by Diane W. Shannon | Oct 6, 2022 | Identity, Thriving
Like most toddlers on their first day of preschool, I don’t like uncertainty. In fact, I tend to flee from it. A pending lab test that might be serious. Whether I’ll get Covid and be unable to attend that upcoming family event. If I should stay or leave my current job... 
by Diane W. Shannon | Jun 30, 2022 | Burnout, Coaching, Thriving
Sometimes we just need to focus on finding a basecamp. Climbers whose goal is scaling Mount Everest first spend time in one of two basecamps. They don’t expect to hop from the foothills to the summit. They recognize that they will be healthier and have a been chance... 
by Diane W. Shannon | Jun 2, 2022 | Perfectionism, Thriving
Being detail-oriented, conscientious, and self-critical helped me make it through the hoops required to become a physician. But I’ve learned in the years since that perfectionism and being highly focused on achievement can get in the way of living life to the fullest.... 
by Diane W. Shannon | May 6, 2022 | Identity, Thriving
It is so easy to lose sight of your dreams. Remember the passion that once kindled your interest in your field, or a particular hobby, or in mastering a sport or skill? For me, and for many of the physicians I’ve worked with, it’s not so much about forgetting a dream... 
by Diane W. Shannon | Apr 12, 2022 | Burnout, Thriving, Understanding Burnout
Sam and I, Falmouth, Winter 2022 Our profession often sends the message that we are invincible heroes. Here’s my vulnerable and honest admission: I lapped that up. There was something so seductive about denying pesky human requirements, like sleep, regular exercise,... 
by Diane W. Shannon | Mar 7, 2022 | Burnout, Thriving
Here’s what I wish I had thought when in training and practice: “Hey, wait a minute. Hold on here. I deserve a life!” I wish I had questioned whether all that self-sacrifice was necessary, healthy, and a good long-term strategy. Instead, I put my head down, pushed... 