I sincerely believe that satisfied, fulfilled physicians provide the best care for their patients. The question is, how do we ensure our happiness and job satisfaction? Here are a few of the habits that I have formed to help me maintain joy when practicing medicine.
There are numerous studies that show we feel better and are more productive if we take more breaks. There are various ways of doing this without sacrificing the number of daily patient visits. Consider scheduling three 30 minute breaks a day instead of a longer lunch. Or starting your day a little earlier to allow for breaks later in the day.
Habits that take only a few minutes a day can be invigorating and healing to the soul. Meditation, journaling and exercise are just a few options. These methods give you the opportunity to transform your thoughts from the negative to the positive. I write in a gratitude journal daily, even if I’m thankful for something small. It helps keep my perspective.
Exercise is another way to take a break from the stressors of daily life. One misconception is that you have to take an hour to exercise, but you can break it up into shorter intervals because it is the cumulative effect that is beneficial.
When we are busy and stressed, we can tend to isolate ourselves away from our support system(s). Stay active with your family, friends and/or your religious institution. Activities away from the office and hospital help to maintain balance and decrease stress.
Stay in the present and savor the moment. When you are away from work, try not to think about patients. It’s not easy, but make a conscious effort to do so.
Likewise, when you are with a patient, give 100% of your attention to that patient. With technologic advances and the need to multitask, we don’t listen well. The physician who listens is a better diagnostician and will always have loyal patients.
You may ask how being mindful decreases stress and improves happiness. Being able to live in the moment and not incorporate the future or the past into our thoughts allows you to fully experience the emotions of that moment. It helps you savor the pleasures in life and keeps you engaged. You form deeper connections to others.
I hope you have found a tip or two that you can incorporate in your own life. Stay connected and send me your comments. Until next time, I wish you much joy!
