So I told @ley-med that I get through the lows of residency by making note of what does go right each day, and she's gone and challenged herself to post those on her blog for 30 days! This semester has been rough on me so far too, so I thought I'd join in. If you want to participate, all you have to do is post anything you did well or felt good about that day, it's easy!
Before we start - why did I start using this technique? Residency is fun and inspiring but it can be really hard at times. And what makes it harder is imposter syndrome. I'm my own worst enemy when it comes to my self confidence, because I have a strong tendency to focus on what I missed, messed up, or could do better. While that awareness can help me improve, it can weigh a little heavy. So, to prove to myself that I am doing well and constantly improving, I started making a note in my planner each day about what went well. That helps me to focus on what I did well in the moment, and it means I can look back at it and see that my biggest achievement six months ago is easy for me now, so I can track my progress with a positive focus.
And with that, my achievements today:
- Taught a whole group of students how to do an avian necropsy by myself
- Had a great client interaction where I could answer all her questions and impressed her with our quick results turn-around
- Both of our first year residents came to me with questions today and I was able to help them
(Day 1/30)
