Overcoming Your Roadblocks: A Physician's Guide to Navigating Change When it’s Time to Move On

An earlier version of this article appeared on this website in December, 2023.

If you’re feeling stuck in your practice, torn between your current role and the pull toward something different, you’re not alone. In the old paradigm, physicians assumed they’d join a practice after training and remain there until retirement. Especially in private practice, moving locations, switching roles, or stepping away from clinical work altogether was rare and even stigmatized.

But the landscape has changed. Across every sector, more physicians are re-evaluating what fulfillment means—and realizing that staying true to your values may require reimagining your role, whether within your current system or beyond it.

It’s a deeply personal realization, and one that can feel both unsettling and energizing. And it’s becoming increasingly common.

In fact, a recent Mayo clinic survey reported that one in five physicians plan to leave their practices within the next two years, and one in three expect to reduce work hours. A second study found that amongst academics, one in three felt a moderate or greater intention to leave. And a 2023-2024 AMA survey of nearly 18,000 physicians from more than 100 health care systems reported similar finding across all physicians. What’s more, the number may be closer to 40 percent in some specialties, including Anesthesiology, Radiology, and Vascular and General Surgery. Burnout, excessive EHR requirements, and lack of support from their organizations were primary issues cited in these studies.

All of this is to say that if you're considering a change, you’re not alone. But that doesn’t make the decision easy. Physicians are often motivated by loyalty and compassion. But we are also creatures of habit, and veering off the well-worn path can feel daunting.

You’re someone who’s used to thinking independently and making critical decisions, but it’s likely that your roadmap was clearly defined from the start: college, medical school, residency, maybe fellowship. As long as you followed this straight and narrow track, and nothing unexpected knocked you off course, you would make it down the road. Waiting for you at the end of the trail would be a satisfying profession, a place of respect in your community, and a happy home life to balance it all out.

Over the past decade, that promise has faded for many physicians. Burnout due to lack of autonomy, higher patient demands, a sicker and older population, falling reimbursements, the unrelenting pace of EHR tasks: all have contributed. So have our increasingly disconnected healthcare systems. It’s not surprising that more and more doctors are reflecting on what they want from their careers, and what might need to shift.

Moving on is sometimes the best and healthiest choice. But change doesn’t always mean leaving your organization or giving up your practice altogether. Sometimes transformation begins by renegotiating how you work: seeking new roles, advocating for flexibility, or crafting a job description that better aligns with your strengths and goals.

Still, thinking about change of any type can feel like stepping into the unknown. The hardest part is often getting started. It may even feel as if your feet are stuck in quicksand. That’s normal. But once you begin, you’ll discover that your momentum will build and possibilities will unfold as you continue to move forward.

In this article, I’ll give you seven actionable steps that can help you move forward when you’re feeling stuck.

1. Self-Reflection

Before deciding what’s next, take time to reflect on what matters most, both professionally and personally. You don’t need to know the final destination yet, but clarity around your values, interests, and strengths is essential.

Journaling for a few minutes each day can help. Ask yourself:

❓What are my defining values? How do I want to manifest those values in my daily life?

❓What aspects of my current role energize me—or drain me?

❓What skills do I love using? And what would I be happy to give up?

❓How do I want to feel at the end of each day?

❓What would I regret not doing, both personally and professionally?

❓How will any change I make impact my loved ones, either positively or negatively?

Making time for self-reflection will lay the foundation for building a more aligned, satisfying professional life, whether that’s in a new place or a new role within your current setting.

  2. Recognize Your Triggers and Limiting Beliefs:

When you’re contemplating change, it’s natural for doubts to arise: “I can’t start over,” “I’m too far along,” “What would my colleagues/ family/friends think of me?” or “I’m lucky to have a job—why rock the boat?”

Instead of pushing these thoughts aside, examine them:

❓What stories am I telling myself?

❓What are these beliefs protecting me from?

❓Are they actually true—or just familiar?

❓What would it take to feel more confident in exploring a new path?

❓If there are meaningful limitations that are holding me back, how can I close the gaps?

Acknowledging and challenging these beliefs is a key step toward moving forward.

 3. Seek Guidance

 Talk to mentors, colleagues, or others who’ve made career shifts, whether big or small. You may be surprised by how many have reimagined their roles without leaving their organizations. Others may have made audacious shifts and found greater fulfillment. And some may have dealt with regrets and learned from their mistakes. The point is not to recreate anyone’s story, but rather to understand that your own possibilities may be more expansive than you realize.

Tapping into others’ experiences can offer both perspective and inspiration. Just be thoughtful about whom you confide in—especially if your plans are still unfolding.

 4. Set Achievable Goals

Break your career change into smaller, manageable goals. This not only makes the process less intimidating but also gives you a way to envision the road ahead.

Rather than winging it and hoping for the best, create a timeline with defined milestones. These might include:

✅Gaining specific qualifications or licensure

✅Attending relevant conferences,

✅Researching places you might want to live

✅Identifying internal opportunities that might better align with your goals

✅Exploring part-time or leadership roles within your system

✅Updating your CV or LinkedIn profile

✅Reaching out to potential employers or colleagues in your desired field.

Use the SMART framework—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—to track your progress and stay motivated.

 5. Reframe Setbacks as Lessons

 Rejection can sting. And not every door will open right away. Setbacks are part of any meaningful journey. Instead of seeing them as failures, view them as data.

What did you learn? What might you do differently next time? What can you take with you to the next opportunity?

Stay rooted in your “why,” and let that guide your next move.

 6. Get Comfortable with the Unknown

 Uncertainty is normal. It’s uncomfortable, especially if you’ve grown accustomed to defined pathways. But the unknown becomes less intimidating when you ground yourself in research and preparation.

If you’re exploring a nonclinical role, learn the landscape. If you’re considering a new position, understand the expectations, workflows, and culture. And if your skills need to be refreshed, find out what you need to do to make that happen, then make a plan to get it done.

The more you know, the more confident you’ll feel taking the next step.

 7. Keep an Open Mind

You don’t need to have everything figured out right now. Stay open to possibilities while keeping your perspective grounded. Often unexpected new opportunities will present themselves while you are putting in the work.

Seek input from those you trust, but recognize that you’re the one who knows yourself best. Give yourself the space to grow into what’s next.

Final Thoughts

Redefining your path as a physician takes courage, clarity, and commitment. You’ve honed these skills over the past decades of training and professional practice. Now, it’s about using them to design the life that you want to live. Whether you're stepping into a new career, transitioning into a different role within your current system, or simply giving yourself permission to explore, start by addressing the internal roadblocks that stand in your way.

Be willing to ask bold questions and take thoughtful action. Most of all, trust in your ability to create a more fulfilling and sustainable future.

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If you’ve enjoyed this article and would like to stay in the loop for more insights on creating a sustainable, fulfilling, and happy life as a physician, sign up for my newsletter or reach out on my website. I’d love to hear from you.

And if you’d like to schedule a complimentary introductory meeting with me, click the link below.

Your Physician Job Offer Survival Guide: 40+ Questions to Secure the Right Deal

Whether you’re fresh out of training, looking for a new start, or or advancing into the next chapter of your career, it’s essential to know what you’re signing up for before committing to a new job.

Back in the early 1990’s, the managing partner of my first practice seemed taken aback when I asked to review the contract before signing. He muttered something about the good old days, when business was done with a handshake. I doubt that was ever a good idea. But even when you have a contract in hand, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the implications of your decision. After all, it’s likely that you’re not just taking a job— you’re planning to build a life there.

To help you get started, I’ve compiled a comprehensive list of questions that you should consider before accepting a new position. These cover everything from compensation and call schedules to long-term growth opportunities and organizational culture. There is no one-size-fits-all solution. It’s important to understand that every contract and compensation structure is unique. Take some time to clarify what your own needs are, what you’re willing to bend on, and what is non-negotiable.

Even if everything sounds perfect, it’s a good idea to get multiple perspectives from current and past physician group members whenever possible. By asking the right questions, you can make an informed decision that supports both your career and your well-being. Before signing on the dotted line, always consult with a qualified healthcare contract attorney or advisor to review your offer and ensure your interests are protected.

1. Role and Responsibilities: Know What You're Signing Up For

• What are the specific expectations for this role?

• What is the call schedule like? How often will I be on call?

• What’s the breakdown of clinical vs. non-clinical duties?

• What does a typical day or week look like?

• How is research time and support structured?

• Are there opportunities to shape or evolve the role over time?

2. Compensation and Benefits: Understand the Full Package

• What is the compensation structure (salary, RVUs, bonuses)?

• Is the salary guaranteed or productivity-based? Are there annual increases?

• Are there sign-on bonuses, relocation assistance, or student loan repayment options?

• What are the retirement plan options (e.g., 401(k), 403(b), employer match)?

• Is malpractice insurance provided? What type (claims-made or occurrence)? Is a tail provided if I leave or retire?

• What health, dental, vision, life, or disability benefits are included?

• How is paid time off (PTO) structured? Is it separate from sick leave?

• Is there a maternity/paternity leave policy?

• What are the CME benefits (time off and stipend)?

• Are there additional income opportunities (moonlighting, teaching, consulting)?

• What expenses are reimbursed (licensing, board fees, memberships)?

3. Career Development: Beyond the First Year

• Are there opportunities for leadership roles or academic involvement?

• What is the pathway for promotion or advancement?

• Are mentorship or onboarding programs available for new physicians?

• Does the organization support continuing education or conference attendance?

4. Practice Environment: Assess the Day-to-Day Reality

• What is the patient population like? What are the common conditions treated?

• How are new patients assigned? Can I build my own panel?

• How many patients am I expected to see per day or week?

• What is the support team structure (RNs, PAs, MAs, scribes)?

• What EMR system is used? Are physicians involved in EMR decision-making?

• What quality metrics are tracked? How are they measured and used?

5. Organizational Culture: Find Out What It’s Like to Work There

• How would you describe the culture of the organization or department?

• How is physician well-being supported?

• What is the leadership style? How accessible are department and executive leaders?

• How are conflicts or concerns typically handled?

• How many physicians have left in the past 5 years? Is it possible to contact them?

6. Long-Term Prospects: Look Ahead

• Is there a path to partnership, ownership, or becoming a shareholder?

• If I can’t become a partner, will I still have the opportunity to serve on committees or vote on important changes?

• What are the organization's strategic goals or planned changes over the next 3–5 years?

• Is there flexibility for role changes down the road (e.g., reduced hours, academic time, admin focus)?

7. Community and Logistics: Make Sure It Fits Your Life

• What is the surrounding community like in terms of cost of living, schools, and lifestyle?

• What support is offered for relocating (e.g., temporary housing, realtor support, moving expenses)?

• Are there opportunities for physicians to connect socially or professionally outside of work?

• If you have a spouse or significant other, will the community suit their needs and interests?

• If your spouse or partner needs to find a job, will the organization provide assistance with this?

8. Exit Clauses and Contract Flexibility: Read the Fine Print

• Does the contract include a non-compete clause? What are its terms?

• What happens to bonuses or relocation benefits if I leave early?

• Is there flexibility to renegotiate compensation or scope after the first year?

• Are there limitations on outside paid non-clinical work like medical writing, speaking, legal consultations, or industry collaboration?

• What is the termination process—by either party?

Final Thoughts

Job offers are about more than just numbers. They're about your well-being, your career trajectory, and the life you want to build outside the hospital, clinic, or lab. Leaving a job that’s a poor fit is incredibly stressful, not to mention a financial hit, so take the time and effort to ensure the opportunity aligns with your values and goals.

If you're navigating a career decision and want support thinking through the details, coaching can help. I work with physicians at all stages of their careers to clarify what matters most and move forward with purpose.

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If you’ve enjoyed this article and would like to stay in the loop for more insights on creating a sustainable, fulfilling, and happy life as a physician, sign up for my newsletter or reach out on my website. I’d love to hear from you.

And if you’d like to schedule a complimentary introductory meeting with me, click the link below.

Using Tension as a Tool: Turning Discomfort into Strength

What do you feel when you think of the word tension? Maybe it’s a furrowed brow, a tightening in the shoulders, or a clenching of the jaw? Why wouldn’t you want to avoid such an uncomfortable feeling?

The Miriam Webster Dictionary defines tension as “inner striving, unrest, or imbalance, often with physiologic indication of emotion”, but also as “a balance maintained in an artistic work between opposing forces or elements.”

It’s normal to try to smooth over any sense of discomfort as soon as it arises. But what if you reframed tension as a tool—something to be explored and used to your advantage? Something that might even help you to create balance in your life and greater satisfaction in your medical practice. In this article, we’ll explore the ways that you can make tension work for you.

Tension as a Stimulus

Tension is a natural part of growth. In the body, muscles strengthen when they are challenged with resistance.

In the mind, as with problem solving, scientific research or even art, breakthroughs happen when we hold space for competing ideas and perspectives. And in personal and professional development, tension often signals the moments where change is possible.

Tension as a Signal

As a physician, you may experience tension as a pull between the demands of patient care and personal well-being, or between your role as a trusted healer and the bureaucratic realities of modern healthcare. Instead of always seeing this as a burden, what if you used it as a signal to reassess, reprioritize, and innovate? 

As a coach, I work with physicians who may yearn for immediate relief from career dissatisfaction, burnout, or decision fatigue. But sustainable change doesn’t usually come from escaping tension—it comes from staying with it long enough to understand what it’s trying to reveal.

The tension between wanting stability and craving change, between honoring commitments and protecting personal boundaries, can become the catalyst for transformation when approached with curiosity instead of resistance.

Tension as a Creative Tool

Tension in a work of art—whether through contrast, unexpected juxtapositions, or asymmetry—creates interest. A perfectly balanced, symmetrical photograph might be beautiful, but it can also be forgettable, lost in a sea of similar work. It’s the unexpected tension in a frame that pulls the viewer in, making them linger and engage. 

The same is true in problem-solving. Whether you are navigating career decisions, leadership dynamics, or personal dilemmas, the most creative and impactful solutions often emerge from the friction between opposing forces. This idea can also be applied to patient care, for instance when trying to devise a complex treatment plan for a patient with competing health and personal issues.

When you try to escape tension, it can be tempting to settle for the easiest answer instead of the best one. Instead, if you stay with the discomfort a little longer, you may allow space for deeper insight and more creative approaches.

Using Tension Intentionally

Just as yoga can teach you to breathe through physical tension rather than fight it, we can apply the same principle to mental and professional challenges. By leaning into discomfort with awareness, you allow yourself room to experience growth.

Pause Instead of Reacting

When you feel tension -- whether in a difficult conversation, a contentious committee meeting, or an internal conflict—take a moment to pause. Instead of immediately resolving the discomfort by taking the path of least resistance, ask yourself “What is this tension telling me?”

Reframe Tension as Information

Instead of trying to scape it, view tension as a source of data. If a decision is difficult, what values or priorities are in conflict? If a conversation is uncomfortable, what truths might need to be acknowledged? 

Use Tension to Expand Possibilities

In my coaching practice, I often ask my clients “What if you didn’t have to choose one or the other? What if both things could be true?” Tension can lead to a binary mindset, an either/or perspective, but staying with it can reveal more nuanced, integrated, and interesting solutions. 

Apply Tension to Leadership and Communication

Great leaders use tension productively. Instead of avoiding difficult conversations or suppressing dissent, they recognize that discomfort can lead to clarity, deeper alignment, and stronger teams. Productive tension—when handled with respect—can push individuals and teams toward innovation and better decision-making that makes room for everyone’s perspective.

Let Tension Strengthen Your Work

Whether you’re navigating a career transition, leading a team, or developing a new project, tension signals that something important is at stake. Instead of smoothing things over too soon, ask yourself: How can I use this tension to create something better?

Leaning into Tension

When used mindfully, tension can deepen your thinking, sharpen your skills, and lead to better outcomes in virtually any aspect of your life. 

Instead of asking, How do I get rid of this tension? try asking yourself, What can this tension teach me? That shift in perspective might be the key to unlocking your next breakthrough.

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If you’ve enjoyed this article and would like to stay in the loop for more insights on creating a sustainable, fulfilling, and happy life as a physician, sign up for my newsletter or reach out on my website. I’d love to hear from you.

And if you’d like to schedule a complimentary coaching discovery meeting, click the button below.

Taking Action Creates Clarity

An earlier version of this article appeared on this website in August, 2023

Do you ever feel like you’re standing on the edge of a cliff, unsure of how to move forward but knowing you can’t stay where you are? Maybe it feels like you’re staring down a steep ski slope, wondering how you’ll ever get to the bottom in one piece.

I’ve been there—literally. As I hesitated at the top of a daunting ski run, my adventurous friend Erica hollered, “Just point your skis down the mountain and go!” It wasn’t the most comforting advice, but it was the nudge I needed.

Spoiler alert: my descent was not graceful. But by simply starting, I learned to navigate the pitch of the slope, feel the texture of the snow, and chart a strategic path to my goal— the hot toddy waiting for me at the bottom of the mountain.

The same principle applies when tackling a big life decision or career shift: you don’t need to have all the answers or even all the skills upfront—just the courage to take the first step.

Why Taking Action Matters

When you’re physically stuck on a freezing ski slope with hot-shot skiers zooming past, you have no choice but to move. But when you’re stuck in the figurative sense—facing an unfulfilling job, a stalled project, or a major life change—it’s easy to freeze in place.

The key to breaking loose? Take action in small, low-risk increments. These manageable steps not only build momentum but also chip away at the stress and anxiety that come with feeling stuck.

How to get unstuck? Here are five steps that can help you jump start the process.

Step One: Get Out of Your Head and Onto the Page

Although there are a lot of great apps for note taking, mind-mapping, and the like, research shows that putting something on paper is often more meaningful and memorable.  Simply pick up a notebook and write out what it is you hope to accomplish: that is, your goal.

Step Two: Make it SMART

Run your goal through the SMART test. Writing your responses to these questions in your notebook can help bring your ideas to life.

• Is it Specific?

• Is it Meaningful to you?

• Is it Achievable given your current circumstances?

• Is it Realistic?

• Is it Time-bound, with a clearly defined deadline?

Step Three: Break It Down

List every action step you can think of, starting with the smallest one. Tiny steps add up. Whether there are five or fifty, writing them down gives you a roadmap. Each step leads you closer to your goal.

Step Four:  Schedule It

Commit to your steps by scheduling them. Apps like Todoist can help you stay on track by sending reminders and giving you that satisfying “pop” when you check something off. Prefer analog? Keep a running list in your notebook. The method doesn’t matter—what counts is consistency.

Step Five: Celebrate Your Wins

Progress deserves recognition! After completing a major step—or a cluster of smaller ones—reward yourself. Whether it’s indulging in your favorite treat, going for a walk, diving into a good book, or sharing the moment with an accountability partner, celebrate what you’ve achieved.

Just Starting Changes Everything

Here’s the beauty of taking action: it often brings unexpected clarity. Goals can evolve as you learn and grow, and that’s perfectly normal. As you continue to move forward, the process itself becomes a source of insight and empowerment.

It’s also important to understand that while you have control over your actions, the outcome may not always be under your direct control. Those unexpected turns are often a source of clarity, moving you closer to a life that is personally authentic, sustainable, and meaningful. 

Whether you’re staring down a treacherous ski slope, contemplating a career change, or trying to find your way through a knotty problem at work, progress happens when you take that first intentional step.

If you’ve enjoyed this article and would like to stay in the loop for more insights on creating a sustainable, fulfilling, and happy life as a physician, sign up for my newsletter or reach out on my website. I’d love to hear from you.

And if you’d like to schedule a complimentary coaching discovery session, click the button below.

References:

Masicampo, E. J., & Baumeister, R. F. (2011). Consider it done! Plan making can eliminate the cognitive effects of unfulfilled goals. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 101(4), 667–683.

Umejima, K. et al. (2021). Paper notebooks vs mobile devices: Brain activation differences during memory retrieval. Front. Behav. Neurosci., 15. 1-11.

Strategies for Success for New Physicians in Outpatient Care

If you’re just getting started in practice, or starting over in a new job, it’s important to set yourself up for success right from the start.  This is true whether your career path is in academics or the private sector. 

Starting out on the right foot is not as difficult or mysterious as it might seem, but it can make all the difference to both your professional trajectory and your personal fulfillment.

In this article, we’ll focus on five key areas that will help you provide the best care while managing the demands of a growing practice. Developing these strategies early on can improve both patient outcomes and your own well-being.

1. Master Time Management and Efficiency

Let’s be honest. Managing a busy outpatient schedule without sacrificing the quality of care can seem daunting. Physicians often find themselves juggling patient visits, charting, and administrative duties without a definite plan. This can easily lead to inefficiencies.

If your position includes hospital work, supervising, or teaching responsibilities, these added challenges can snowball very quickly. But taking shortcuts only leads to more complications and frustration for both you and your patients.

Your strategy for success: Developing effective time management skills is crucial. Prioritizing tasks, utilizing electronic health record (EHR) templates, and implementing workflows that streamline documentation can save you valuable time.  

Task-batching and time blocking are crucial skills that will serve you well. Try to limit the amount of time you spend returning to unfinished tasks by getting them completed as soon as possible.  

Think about putting in a few hours up front to set up your chart management systems, including smart phrases and, where feasible, appropriate AI integration. Don’t be afraid to create a workflow to delegate simple tasks when it’s appropriate. When you organize your day efficiently, you will not only reduce after-hours work, but you’ll also improve patient care and satisfaction.

2. Cultivate Work-Life Balance

It’s become normal and sometimes even expected that your working day will bleed into your personal time. In the current environment, this often morphs from a slow drip to a frank hemorrhage.  This lack of control not only impacts you and your family, but ultimately can have a negative impact on your patient care.

Maintaining clear boundaries between your professional world and your personal life is essential to avoid burnout. The importance of your own well-being cannot be overstated. When you’re burned out, you’re more likely to make mistakes that impact your patients’ lives

Your strategy for success: Consider setting aside specific times for charting and answering messages, so you can limit after-hours communication. This is a technique known as task batching. By grouping a chunk of similar tasks together, you’ll achieve greater focus and get more done.

Don’t overlook your own well-being.  Scheduling time for self-care activities such as exercise or relaxation can help you recharge and maintain a sustainable work-life balance.

If there is a hobby or activity that you’ve been yearning to try, simply get started. Don’t expect perfection or even competency. Just do it for the joy of trying something new.

3. Build Strong Patient Communication and Relationships

Building strong relationships with your patients is key to delivering effective care. When patients trust you, you will deliver your care more efficiently, and you’re likely to see fewer after-hours messages and questions.

Your patients want to feel seen, heard, and cared for. However, developing this rapport can be challenging when time is limited, and managing patient expectations or difficult conversations can often feel overwhelming, especially for new physicians.

Your strategy for success: First, keep your charts current. When you go into the office visit armed with accurate and up-to-date information, your patients will feel more confident that they are in good hands.

Setting expectations early is important when managing difficult situations, especially when dealing with complex diagnoses or treatment plans. But having the data at hand and a plan in place is not always enough.

Of equal importance, your communication style matters. Listening actively, showing empathy, and offering clear explanations can improve the experience for your patient and inspire greater confidence in your care.

4. Sharpen Your Clinical Decision-Making Skills

As a physician, making sound clinical decisions quickly and confidently is part of the job. Dealing with the more complex cases can be challenging, especially when you’re still building your clinical experience.

In training, you’re continuously learning, but it’s important to remember that you’re never done. To be a doctor is to be a perpetual student. For optimal patient care as well as your own professional fulfillment, it’s critical to stay up to date.

Your strategy for success:  Staying current with evidence-based guidelines and refining your decision-making process will help you feel more confident when faced with uncertainty. Using decision support tools, collaborating with colleagues, having an excellent referral network, and continually educating yourself on new developments will ensure that you make informed decisions efficiently and wisely.

In addition to maintaining your CME requirements, consider subscribing to a service like JournalWatch, which sends out regular emails summarizing important research from multiple medical journals. Stay curious and engaged.

5. Cultivate Emotional Resilience and Stress Management

Outpatient care can be emotionally demanding, and it’s common for physicians to experience stress or compassion fatigue. To be clear, the role of healthcare systems cannot be overstated. If your situation seems toxic, it might be reasonable to look for other opportunities that are a better fit.  But often there are constructive and sustainable ways to improve the status quo.

Burnout continues to impact nearly half of all physicians. Those in outpatient care are disproportionately affected. Burnout and compassion fatigue are not your fault, but if you find yourself falling into a funk, it’s important to seek help.

More and more healthcare systems are offering coaching and other resources. When possible, take full advantage of those opportunities, or find your own. To ensure long-term success, it’s essential to build resilience and develop ways to manage the pressures of the profession. 

Your strategy for success: Incorporating stress-reducing strategies into your daily routine—such as good nutrition, mindfulness meditation, and regular physical activity—can help you manage the emotional demands of the job.

Building a support system of colleagues, friends, and family can also provide an outlet for discussing challenges and staying emotionally balanced.

Take advantage of coaching and other services that might be offered through your institution or professional groups. Or seek out a coach that specializes in physician burnout and related issues. If you are experiencing depression or other mental health challenges, contact a mental health professional. You deserve to feel well, happy, and invigorated.

Conclusion

Starting and maintaining your career in outpatient care comes with its own set of challenges, but by focusing on these five key strategies, you can build a strong foundation for success.

Mastering time management, improving patient communication, and developing emotional resilience will not only enhance your professional satisfaction but also improve the quality of care you provide.

By investing in your personal growth and well-being, you can thrive as a physician while maintaining a balanced and rewarding lifestyle.

If you’ve enjoyed this article and would like to stay in the loop for more insights on creating a sustainable, fulfilling, and happy life as a physician, sign up for my newsletter or reach out on my website. I’d love to hear from you.

If you’d like to learn more about my coaching practice, you can schedule a complimentary introductory meeting by clicking the link below.