Working to Live: Being a Whole Person
A personal note on boundaries, joy, and remembering that every part of you is integral to who you are.
Growing up, I remember my father, an OB/GYN, working a lot. He loved being a doctor and gave everything to the hospital and clinic. When he retired, I could tell that without medicine a big part of him felt missing.
Early in my career, I recognized that I loved this profession, but that without boundaries I'd have no time for anything else. So I chose to protect the parts of me beyond the white coat. I love sports and fitness (tennis, skating, running, cycling). I love the arts (ballet, theater). I love music, performing, and dancing. I love blogging and media education. I love mentoring and teaching. And I love the people I care about.
Earlier this year, my internist, a single mother, looked at me and asked me to promise her I would always make time for myself and for my child, no matter what. She reminded me I can be a great physician without sacrificing the other pieces of who I am.
Bottom line: I am a whole person. Every part of me is integral in fitting into my complete puzzle. I don't have to be one thing. I need all of the pieces.
Dr. Maggie Cadet, MD