Resolutions

This year harbors big changes. It seems that my life can be partitioned into packages of four years: high school, college, medical school, and now residency. Each transition is intimidating and exciting, but this one may be the biggest yet. Finally, I will be stepping out of the student's shoes into the gray area of trainee, balancing learning with patient care. After being in school for 20 years, I'll actually have a job - and for someone like me who hasn't taken any years off of school, that's a big deal. In six months, I will take upon the rights, responsibilities, and privileges of this profession. I'm sure when the time comes, I'll ruminate on it much more.

But for now - resolutions! Though it's quite general and perhaps generic, I think this coming year, I want to achieve balance. On the one hand, the people I'm caring for must come first; patient care is always the priority. These four years of residency will build the foundation upon which the rest of my career rests; I must take advantage of every opportunity to learn. On the other hand, the long hours and emotional trials of internship are taxing. I have to maintain my own health, cultivate my personal interests, and pursue growth. I must take care of myself along with taking care of others. In residency, the work-life balance must tip towards work, but I don't want my job to consume me. I hope that I will be able to find a balance between myself and others, work and play, growth and service in the coming year.