When it comes to developing healthy habits, there's no one-size-fits-all approach. What works for one person may not work for another. However, certain habits are particularly effective, when working as a physician. These are what we refer to as high-performance habits.
Being a physician is one of the most challenging jobs out there. I know this because I am one. It takes many years of schooling to become a physician. But, it takes even more than that. It takes dedication, determination, and constant effort to maintain the high standards set by the medical profession.
There are a few key characteristics that all high-performance habits share. First, they're focused on results. That is, they're designed to help you achieve a specific goal. Second, they're repeatable. They're not past actions that you only do once in a while. Instead, they're habits you can (and should) repeat regularly.
Finally, high-performance habits are aligned with your values. In other words, they're in line with what you believe is essential to you. This is critical because it will motivate you to stick with the habit long-term.
So, why is this important? Developing high-performance habits can help you in all areas of your life. From your relationships to your professional success, healthy habits are the key to achieving your goals and reaching your potential.
Being a physician is one of the most demanding and challenging jobs. You are constantly responsible for other people's lives, and you can never let your guard down. Even when you are off duty, you are always on call if one of your patients needs you. This can make it very difficult to maintain a healthy work-life balance. It is not uncommon for physicians to miss important family events or have to cancel vacation plans at the last minute. However, it is essential to remember that you cannot let your work life consume you. You need to make time for yourself and your loved ones or burn out quickly. High-performing physicians know how to juggle their work and personal lives without sacrificing their well-being. They have mastered the art of time management and prioritize their time wisely. As a result, they can lead happy and fulfilling lives, both professionally and personally.
Brendon Burchard is a world-renowned speaker, coach, and author who has dedicated his life to helping people achieve their highest potential. He is the founder of High-Performance Academy, a leading training program for high achievers, and his work has been featured in Forbes, Time, Inc., and SUCCESS magazine. In addition, he identified six high-performance habits. Then, I added the 7th high-performing habit, which I will mention last.
1.Seeks clarity
As a physician, clarity is essential. You are constantly faced with potentially life-threatening situations and must be able to maintain a calm face and demeanor. Patients need your strength to guide them through difficult times. However, there are times when showing emotions is acceptable, and your patients may appreciate your humanity. For example, when a patient is diagnosed with a terminal illness, you may need to show empathy and compassion. In these cases, being clear and concise is essential, but so is being human. Your patients need to know that you understand their situation and care about them as a person, not just a patient. Clarity is essential in all aspects of your job as a physician, but so are empathy and compassion.
High-performing individuals typically have a great deal of clarity in their lives. They know exactly what they want to achieve, and they are very intentional in their actions and emotions. Each day is meaningful to them, and they are constantly seeking ways to improve. So why is clarity so important?
Well, first of all, it gives you a sense of purpose. When you know what you want to achieve, you are more likely to be motivated and driven to succeed. In addition, clarity helps you focus your energies on the most important things to you. First, it allows you to say "no" to distractions and stay focused on your goals. Finally, clarity gives you a sense of peace and calm. When you know what you want out of life, you are less likely to feel anxious or stressed about the future. You can live each day with intention and purpose, which is an exciting thing.
2. Generate energy
As a high-performing physician, generating energy is key to success. High performers know how to recharge their batteries, whether through exercise, eating a nutritious diet, or winding down at the end of the day. But why is generating energy so important?
In medical school and residency, you might have heard people brag about how long they have been awake or last used the bathroom. In the long term, this isn't healthy, and high-performing doctors make choices to keep their energy up---including sleep. When you are well rested, you can think more clearly, make better decisions, and have more stamina. You are also less likely to get sick.
To be a high-performing physician, you need to make sure that you are taking care of yourself and generating enough energy to meet the demands of your job. By making intelligent choices about recharging your batteries, you can set yourself up for success.
As a high performer, you know that generating energy is key to success. High performers know how to recharge their batteries, whether through exercise, eating a nutritious diet, or winding down at the end of the day. But why is generating energy so important?
For one, high performers are constantly on the go; whether in their personal or professional life, they regularly meet new people, try new things, and push themselves to the limit. As a result, they need a lot of energy to keep up with their busy schedules. Without it, they would quickly burn out.
In addition, high-performing physicians know that they need to be at the top of their game. Unfortunately, they can't afford to let their energy levels dip, as it could impact their performance.
So next time you're feeling run down, remember why it's essential to generate energy. It may just be the key to your success.
3. Raise necessity
We all know high performers who always seem to be on their game. They meet their deadlines, live a service life, and always seem focused and positive. But what is the secret to their success? One crucial factor is that they have a strong sense of necessity. In other words, they are emotionally committed to excellence. They know why they are doing what they are doing, and this gives them the motivation to keep going even when things get tough. When negative thoughts pop up, they can manage their emotions and stay top of their game. As a result, they can achieve great things. So if you want to be a high performer, make sure you have a strong sense of necessity. It will make all the difference in your ability to succeed.
4. Increased productivity
High-performing individuals usually have one thing in common: they are highly productive. They know how to prioritize their time and work on what is most important. Individuals who are not successful tend to avoid specific tasks, even though they know it needs to get done, but because they find it challenging or uncomfortable, they don't prioritize. To increase productivity, they are mindful of things that waste time and actively work on eliminating distractions. Instead, they pay attention to what they're doing and enjoy their day. This single habit can make a huge difference in someone's life. By being productive, high performers can achieve their goals and live happy and successful life.
5. Develop influence
High-performing individuals develop power by caring for others and challenging them to grow. These individuals often act as role models, guides, and mentors, helping those around them to develop a more positive mindset and reach their full potential. Pursuing excellence in all areas of life, they set the tone for those around them and inspire others to strive for greatness. Their genuine care for others, coupled with their consistent pursuit of self-improvement, sets them apart and allows them to develop the trust and respect of those around them. As a result, they can exert a considerable influence over those in their orbit, inspiring them to reach new levels of success.
6. Demonstrate courage
Physicians who demonstrate courage are often the most successful in their careers. They understand that being afraid is part of life, but they also know they can face their fears and conquer them. They have confidence in their abilities to respond to challenges, and they are comfortable with being uncomfortable. These physicians are also willing to take well-calculated risks. This allows them to achieve their goals and provide the best care possible for their patients. Courageous physicians are an inspiration to us all, and they remind us that we can achieve anything we set our minds to. High performers are not afraid to fail because they know that failure is a part of the process of success. They are courageous people who constantly move forward and strive to reach their highest potential.
7. Accountability
The seventh, performance habit, not listed by Brendon Burchard, is a habit that I found was instrumental in helping me get to the next level. Most people understand the importance of accountability in achieving success. Whether in our personal lives or our professional careers, we all need someone to hold us accountable and push us to do our best.
As a high-performing physician, accountability is essential to your success. You know that you need to have systems and people to keep you on track to achieve your goals. Without accountability, it's too easy to get sidetracked and lose focus. That's why you surround yourself with people who will challenge you and hold you accountable. With this support system in place, you can stay focused and reach your goals.
One of the most important aspects of accountability is setting realistic goals. You need to be clear about what you want to achieve and set deadlines for yourself. This way, you'll have a concrete plan to follow, and you'll be able to track your progress. Without this level of accountability, it would be all too easy to get sidetracked and give up on your goals.
Another critical aspect of accountability is having someone to check in with regularly. This could be a mentor, a coach, or even just a friend or family member who knows what you're working towards. Having someone to confide in will help you stay motivated and on track, especially someone who has more experience than you. They can offer words of encouragement when you're struggling, and they can help hold you accountable when you start to veer off course.
So, if you're ready to start making things happen, incorporate these seven habits into your daily routine.