Work/Life Balance

So often, experts tell us what to do and how to do it. But much of the time we already know what the right thing is because we feel it, we sense it.

The organization for which I currently work has a very clear and well-communicated mission ... I respect the organization for not trying to do it all, but instead focusing on a single thing that they think they can do better than anyone else.

Unlike specialties that require completion of fellowship, the specialty of the internist hospitalist doesn't require constant repetition of mechanical procedures and the learning of technological devices. Rather, the internist specializes in the pathophysiology of the sick human being in all its manifestations, many of which can occur simultaneously

Historically, the demands of being a physician have resulted in generations of physicians who were excellent clinicians but lousy spouses and parents. This is a generalization and many physicians, young and old, have been able to balance home and work demands and perform well at both.

The process of medical education and training often required neglect of many other areas including hobbies, interests, and other pursuits. Now that we are doctors, it can be difficult to rediscover long dormant dreams or develop new ones.

Whether the thought of public performance feedback makes you excited or anxious, you may want to check your performance scores. They could be playing a larger role in your work life than you think.

Are your docs overstressed? Join the club. But there are things you can do to help prevent your physicians from becoming jaded.

It’s no wonder that physicians have such a difficult time achieving work-life balance. We were brought up in a system that defies the very concept.

How often are physicians recommending mobile apps to their patients as tools for improving their health?

The more time we save presumably, the more time we have to spend at work or at home. But I’m not sure all of the new technology I’m using will save time, even with increased use.

I have a hard time saying no. I do feel guilty and I wonder at lost opportunities. In my transition from academia to private practice, I’ve had to start saying no a lot more often

Even if your practice has a knack for hiring the best doctors, putting the focus on how well they fit is the best retention strategy.

No matter what work-life balance means for you personally, whether it is a four-day workweek, a Blackberry-free vacation with your family, or a commitment to exercise and eat lunch every day, certain things deserve not only respect but support.

No, this blog post isn’t about some patient who acted like a jerk or about a co-worker I can’t stand. It’s not about a creep; it’s about the creep.

Take our weekly poll to tell us how you maintain a healthy work-life balance.

I don’t always feel the strain of my decisions to travel or to add extra obligations to my already very full schedule. However, when I look across the breakfast table at my spouse and see that he has a hollow-eyed zombie stare and a three-day growth of stubble on his face, I can recognize how my lack of work-life balance equals his fatigue and burnout.

The Curious Case of Mr. C and the Worms

Family physician Kevin Radbill on how passion can triumph over burnout.

I am constantly balancing too much and too little time with my family and my patients. Guess that’s what comes with being a physician and a mom.

Many physicians have discovered that blogging is a great way to build community with others in healthcare, share their opinions and successes, and vent.

Even when you're working nonstop, there's always time for love.

Is staff mediocrity costing you money? Here's how to fix it.

If you’re happy and you know it, and you’re a physician, clap your hands - you’re among good company.

Noteworthy items from February 2011

Anesthesiologist Cheryl Orr, MD, on her struggle to balance the time demands of her work and family, and the tough decisions that led her to a balanced life.