Episode #41: Dealing With Shame at the Career Crossroads

A variety of emotions come up at the career crossroads. Two of the more painful ones are guilt and shame. Dr. Brian Sayers joins me to talk about how these emotions can arise when considering leaving medicine and from medical mistakes. He shares a four-step process for addressing these emotions. We also learn how Dr. Sayer’s own life experiences led to his work in helping physicians. Dr. Sayers is a rheumatologist, writer, and Chair of the Physician Wellness Committee for the Travis County Medical Society.

In this episode we’re talking about:

How Brian Sayer’s path led to his interest in physician wellness
Shame and guilt related to leaving medicine and medical mistakes
The difference between guilt and shame
How shame isolates us from others and can keep us stuck
A four-step process for moving forward through shame
The value of connecting with our colleagues who are struggling

Links for this episode:

Dr. Brian Sayer’s About Page

Physician Wellness Blog for the Travis County Medical Society – Dr. Sayers is the editor and frequent contributor

Brene Brown’s TED Talk – Listening to Shame

Brene Brown’s TED Talk – The Power of Vulnerability

What Doctor’s Feel: How Emotions Affect the Practice of Medicine by Danielle Ofri, MD

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