How to Prevent Burnout with Dr. Stacey Rose

Dr. Stacey Rose is the Assistant Dean of Clinical Curriculum and Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases at the Baylor College of Medicine. As a physician leader, educator, and mentor, Dr. Rose has received many national honors and awards from bodies such as the American College of Physicians and the ACGME. She is committed to improving medical education through curriculum development, as well as improving physician wellness. As a physician-in-training (and beyond), burnout happens often. But of succumbing to it, why not implement new strategies for recognizing—and preventing it? Today, Dr. Stacey Rose offers her strategies for combating burnout. She advises us to celebrate success: however large or small. Find not just one mentor, but build a network: The mentor you turn to for career advice may not be the one you turn to for managing work/life balance. And remember: your work as a physician always goes back to the patient. Taking time to learn the “human side” of patients—not just their diagnoses—will help you stay focused on what matters most (and it will energize you, too). Pearls of Wisdom: 1. Celebrate successes, however large or small. This will lower the risks of burnout. 2. Find a mentor. Do not be shy to reach out! Build a network of mentors who can speak to different areas of your life. 3. Remember that everything is about the patient, regardless if it is administrative or clinical. 4. Do not be afraid to make mistakes. Seek to minimize them but simply focus on doing your best every single day.