3 Lessons I Learned About Burnout as an ER Doc

Happy Sunday, Leaders!

This week, I want to share some lessons I learned about burnout while working in the ER during the pandemic.

I was an ER doctor in 2020.

The pandemic hit, and the ER was packed.

I saw some awful things:

• Folks struggling to breathe.
• People wishing for more time.
• Kids dying before their parents.

Healthcare workers quit.

The surge in patient volume, coupled with staff shortages due to illness or quarantine, resulted in increased physical and emotional exhaustion.

I wondered if I would make it.

We didn’t understand the virus.

And there was no end in sight. 

But experts offered opinions and theories.

Then something hit me.

Something had to change, so I:

• Hired a coach.
• Learned anti-burnout tools.
• Studied the science of wellness.

I focused on what I could control.

I realized I couldn't care for others.

Until I took care of myself.

Leaders, the same is true for you.

Here are the lessons I learned and how you can apply them:

1. Prioritize Self-Care:

I couldn't help others effectively if running on empty.

The same goes for you. 

Your well-being is essential for your team's success.

Create space for activities that recharge you.

Encourage your team to do the same.

2. Understand the Science of Stress.

I learned HOW chronic stress affects our brain and body, leading to burnout. 

Understanding this helped me to manage stress and prevent burnout..

I incorporated stress-reducing practices into my workday.

Such as deep breathing. 

You'd be surprised how well that works. 

It's a technique I teach in my workshops.

3. Focus on what you control.

In the ER, I couldn't control the pandemic. 

But I could control how I responded to it. 

I could choose my wake-up routine and my thoughts.

This mindset shift was crucial.

What does that mean for you?

Identify the factors that you control for your team.

• Is it time off? 
• Is it scheduling? 
• Is it email norms?

Help your team to set realistic goals and priorities.

Look at those factors and make shifts.

Remind your team about the power of a wake-up routine.

If you're burnt out, your team will feel it.

You’re no good, burnt out.

Neither is your team.

You deserve more.

They do, too.

As leaders, you have a responsibility beyond just getting the job done. 

It's about ensuring your team is well, both in mind and body. 

By prioritizing self-care, understanding the science of stress, and focusing on what you can control, you can help your team thrive.

That’s all for this week. 

Always wishing you the best,

Dr. Beckford

P.S. Whenever you’re ready to build a burnout-free culture. Here are two ways I can help you:

1. Boost your team’s profitability and well-being through a customized 1:1 presentation.
2.  Get answers to your questions in a 1:1 session.