What do you tell yourself “I just need to learn more about…”
Apr 20, 2024
We are learners.
Before you went to medical school, you may not have imagined how you would ever be able to learn medicine. The analogy “drinking from the fire hose” is apropos. AND, you were even told that half of what you learned would be considered wrong within 5 years of learning it.
But do you know what you got really good at?
Learning.
I like to joke that I am an expert test taker.
I, like you probably, can absolutely learn enough to do well enough on a test.
But there is a big difference between learning and doing.
I can read all day about central line placement; and I suppose, in a pinch, if someone was dying, and I was their only option, and that would somehow save them, I could do it. But I’ve never done one. Reading about it will never make me good at it, or expert at it.
Actually placing a central line, over and over again, is the only thing that would make me an expert.
Learning, reading, reciting details and facts; these all have their place. But it’s just not the same as the muscle memory, experiencing complications and how to respond, encountering different anatomy, etc.
Why does this matter?
Because we can sometimes be such good learners that we think we don’t need to practice. Or we think we should be good at something because we have learned it. Or we feel that more reading, more research, another certification, etc will replace practice.
Sometimes you just have to get out of your head and go for it.
Close your charts as you go
Practice saying no
Drink water and use the bathroom when you need too
Set boundaries
Accept the discomfort of all of these things as normal. Learning won’t remove the discomfort. Knowing the “right” things doesn’t mean you won’t have challenging feelings, AND having challenging feelings doesn’t mean anything is wrong.
Doing new things is uncomfortable
And eventually, those things, probably become more comfortable, but there will be something else new to do, try or practice and that will be uncomfortable.
And that’s all just fine.
Hi There!
I'm Megan. I'm a Physician and a Life Coach and a Mom. I created this blog to help other Physicians and Physician-Moms learn more about why they feel exhausted, burned-out and overwhelmed, and how to start to make changes. I hope that you enjoy what you read, and that it helps you along your journey. And hey, if you want to talk about coaching with me, I'm here for that too! I offer a free 1:1 call to see if we are a good fit. Click the button below to register today.
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