Break Free from Negativity: How Physician and Executive Moms Can Overcome Setbacks and Thrive
Nov 12, 2024
Let’s be real. As physician and executive moms, we’ve got more on our plates than most people can even imagine. Between the boardroom and the exam room, to the dining room and the classroom, it’s like we’re living in a never-ending juggling act. And somehow, we’re supposed to do it all with a smile on our face—while looking like we’ve got it all together.
Spoiler alert: We don’t always have it together. And that’s okay.
What isn’t okay is when we let setbacks—big or small—keep us from thriving. Whether it’s drowning in student loan debt, managing a family emergency, or feeling trapped in a routine that no longer serves you, we’re all tempted to use life’s curveballs as reasons to slow down or even give up.
But here’s the truth: You’re stronger than that. And the key to breaking free from these setbacks is recognizing when they’re holding you back—and then pushing through them. So today, we’re going to break down how you can overcome these common barriers and start thriving again, in your career and in life.
1. Letting Negative Experiences Hold You Back
Ever catch yourself saying, “This is too hard, I just can’t deal”? We’ve all been there. Life throws us some serious challenges. Maybe it’s the mountain of medical school debt that keeps growing, or your business hit a roadblock you didn’t see coming. Or maybe one of your kids got sick just when you were getting into a work rhythm.
Listen, it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. But here’s what I’ve learned: If your first response to these challenges is to say, “I’m out, I can’t handle this,” you’re letting those experiences control your life. And trust me, that’s not a place you want to stay.
I get it. A few years ago, I spent an entire year in a wheelchair, juggling both my daughter’s college bills and her sudden illness that nearly took her life. It was one of the hardest periods of my life. But we survived it—one step at a time.
The key? Don’t let setbacks define you. Let them remind you that time is precious, and that your family—and your goals—are worth fighting for.
2. Feeling Trapped in the Same Routine
Physician moms and executive moms, I know you can relate to this. Your days might feel like one long loop: wake up, work, handle family stuff, repeat. After a while, it feels like Groundhog Day, right? And you wonder, “Is this it?”
Routines are great for keeping life organized, but they can also become a trap. If you’re stuck in the same pattern and nothing is changing, guess what? It might be time for a dramatic shift.
And no, I’m not talking about packing up and moving to a new country (although, hey, why not?). I’m talking about small changes that can lead to big transformations. Maybe it’s time to set firmer boundaries at work or revisit what truly makes you passionate. Don’t be afraid to think big. Change is uncomfortable, but it’s necessary for growth—just like in medicine, you’ve got to evolve.
3. Starting Over
There’s no sugar-coating it: starting over is terrifying. Whether it’s a divorce, a financial setback, or a major career shift, it feels like your world is collapsing. But here’s the good news: Starting over isn’t the end. It’s a new beginning.
I know the idea of a “fresh start” sounds cliché, but hear me out. Holding onto something that’s broken is way worse than embracing a clean slate. You have the power to rebuild—and sometimes, that fresh start is exactly what you need to rediscover who you really are.
4. Letting Labels Define You
How many times have you caught yourself saying, “I’m a single mom,” or “I never have enough time”? These labels might feel accurate, but they’re also limiting. They box you into a narrative that keeps you from seeing your full potential.
We all have challenges. The world isn’t going to give us a break because we’ve had it tough. But that doesn’t mean we’re stuck. You are so much more than the labels you use to define yourself. And guess what? Your subconscious is listening. The story you tell yourself matters. So stop leaning on those labels, and start rewriting your narrative.
5. Ideas Without Action
We all have brilliant ideas. But how often do those ideas actually turn into action? Without execution, ideas are just dreams. I’ve lost count of how many “what if” scenarios I’ve dreamed up, only to realize later that I didn’t take the necessary steps to make them real.
Here’s the thing: The real magic happens when you stop thinking and start doing. Whether it’s a new business venture or a personal goal, nothing happens without action. Channel the energy you use to tackle patient care or business projects into your personal goals. Watch your life transform.
6. Not Following Through on Big Changes
You know when it’s time for a change. Maybe you’ve been feeling it for a while, whether it’s about your career, your relationship, or even how you’re managing your time. But here’s the thing: Delaying those changes only makes things worse.
Take one small step today. Just one. The bigger changes will follow. And remember, change—like surgery—can be painful at first, but the recovery is worth it.
7. Letting Your Phone Run Your Life
How much time are you spending on your phone? Be honest. Between the endless emails, notifications, and social media distractions, it’s easy to get caught up in everyone else’s priorities instead of your own. Your subconscious knows when your focus is being drained.
Here’s a challenge for you: Put your phone away for a few hours every day. Focus on what truly matters—your goals, your family, your well-being. I promise, you’ll feel lighter and more in control.
8. Idle Goals
Let’s talk about goals. We all have them, but how often do we actually follow through? Goals are just wishes until you take action. Write them down. Track your progress. Hold yourself accountable.
You didn’t get this far in your career by giving up. Apply that same determination to your personal goals, and watch what happens.
Conclusion
Life as a physician or executive mom isn’t easy, but that doesn’t mean you can’t thrive. By identifying what’s holding you back and taking actionable steps to move forward, you can break free from negativity and start living the life you truly deserve.
Remember, you’re stronger than you think, and you’ve got this.
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