An earlier version of this post appeared on this website in March, 2025
Making room for the things that matter to you outside of medicine can be difficult when work consumes so much of your time and attention. Yet those interests and relationships can help sustain a fulfilling life both within and outside of your role in medical practice.
Last year, I joined Dr. Sarah Smith on her podcast, Sustainable Clinical Medicine with The Charting Coach, to discuss values, boundaries, and the possibilities that emerge when physicians make space for interests and priorities beyond their professional roles.
Dr. Smith is an inspiring Family Medicine physician who helps physicians manage their charting workload and reclaim their time. Her personal story of transformation is inspiring. The podcast, which explores the range of challenges to building a sustainable and satisfying career in healthcare, is a great addition to your listening list.
Here are three key takeaways from our conversation:
🔑Know what matters to you as an individual: Clarifying your core values can help you make more intentional choices about your work and personal life.
🔑Say no to make room for more: Setting boundaries creates time for the people, activities, and interests that bring you joy and fulfillment.
🔑Give yourself permission to explore: Pursuing your interests beyond medicine can open new possibilities and enrich your life while supporting your work as a physician.