Dear SurgeonMasters Community,
As the SurgeonMasters Community continues to grow and evolve, I want to invite more voices into our conversations about improving the culture and experience of healthcare professionals. The messages and the messenger both matter, and our strength lies in the collective wisdom of this community.
I’ve had the privilege of knowing Dr. Alan Reznik for many years, and I’m thrilled that he’s now sharing his insights with us. Recently, after listening to some of our upcoming podcasts, Alan shared a thought that resonated with me deeply:
“It is so interesting to hear out loud all the lessons I have learned and relearn all of the time. Believe me, this all sounds great, but I am not that good in real life! I don’t think anyone is.”
Exactly!
Most of us are striving to do our best—navigating the daily challenges of our profession while appreciating our desire for continuous growth. Some of us are very proficient at the certain aspects where we have focused time and energy, whether it’s surgical skills, maintaining quality, or getting certain things done. But almost all of us want to improve in many area of our lives. The challenge? External obstacles and, occasionally, our own internal barriers.
I don’t claim to have it all figured out. I share life improvement strategies on a journey seeking them out for myself, not because I have all the answers. Like Alan, I learn and relearn these lessons every day, incorporating what I can into my process while striving for accountability and authenticity.
My hope is this community can inspire us to be our best selves—and then take actions to get there. Coaching and the coaching mindset have helped me and so many others take meaningful steps toward our goals. Let me share two quick examples:
- Focusing on the Patient’s Goals and Perspectives – Earlier in my career, while very caring, I was focused on the surgery, the x-ray, and avoiding complications. However, I struggled to notice the patient’s concerns and needs, such as impacts on work, family, and play. Now, that focus comes much more naturally. A recent conversation with a colleague reminded me of how far I’ve rebalanced my compassion and pragmatism —and reinforced that this is the physician I truly am.
- Becoming a Better Communicator – Whether it’s speaking at a podium, negotiating with administrators, or navigating personal relationships, I continue to work with coaches to refine how I communicate my perspectives and needs. Coaching helps me bridge the gap between who I am today and who I aspire to be.
I would love to inspire more voices, more perspectives, and more positive change in our profession. You don’t have to have it all figured out to contribute. Share a life improvement strategy, share your passion for helping fellow physicians, or simply be part of a movement that’s about improving ourselves, our culture, and our careers.
What’s one thing you’ve learned—or relearned—lately? Many physicians would love to hear about it.
As always, find the latest resources from the community below.
