You Can Be Right... But at What Cost?

28 May

As healthcare professionals, we often place immense pressure on ourselves to be perfect. We fear making mistakes, believing that our worth is tied to our ability to know everything and never falter. This pursuit of perfection can lead to a cycle of anxiety, exhaustion, and burnout.

The Early Days of Perfectionism

I vividly remember my early days as a doctor, constantly worried about missing important details or making the wrong decision. I would check and triple-check every test result, stay late to review patient notes, and spend countless hours poring over textbooks. I was terrified of admitting any gaps in my knowledge, convinced that others expected me to have all the answers.

However, as the years went by, I realised that this relentless pursuit of perfection was not only unsustainable but also deeply isolating. I was so focused on being right that I had forgotten the importance of connection—with my patients, my colleagues, and myself.

A Transformative Question

Everything changed when a wise mentor asked me a simple question: "Do you want to be right, or do you want to be loved?" This question struck me to my core, revealing profound truths:

You can never know everything.
You can always look things up.
You can always ask for help.

By embracing these truths, I began to let go of the unrealistic expectations I had placed on myself. I learned to focus on what I did know rather than worrying about what I didn’t. I discovered the power of vulnerability, admitting when I was unsure and seeking support from others.

Building Connections Through Vulnerability

As I opened up to my colleagues about my struggles, I found that I was not alone. Many of them faced similar fears and pressures. By sharing our experiences, we fostered a sense of camaraderie and understanding. Imagine a medical culture where we prioritise connection over perfection—where we celebrate the courage to ask for help, admit our uncertainties, and learn from our mistakes. This environment supports one another through the challenges of our work, recognising that our shared humanity makes us truly excellent physicians.

The Power of Shifting Mindsets

This shift in mindset has the potential to transform not only our individual well-being but also the quality of care we provide. When we let go of the need to be perfect, we create space for empathy, collaboration, and growth.

If you find yourself caught in the trap of perfectionism, remember:

Your worth is not defined by what you know but by the care and compassion you bring to your work.
Vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.
Connection is the key to courage and success.

By embracing these principles, we can quiet the voices of self-doubt and cultivate a sense of clarity and purpose. We can find joy in the journey of continuous learning, knowing that we are part of a supportive community of healthcare professionals.

Conclusion

Let’s create a culture where we prioritise connection over perfection, fostering a supportive environment that nurtures both our personal growth and the well-being of our patients. By doing so, we can transform our approach to healthcare, allowing compassion and collaboration to take centre stage.