As the head of a department at a major academic medical center, I've observed that many physicians, myself included, aren't naturally inclined to establish firm boundaries. We often find ourselves saying yes to every request, lacking the conditioning to decline. Initially, it was a significant challenge for me to discern and prioritize tasks aligned with my passions and professional objectives.
Setting boundaries felt akin to breaking an addictive pattern. Initially, the compulsion to agree was strong, but with practice, it became easier to say no. It's a cognitive shift that requires conscious effort. I had to remind myself that if a task didn't contribute to my career progression or personal growth, it wasn't worth my time.
Continuously saying yes establishes a precedent, leading to an overwhelming influx of responsibilities. By selectively accepting tasks that align with my goals, I've been able to maintain focus and effectiveness in my role.
Katherine Twombley is a pediatric nephrologist.
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