So Little Control

Description:
Deep breath, as we dive into a reality that so many physicians face daily: navigating situations over which we have so little control. From overwhelming inboxes to unrealistic expectations from patients and systemic challenges in healthcare, we discuss the emotional toll this lack of control can take—and how we can respond with intention and self-compassion.

Together, we explore the complex layers of responsibility, moral injury, and the often misplaced sense of blame we carry as physicians. Most importantly, we talk about reclaiming our power, setting boundaries, and taking care of ourselves in the midst of it all.

What We Cover in This Episode:

1. Acknowledging the Chaos of Healthcare:
   • Stories of systemic dysfunction, from termination without cause to insurance denials.
   • How physicians often bear the brunt of blame for things beyond our control.
2. The Emotional Toll of the Inbox:
   • Why the electronic medical record can be a source of overwhelm and anxiety.
   • How unrealistic patient expectations (and systemic failures) contribute to the pressure.
3. Navigating the Gap Between Responsibility and Control:
   • The tension between having high levels of responsibility and limited power to change outcomes.
   • Recognizing that we are not at fault for everything patients perceive as a problem.
4. Steps to Reclaim Our Agency:
   • Settle the Nervous System: Practices like deep breathing and grounding exercises to reduce fight-or-flight responses.
   • Examine Our Thoughts: Identifying and challenging the beliefs that keep us stuck in overwhelm.
   • Decide How to Proceed: Creating boundaries, delegating tasks, and giving ourselves permission to say no when appropriate.
5. Choosing to Stay in the Game:
   • How acknowledging what we can’t control helps us focus on what we can.
   • Practicing self-care as an essential part of staying in medicine without burnout.

Takeaways:

• We can’t wait for the broken healthcare system to be fixed before we start taking care of ourselves.
• Recognizing what isn’t ours to control allows us to reclaim our energy and focus on what matters.
• It’s okay to flounder as we practice new habits—progress takes time.

Let’s Stay Connected:
This work is challenging, but it’s worth it. If you’re ready to explore how you can reclaim your energy and redefine your path in medicine, I’d love to help.

📧 Reach me at megan@healthierforgood.com
🌐 Visit www.healthierforgood.com to learn about my coaching programs, including Unbound: Women Physicians Reclaiming Their Lives.

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