What my puppy taught me about being a better physican
If you’ve been feeling stuck, creatively numb, or unsure about what’s next, this week's newsletter and blog might be exactly what you need to remember who you are beyond the white coat.
After losing two beloved dogs, my family hesitated to bring another into our lives. Life was changing and we weren't sure a puppy was the right decision.
Cue vacation, a couple umbrella drinks, social media scrolling filled with puppies and Kittle, an 8-pound Tibetan terrier-poodle mix, arrived a few weeks later.
He has a fearless heart, sharp teeth, and zero apologies. He brought more than puppy energy, occasional messes, and sleeples nights to our home.
He brought joy.
“Joy is the simplest form of gratitude.”
– Karl Barth
Coach's Corner: A 5-Minute Joy Audit
Kittle doesn’t need a reason to wag his tail (although treats and calling him a good boy help.) He’s just alive. Present. Curious.
What if you didn’t need a grand reason to smile again?
What if joy came from reclaiming the small, sacred moments you’ve forgotten how to notice?
Don’t overthink it. Give the following exercise a try this week.
- Write down 3 small joys that once lit you up and you are now neglecting. Think about the little things like drinking your morning coffee outside, old playlists, quick chats with friends.
- Schedule ONE this week. Put it on your calendar just like you would a meeting or patient visit.
- What did it change?
Physicians are silently losing the ability to feel joy.
We delay it.
We numb it.
We tell ourselves that we will be happy after the next milestone; that our working is meangingful and that is enough.
It isn't enough.
Joy isn’t “nice to have.” It’s what keeps us human.
With that in mind. I am headed outside to sit in the grass and play with Kittle.
What will you do?
Best,
Ben
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