Physician Coaching & Moral Injury w/ Dr. Michael Hersh (Ep. #23)

The Secret to Physician Fulfillment: Embracing Gratitude and Goal-Setting

In the high-pressure world of medicine, physicians often find themselves chasing the next achievement, believing that reaching their next goal will bring happiness. However, Dr. Michael Hersh, a gastroenterologist and founder of Better Physician Life, suggests a different approach. Through his work as a coach for physicians, Dr. Hersh emphasizes the importance of gratitude and mindful goal-setting to prevent burnout and find true fulfillment.

Embracing the Present

Dr. Hersh likens the constant pursuit of goals to holding a kitten while desiring another cat. This analogy underscores the need to appreciate current blessings instead of always yearning for more. He argues that while setting goals is essential, it's equally important to find contentment in the present. This balance can help physicians maintain their well-being and avoid the pitfalls of the "rival fallacy"—the erroneous belief that the next achievement will bring lasting happiness.

The discussion also highlights how goal-setting can be a powerful tool in combating physician burnout. Dr. Cena Smith's perspective on continuous learning is mentioned, reinforcing the idea that personal and professional growth should be ongoing processes. Dr. Hersh shares his personal journey, including feelings of stagnation five years into his career and the pressures of a heavy workload and a prolonged malpractice suit. These experiences contributed to his burnout, leading him to seek solutions beyond traditional medical practice.

The Role of Financial Independence

One significant turning point for Dr. Hersh was discovering the Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) movement. This concept encouraged him to focus on saving money and consider alternative career paths. However, he cautions that financial independence alone isn't a cure-all for burnout. The underlying issues need to be addressed to achieve genuine fulfillment.

The Power of Coaching

Dr. Hersh initially approached physician coaching with skepticism but found it transformative. Coaching helped him regain a sense of autonomy and provided tools to address the root causes of his dissatisfaction. By focusing on introspection and understanding emotions, coaching can guide physicians to discover their true needs and aspirations.

Addressing Moral Injury and Emotional Suppression

Another critical aspect Dr. Hersh discusses is moral injury—the distress experienced when working in a system that conflicts with one's values. He emphasizes the importance of processing emotions, especially in a profession where feelings are often suppressed. Allowing oneself to feel and process emotions can prevent long-term harm and contribute to overall well-being.

Financial Literacy for Physicians

Dr. Hersh also addresses the lack of financial literacy among physicians. He shares his own experiences with poor financial advice and how educating himself transformed his financial outlook. Now, he helps other physicians make informed financial decisions, aligning their financial goals with their broader life aspirations. As Dr. Hersh continues his work as a physician coach, he plans to expand his reach through video content and other platforms. His goal is to share his message of balance, gratitude, and mindful goal-setting with a broader audience, helping more physicians find fulfillment in their personal and professional lives.

Dr. Michael Hersh's insights offer a valuable roadmap for physicians seeking to navigate the complexities of their careers and personal lives. By embracing gratitude, setting meaningful goals, and addressing both emotional and financial well-being, physicians can achieve a balanced and fulfilling life.