Fall signals a change in season, an opportunity to begin again. It is a season that I really love. The weather is a nice mix of sun and cool. By now the children have settled into their school routines as teachers set the level of expectations they have for the academic year.
What level of expectations have you set for yourself as you round out the last quarter of 2013? As doctors, nurses, and medical professionals we focus on the success of others. With each patient encounter we set goals in the form of the treatment plan. We prescribe medications tailored specifically for the diagnosis. We may prescribe rest, a leave of absence from work, or a certain meal plan, all with the intent to yield the best result for our patients. We schedule follow up visits to assess progress along they way.
Behind the scenes is the business of medicine. There is record keeping and bookkeeping to track the progress of the business as well as the patients’ progress. There are continuing education experiences to maintain certification and have patients see us as the solution to their medical needs.
So the question is, “Have you been this meticulous with bridging the gap between your career in healthcare and your life goals?” Have they been given the same focus and attention as the professional areas of your life? Is your health where you wanted it to be by this time this year? Did you keep your resolution to make time for family and other priorities?
As we round out 2013, today is a good time to take an inventory of what you can do that will take you closer to your goals. To get started allot 15 minutes a day for each and see your focus and attention shift towards what you truly desire in life.
1. As your day draws to a close, map out the agenda for the following day. Factor in things like your commute to work, time for a lunch break, and any errands you may have. When you look at this list, ask yourself, “What are priorities that only you can complete?” This will include seeing your panel of patients, making follow up patient calls, etc. “What can you delegate to another person? Are there activities in your day that can and should be performed by another member of the medical team, so that you can stay on schedule and use your time most efficiently? Finally, what are the time wasters in your schedule?”
2. Revisit your goals. Rather than simply writing out a list of what you wish to accomplish, evaluate how you feel about each goal. Is it really something you desire and are willing to take action on today? Or is that goal a desire of the past? If there are goals that you are not emotionally attached to, then release them so you can free up the space to really create and connect to your goals of today.
3. Receive inspiration and support daily. This may be in the form of reading an inspirational book, listening to music that uplifts you, or recharging your batteries with a network of colleagues that share similar interests. After a full day of caring for your patients and meeting their needs, make time for yourself. Rejuvenating yourself is crucial to being the best doctor, nurse, or medical professional you can be for your patients, your family, and yourself.
