What Holds Us Up ?

Daily, in our professional and personal lives, we are met with an array of both
positive and negative forces. Professionally we have the opportunity to see patients get better, procedures succeed and experience the gratitude of those we have helped. Personally we see our families grow, celebrate birthdays, weddings and graduations and travel to far off places. On the flip side, professionally we face the patients that can’t be healed, some that litigate rather than thank and the ever growing demands placed on physicians from limitless directions. Personally we experience the loss of friends and family, the troubled economy and our hopes of retirement ever fading. We are consistently met with new duties to fulfill and struggles to endure. The challenge for many physicians is finding ways to cope with thisconglomeration of influences rushing at us. What methods can we use to keep us from becoming unglued as we move forward?
What ultimately hold us up are our values and beliefs and the people that care about and support us. There are six things that I find keep us on track, focused and strong in spite of challengesand adversity:

Faith: we, regardless of our religious background or personal
beliefs, acknowledge a greater power exists that keeps life moving and all of us breathing. This is a well, from which we can draw strength particularly when we are exhausted and weary.

Gratitude and kindness: we all have the ability to give and
receive gratitude and kindness. As we express more of these acts, we receive more in return. These positive forces fill us up.

Commitment: we are dedicated to fulfilling our responsibilities,
not only to the medical profession but to our families and friends, as well as to our dreams and aspirations. We get satisfaction and energy through a job well done.

Belonging: we acknowledge that we are part of a community, profession, family and a universe. Connection creates a sense of belonging which will
always support us.

Loving our work: we must find joy in our work, as it will give us infinite power. We spend endless hours at work and if this time feels worthless, the days will seem pointless. As physicians we are fortunate to have a meaningful occupation. Our ability to make a difference in the lives of our patients is limitless. Realizing it, celebrating it and using it to make a difference makes
us stronger and happier.

Cherishing our loved ones: we should never
underestimate the importance of our “home team.” Our families and close friends fill our lives with love and caring, which we can share not only with them but with the rest of the world.

Remembering these things as you face your
day will reenergize you, and I hope, bring you
renewed happiness.