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In the hustle and bustle of clinical work, it's easy to get lost in the chaos and forget what truly matters. We often find ourselves caught up in the hamster wheel of training, pursuing goals and dreams that might not align with our deepest values and desires. Goals and dreams that may be someone else's…that no longer resonate with our dreams for how to live our best life.
This was how I felt when I was stuck and confused in a full-time clinical role – I lacked the energy or time to think about the next step or how to get there.
I wanted clarity on the next steps – desperately longing for someone to tell me what to do.
I wanted to feel more confident about the decisions to make for the next job.
To feel in control of my destiny instead of just waiting for things to improve.
I didn’t want to worry that I was wasting time on a predefined route that didn’t feel ‘right.’
I wanted to maximize the potential of a career in medicine- to make an impact and leave a legacy.
Not to choose just a job but a sustainable career path – one where I felt authentic and passionate.
And to have an outstanding work-life balance!
But I started to wonder if this was even possible!
I feared that I might regret my decision…
I had spent so many years to get where they are- all the exams and money spent on training.
What if I could not be as financially stable as my current role?
I knew I needed to do something but needed more time, guidance, or space to think about it.
But I realized that if I didn’t act now, I would be in the same position in 6 months…a year…with even less energy and time than before.
And no further towards the life I dreamed of – Something had to shift.
I needed to do something to change my life and stop waiting for things to change around me-
“Maybe it will be better when I am a reg – maybe better in a different hospital – maybe better when I am a consultant”.
SO….
I consciously made purposeful space and time to do my best thinking. Working out a strategy to regain clarity on what a flexible career outside full-time clinical medicine looked like –
To build my confidence to do medicine differently and share my passions with the world….
And at the same time recharge and reenergize so I could be healthy and happy while I made my next steps.
To have a successful transition and make a sustainable change.
So I could feel free, in control, in balance, and living my best life.
AND IT WORKED…So much so that I knew I had to share this with other people….here are a few tips to help you to get there too!
1. Self-reflection
One of the most valuable exercises you can undertake in your personal and professional journey is self-reflection. Taking the time to think and introspect allows you to delve into your inner world and gain a deeper understanding of yourself. This self-awareness is the first step in gaining clarity on your values, vision, and goals for your career…and life.
Consider the personal journey of many successful individuals. They often mention a pivotal moment when they took a step back and evaluated their life choices. For example, when you understand your values, you start to see why you are drawn to certain environments and repelled by others. This clarity helps you make better decisions about the people you surround yourself with and the career paths you choose.
In my own experience, I found that understanding my values was a crucial turning point in my career transition. Suddenly, everything became clearer. I realised why I thrived in certain work environments and why I struggled in others. This self-awareness enabled me to make more intentional choices in my career and life.
2. Visualise success
Once you've gained clarity on your values, it's time to visualise your future self. What do you want your career and life to look like? Having a clear vision of your desired destination is essential for setting meaningful goals and making purposeful decisions.
Imagine standing at a crossroads in your career. Without a vision, you might choose a path based on external pressures or societal expectations. But when you take the time to think about your future self, you gain greater clarity on where you want to head. Your vision becomes a guiding light, helping you make choices that align with your values and lead you toward your goals.
3. Take action
Clarity is not just about understanding your values and creating a vision; it's also a catalyst for action. When you have a clear sense of what you want to achieve and why it matters to you, you're more motivated and focused.
Think of clarity as the fuel that powers your actions. It propels you forward, helping you make decisions with confidence and conviction. It's the force that keeps you committed to your goals even when challenges arise. Remember that clarity is not a one-time achievement; it's an ongoing journey of self-discovery and growth. So, take that crucial step back, reflect on what truly matters to you, and let clarity be your compass on your journey to a more fulfilling life and career.
If you are struggling to make time for yourself and want to learn how to get a better work-life balance, especially when you feel short on time, come and join the next Reset Your Medical Career Workshop! Click the link to learn more and to register https://www.resilienceyoga.fr/resetyourcareerworkshop
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