Ending Physician Overwhelm

Self-Compassion in Trying Times

Megan Melo, Physician and Life Coach Episode 160

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Today’s topic—self-compassion—feels especially timely. I’ve been navigating my own challenging season recently, and I wanted to share some reflections and tools that have been helping me, in the hope they’ll resonate with you too.

In this episode, we discuss:

  • The January Blues: How the transition into the new year often brings a lull after the holidays, leaving many of us grappling with difficult emotions.
  • The Power of Self-Compassion: Why meeting ourselves with kindness, mindfulness, and an understanding of shared humanity can build true resilience, especially during tough times.
  • Recognizing Overwhelm: The importance of naming and processing emotions rather than over-identifying with or numbing out from them.

A key takeaway is that self-compassion isn’t about glossing over challenges; it’s about facing them with gentleness, clarity, and intention. Drawing from Dr. Kristin Neff’s framework of self-kindness, mindfulness, and common humanity, we'll talk about ways to reconnect with yourself and regain a sense of agency, even when the world feels chaotic.

Whether you’re experiencing a brief season of stress or something more prolonged, this episode is a reminder that your emotions matter and that prioritizing your own care is not only okay—it’s essential.

Resources Mentioned:

  • Dr. Kristin Neff’s work on self-compassion
  • Journaling techniques, including thought downloads
  • The Lazy Genius podcast by Kendra Adachi

As always, I appreciate you tuning in. Take care of yourself this week, and remember, leaning into self-compassion is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself.

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.

If this episode resonates with you, please share it with a colleague who might need to hear it. Your support means the world.

A Birthday Wish:
My birthday was January 12th! The best gift you could give me? Leave a rating, write a review, or share this podcast with someone who needs it. Let’s keep growing this community of women physicians who are ready to heal, grow, and thrive.

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To learn more about my coaching practice and group offerings, head over to www.healthierforgood.com. I help Physicians and Allied Health Professional women to let go of toxic perfectionist and people-pleasing habits that leave them frustrated and exhausted. If you are ready to learn skills that help you set boundaries and prioritize yourself, without becoming a cynical a-hole, come work with me.

Want to contact me directly?
Email: megan@healthierforgood.com

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@MeganMeloMD