HopeFul Reflections

I was reflecting back on the last year when I worked as a resident doctor for the first time. I was beyond anxious about the duties and responsibilities entrusted to me. I wanted to be the best doctor I could be for my patients. I was constantly doubting myself and felt I would never be as good as my peers. I needed prayer to get me through those times.

Every day I showed up to work I left feeling defeated. I felt slow, inefficient, and ineffective. I was told by others that I was doing fine, but when you have such limiting thoughts about yourself, it’s hard to see past that. I was tired of feeling small and wanted to do better. I humbled myself and asked everyone around me for advice. I studied what I didn’t know and I kept looking for ways to improve. Most importantly, I showed up every day ready for whatever came my way. I did not shy away from opportunities to work. I made sure I made myself available.

Gradually over time, I improved and started to meet my own standards. I was finally fast, knowledgeable, and I even enjoyed work. I kept the same attitude of being ready for whatever was in store for the day. I looked for the hardest tasks. I started to enjoy the hardest tasks. I loved the hardest tasks. I constantly immerse myself in new challenges and this approach has always been fruitful. In finding strength during the initial learning curve, prayer has always been of utmost importance.

-JKG