The Life of a Doctor
I’m going way back when I look at this post, but I wanted people to understand what lies ahead if they’re trying to be a doctor. Healthcare is one of the most popular industries to work in, and so many are applying for med school. Where they end up is their choice, but if it’s for the role of doctor or nurse, I wanted to take a throwback to my episode 10 guest, Aivan Kaikoz.
It was back in 2022, on a rainy day when I interviewed him. He was gracious enough to take the time to speak with me about his experience as a med student and the rigorous life that being a doctor would bring. From his account, there are two things to always have.
Good communication. Always keep your staff up to date on what medicines, procedures, or conditions are at hand or needed, without missing a single detail. There’s been doctors and nurses who weren’t told the smallest thing and they had disastrous consequences. This job is complicated and unforgiving. Always keep everyone updated and knowledgeable.
Good leadership and social skills. Saving someone’s life is a team effort. There’s always more than one surgeon to perform a transplant, and more than one scientist to manufacture a new prescription. How you work with your staff is extremely important. You want to be able to know you can trust them and they can trust you, otherwise conflict will interfere with your work.
In medical school, you’re not just learning how to save a life, you’re also learning to accept the costs of being in such an important role. Being a doctor means hours and hours of time working. Missing holidays, birthdays, family reunions, all so someone can enjoy that with their family. Sure, the gratitude from them and their families is nice, but you can’t help but think, “What about my family?” You’re making a large sacrifice, and it matters if that sacrifice is worth it to you.
Another thing is because the job is so time demanding and exhausting, any chance you have to breathe is necessary. Aivan mentioned that he and other students would take time to go for walks, jogs, or just exercise in general. Fitness allows them to occupy their bodies while they take their minds off the work at hand.
With all of this in mind, Aivan didn’t regret a thing and would continue to go down this path, so he could save someone’s life, and I have nothing but respect for that. What do you think is something to be aware of before becoming a doctor?