Unlocking The Secret Weapon To Your Career Success

What is your greatest asset in your career?

Take a moment to think about how you would answer this question…

…in a job interview.

…in a meeting with your advisor/mentor.

…in an annual review with your manager, chief, or leadership.

What about right now as you are reading this?

I am asking you the question directly.

What’s your answer?

For the first half of my career I would have responded by listing my proudest accomplishments.

Now approaching the third decade of my career my answer is very different.

So, I’ll share the personal insight that I have discovered over time that I believe is the key to lasting fulfillment and flourishing in your physician career.


YOU ARE YOUR GREATEST ASSET IN YOUR CAREER.

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If you’re anything like I was early in my career, this thought probably makes you very uncomfortable.

I was dealing with imposter syndrome and would cringe inside every time someone shared positive feedback.

I thought that the value I brought to my work was dependent on how smart I was, how well I did on the board exams, etc.

It took quite some time to recognize that who I am and the way that I choose to show up across all areas of my life, including work, is the value that I contribute.

Turning around the belief that your worth is solely tethered to what you do rather than who you are can be a transformative process.

Here are some suggestions to help you get started:
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1. Celebrate what makes you uniquely you: Take time to identify and appreciate your individual strengths, talents, and qualities. Recognize the aspects of your personality and character that set you apart from others. Embrace your uniqueness and understand that it adds value to your career and personal life.
   
   
   
2. Notice patterns in feedback: Pay attention to the feedback you receive from others, both personally and professionally. Look for recurring themes or patterns in the positive feedback you receive. For example, in my clinical career, I noticed how often people mentioned feeling calmer or safer in my presence. This included patients, colleagues, residents, students, and staff. When I transitioned to my nonclinical career, I started hearing the same feedback. It’s important to recognize and appreciate the qualities that contribute to your impact on others.
   
   
   
3. Avoid the comparison trap: Theodore Roosevelt said, “Comparison is the thief of joy.” This quote comes up for me when I notice that I’m comparing my journey (parenting, career, relationship) to someone else’s. Comparing yourself to others can be detrimental to your self-worth. Instead of measuring your success or value based on external factors or the achievements of others, focus on your own progress and growth. Everyone has their own journey, and your path is unique to you.
   
   
   
4. Focus on internal validation: Seek validation from within rather than relying solely on external validation. Acknowledge your own accomplishments, growth, and efforts. Develop self-awareness and cultivate a sense of self-worth that is not solely dependent on external recognition or praise.
   
   
   
5. Keep a list of self-appreciation: Maintain a running list of the things you appreciate about yourself beyond your actions or achievements. This list should reflect the qualities, values, and characteristics that make up who you are as a person. Add to the list over time as you increase belief in your self-worth. Regularly review this list to remind yourself of your inherent worth.
   
   
   
6. Distinguish your harsh inner critic from your wise inner advisor: Learn to identify the voice of your inner critic, which often undermines your confidence and self-worth. Challenge negative self-talk and replace it with positive and supportive thoughts. Having a hard time turning it around? For every thought that beats you down, counter it with an opposing thought that could be equally true. So maybe it’s true that you can sometimes be disorganized and leave the house later than you’d like…and, there are situations where you are extremely organized and on time. Equal air time helps to lessen black and white, all or nothing thinking by encouraging you to see both sides of a situation for a more balanced perspective. Cultivate self-compassion and treat yourself with kindness and understanding.
   
   
   
7. Have your own back (no matter what): Practice self-advocacy and stand up for yourself. Develop a strong belief in your abilities and inherent value. Be your own ally and advocate for your needs, aspirations, and boundaries. This involves setting healthy boundaries, making choices that align with your values, and taking steps to pursue your goals and dreams. 
   
   

Remember, your worth extends far beyond your job or any external measure of success. Embrace your unique qualities, celebrate who you are, and cultivate self-belief. By recognizing your greatest asset—yourself—you will be better equipped to sustain a fulfilling and successful career path over the long-term.

So, I’m curious how you answered this question and if you believe that you are your greatest asset in your career.
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Share your answer with me via email at michelle@drmichellebailey.com. I will personally read and respond to every message received.