Jarrod Shapiro, DPM Practice Perfect Editor Assistant Professor, Dept. of Podiatric Medicine, Surgery & Biomechanics College of Podiatric Medicine Western University of Health Sciences, St, Pomona, CA

Cultivating Other Interests To Reduce Burnout

For most healthcare workers, much less physicians, our career is a dominant part of life. Between family and work, most of us have two full time jobs with little time for anything else. Whether it's the daily grind of patient care – with the necessity for ever-increasing volumes – or the demands of family, attaining balance is almost impossible. We live very fast-paced lives.

Unfortunately, as full as our lives are, we're still human, and the effects of stress and overwork can have significant ramifications, both for ourselves and our patients. A survey of 7905 American surgeons found that major medical errors reported by these physicians was strongly related to their level of burnout and mental quality of life ⁽¹⁾.

It benefits neither the doctor nor his or her patients to be under excessive stress. But with our busy lives, how do we balance work and our own health?

Many methods exist, such as mindfulness-based meditation, exercise, yoga, appropriate diet, and other physical techniques. Managing the schedule efficiently to prevent unnecessary extra work is also important. Prioritizing the most important tasks and postponing the unnecessary will additionally decrease demands on time.

		Tonight's Premier Lecture is Dermatological Manifestations in the Diabetic Patient Tracey Vlahovic, DPM

The benefits of a balanced approach for physicians have been well documented. A multivariate analysis of 7197 American surgeons found surgeons who focused on what was important in life, kept an optimistic outlook, and maintained a balanced life philosophy were less likely to become burned out ⁽²⁾.

In addition to these important methods, one may also consider cultivating interests outside of work. Taking up a hobby or other activity provides a break in the weekly schedule. This is not just a physical break but, more importantly, a mental one. This allows us to "reset", which will freshen the mind and allow us to better handle our professional responsibilities.

Consider taking up a sport. When I was practicing in Oregon, I took martial arts classes two evenings per week, which I found highly valuable for reducing stress.

Alternatively, starting a new hobby may be beneficial. Or perhaps restarting an old one that you may have abandoned at some point. Maybe it's time to start rebuilding that classic car in the garage or taking up bungee jumping (for those much more adventurous than me!). Maybe you've always wanted to do underwater basket weaving? Whatever floats your boat. For those interested in more formal intellectual pursuits, consider utilizing one of the many online free education options such as iTunes U or any of a number of applications for tablet PC's.

Until some genius comes along and figures out a way to make the day longer or the work week shorter, it'll always be a challenge to find the extra time to pursue other interests. But with the right motivation (your health, of course, is most important) you'll find that one activity that enriches your life further and reduces your chances of burnout.

What do you like to do to reduce stress and burnout? Do you have a hobby or activity that enriches your life? Write in with your thoughts. Best wishes.

Best wishes.

Jarrod Shapiro, DPM
PRESENT Practice Perfect Editor
[email protected]

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