions process. They said I didn’t actually meet the qualifications for medical school. They apologized and told me I’d have to pack up my things and reapply after improving my application. I […]
Twenty years ago, as a quiet first-year medical student, I never imagined how my struggles in small group sessions would shape my future career as a physician, coach, and teacher. Today, I use that experience to help other physicians discover and leverage their unique character strengths. Let’s start with a story from my medical school […]
