Love While Doctoring
Happy Valentine's Day to all the amazing women physicians out there! As a woman physician, you face unique challenges when it comes to relationships and finding true love. Your demanding career often takes up a significant amount of your time, leaving little room for personal life and relationships. Moreover, as caretakers at work, we sometimes are quick to assume this role at home in all areas. We often need to learn how to create space for our partners to show up and shoulder more of the mental, emotional and physical workload.
But despite these challenges, it is important to remember that you deserve love and happiness just as much as anyone else. Here are some tips to help you navigate your relationships and find the love you deserve:
Prioritize rest and personal time. Medicine is emotionally and physically exhausting. With the time crutch of working, we often feel that we can’t prioritize our own time to rest, recover, play and grow. Remember, you cannot pour from an empty cup!
Know your boundaries: You are the only person who truly knows what works for you in a relationship. Trust your instincts and set clear boundaries for what you are and are not willing to accept. Don't compromise your values or settle for less than what you deserve.
Be honest about your lifestyle: When entering a relationship, it's important to be upfront about the demands of your career. Your partner should understand that your work will always be a significant part of your life and that there will be times when you must put in long hours.
Find a true partner: Seek out a partner who is supportive, understanding, and willing to share the load. Someone who is truly invested in your life and will show up for you emotionally, physically, financially, and organizationally.
Let go of the idea of a "50/50" relationship: Medicine is a demanding field, and there will be times when your work takes up most of your time and energy. Instead, find a partner who is willing to adapt and support you through the ups and downs.
Don't be afraid to walk away: If a relationship is not working, it's okay to walk away. Trust yourself and your instincts, and don't feel like you owe anyone an explanation. Your personal life and happiness should always come first.
Embrace the journey: Your journey towards love and happiness is unique to you, and it may have its ups and downs. But know that there can also be amazing moments along the way, and that you will grow and learn from your experiences.
In conclusion, as a woman physician, you deserve love and happiness just as much as anyone else. Don't let the demands of your career hold you back. Prioritize rest, know your boundaries, be honest about your lifestyle, find a true partner, and embrace the journey towards love and happiness. Happy Valentine's Day!
To hear more on navigating relationships as a woman physician, listen to Dr. Andrea Austin’s episode on The Revitalizing Doctor “On Love and Divorce While Doctoring” – wherever you stream!