Listen to this episode
On this episode
We’re all looking for ways to build a sustainable career as life shifts and changes. It can be tough, especially when we’re feeling stuck or unsure about our next steps. But there’s hope. By taking time to reflect and plan, we can navigate our careers in a way that aligns with our strengths and passions.
The first step is to carve out a little time and space to think about our current situation. We need to evaluate our strengths and what truly brings us joy in our work. Once we have that clarity, we can start considering small changes that align more with these strengths.
One important action is to have open conversations with our employers about our needs and desires. We might be surprised at their willingness to accommodate if they understand our value and commitment. Seeking support from peers or mentors who encourage positive action can also provide the motivation we need.
Continuing to work in a way that’s not fulfilling can lead to burnout and dissatisfaction. We might feel trapped and unable to give our best, which ultimately affects our personal well-being and professional performance.
But there are small steps you can take today to help you craft a work life that’s more satisfying and sustainable. Start by taking a moment to think about what you truly want from your career, and reach out to a trusted friend or mentor to discuss your next steps.
Show links
More episodes of You Are Not a Frog:
- Beware Your Kindest Colleagues – Episode 212
- Crafting a Career That Works – Episode 238
- Job Crafting for Happiness – Episode 144
About the guests
Lois is a medical careers expert, working in this field with students at Oxford University Medical School, doctors in training, and with doctors in the later stages of their career. She worked as an emergency medicine consultant for nearly two decades, and is a qualified coach and mediator.
Follow Dr Lois Brand
Reasons to listen
- For practical strategies in crafting a sustainable and fulfilling medical career amid rapid technological and knowledge changes
- Learn how small tweaks in career plans can lead to increased job satisfaction and personal fulfilment.
- Understand the importance of self-awareness and leveraging personal strengths for career development and longevity.
Episode highlights
The advantage of experience
Normalise asking for help
Finding new ways to make your career sustainable
Planning a sabbatical
The case for cherrypicking
Getting out of victim mode
The GROW model
The upper limit problem
Make time to plan your career
Lois’ three top tips
Rachel’s top tips
Episode transcript
[00:00:00] Rachel: As life shifts and changes, the things we want and the things we want from our career change too. The goals we had on the things we had some energy full when we were younger aren’t necessarily the same now. So take a moment to think about your career. Is it giving you what you want or is it asking too much? Are you playing to your strengths or simply doing, what’s been expected of you for years? [00:00:23] Rachel: This week, I’m talking to Dr. Lois Brand. She regularly runs group workshops for healthcare professionals to help…
