Pump the brakes on your week and take 10 minutes to make your life as a surgeon just a little better…
Jeff welcomes to the podcast board-certified psychiatrist and performance coach, Ryan Davis, MD.
Ryan works with elite athletes and high-achieving professionals, most of whom are type A go-getters. While it’s a personality type that can take you far, it doesn’t always lead to a balanced life. Life balance is a bit of a cliche – it’s something we talk about a lot, but not attainable for many of us, and not one we strive to achieve.
One way to think about balancing priorities is like a tripod made up of three key components: self-care, career, and relationships. While these components may differ from person to person, they often represent the pillars of a fulfilling life. As a thought experiment, imagine forming a tripod with your thumb, index finger, and middle finger, connected by a rubber band. When you pull on one finger—putting more time and energy into that area—you increase the tension on the others. This simple exercise illustrates how shifting focus in one part of life can create strain in the others.
There will always be a give and take among our big three components. When we become unaware and the balance is disrupted, it can lead to burnout.
What steps does Ryan suggest we take to bring awareness to our work-life balance?
- Step 1 – Acknowledge Your Limits – You only have 100% to give. Time, energy, and attention are finite resources — recognizing this is the first step toward making intentional choices.
- Step 2 – Identify Your Key Life Areas – What are the main components of your life that matter most right now? Think beyond the typical categories — list your top 3 to 5 priorities, whether that’s career, family, self-care, community, or personal growth.
- Step 3 – Intentionally Allocate Your Energy – How do you want to divide your 100%? Reflect on how much time and energy you want to devote to each area. Is your current balance aligned with what matters most to you?
Most importantly, PRACTICE your life balancing act!
Ryan Davis, MD
Dr. Davis is a Harvard trained, board-certified psychiatrist with advanced performance coach training. While not at the office Dr. Davis is a 3-time marathon runner, die-hard University of Michigan and Detroit sports enthusiast, and most importantly, an obsessed golfer.
Dr. Davis helps his clients gain insight into their psyche as it relates to their sport and personal life. Dr. Davis’ background allows him to offer unique mental coaching, creating resilient and driven athletes who live more purposeful lives. Dr. Davis provides performance coaching for elite athletes, teams, as well as business executives.