Dr. Alex D.
Photography by Ashley Kung
If you’re reading this, set your boundaries.
Navigating a career in the medical field can often feel overwhelming, but I've found that setting boundaries has been pivotal for my mental health. Boundaries are essential for maintaining a balance between taking care of others and taking care of myself.
The most important modification I made during residency was to set a clear boundary between work and home. This became quite difficult during the COVID pandemic, as remote work became increasingly popular. However, when I was not setting this boundary, I found myself feeling drained and less engaged in my work. If I did not distinguish time for work from time for relaxation, my work would bleed into my personal life and I would not get the chance to recharge. Now, I try to complete as much work as I can at the office, so when I return home, I can adequately decompress. If I do complete work remotely, I set time limits.
Furthermore, when I am not at work, I prioritize activities that I value and improve my well-being. Spending time with my husband and dog is my favorite activity outside of work. This ranges from taking a walk together in the evening around our neighborhood to taking advantage of our allotted vacation time and traveling together. Besides spending time with my family, I enjoy exercise, especially running. I have found that planning and scheduling my workouts throughout the week makes them more likely to happen.
Ultimately, setting boundaries involves effective communication. Despite my instinct to say "yes" to everything, I know that doing so can lead me to stretch myself too thin. By learning to say "no" when necessary, I've been able to focus on what truly matters, which improves my involvement and productivity in the activities that I have committed to. I have found that it is important to express your boundaries to others, so that it is clear what you will and will not do. Ultimately, this makes experiences more fruitful for everyone involved.
Below are a few key steps to successfully set boundaries:
Identify Your Limits: Reflect on what drains you and what energizes you. Understanding your limits is the first step in knowing where to set boundaries.
Communicate Clearly: Be honest and direct when expressing your needs. It might feel uncomfortable at first, but clear communication is key to setting effective boundaries.
Practice Saying No: Remember, it's okay to say no. Practice it in low-stakes situations to build confidence.
Prioritize Self-Care: Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine. Whether it's through hobbies, rest, or alone time, prioritize activities that rejuvenate you.
Be Consistent: Stick to your boundaries even when it's challenging. Consistency reinforces the importance of your needs and helps others respect them.
With support and encouragement,
Dr. Alex D., University of Florida
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