Many studies and reports show that doctors and nurses just aren’t paid enough. The working conditions are dire, the hours are long, and people just don’t appreciate you. If the media coverage is anything to go by, those who once dressed up as a doctor as a child now reconsider if it’s the career for them. While some of this is true, as was noted in “This Is Going To Hurt” by Adam Kay, there is a lot of joy and perks in working in the medical profession.
So let’s take a lighthearted look at some of the glory that goes with that v-neck scrub top.
Job Security
While this might sound a little bit boring, and sometimes it depends on the economic climate, there isn’t a hospital anywhere in the world that won’t need a nurse to run the IVs or a Surgeon to tackle those significant life-saving operations. It is projected that between 2016 and 2026 the requirement for doctors will go up by 13%. Cardiologist and radiologist will be in the highest demand. You might choose to head into private practice, or you might prefer hospital-managed care. The choice really would be yours. Whatever you choose, you can pretty much be there for life.
Making a difference
Most doctors and nurses, or any medical staff tend to go into medicine because they want to make a difference. They want to do some good. They conduct research, seeking out new possibilities that can potentially save lives. There is probably nothing more rewarding for a doctor or nurse then seeing someone make a full recovery, or seeing a research paper published about a new technique that saves money and lives.
You can be on the cutting edge (no pun intended) of new surgical techniques, or perhaps even be the one that creates them. There are also opportunities to travel and lend your expertise to developing countries, conflict zones, disaster areas, and refugee camps and so much more.
Experience true gratitude
At the end of your shift, you will often be exhausted and elated. You will be using your medical knowledge and the years of studying to really make a difference. Whatever you have chosen to specialize in, the people who you have treated will be deeply grateful. The personal fulfillment from making those impacts is enormous.
Passing on knowledge
As well as being hands-on, you can help others grow by passing on knowledge to interns, residents, and fellows. While book work is essential, there is nothing that can replace or compare to that hands-on experience that you can show them.
Working in the medical profession is a lot of work and responsibility. The hours are long and you often feel unappreciated for all that you do. However, it is a very rewarding career. You make a difference by giving the gift of life to those you serve. Now from where I see things, that’s priceless… Here’s to your success!
Carolyn R. Owens has over 25 years of proven experience and serves as a Career Strategist, Executive and Leadership Coach. She is the President of Infinity Coaching, Inc. where she can help you up-level your skills, so you can up-level your income, career, business or life. Infinity Coaching, Inc. provides coaching, organizational training, personality assessments, and a signature program, the Infinity Coaching Inner Circle. Carolyn is certified to give both The Energy Leadership Index Assessment and Myers Briggs Type Indicator Assessment. You can find out more he about both assessments and other products and services at https://infinitycoaching.net.
