Leadership Lessons They Don't Teach You in Medical School

Here are five leadership lessons I wish someone had taught me earlier in my career. Whilst medical school and paediatric training equipped me with the necessary knowledge and skills needed to function well, I found leadership to be a different ball game.

1. You don’t have to have all the answers

As a doctor, you have a wealth of knowledge, practical skills and decision making skills in complex scenarios. What I have learned over time that there is often a lot of complexity and nuance to some of the decisions that need to be made and how we need to communicate this with patients and families. It’s absolutely okay to say ‘I don’t know’ and take time to research, consult with colleagues or a multi-disciplinary team.

2. Your presence matters more than your words

The level of presence that you show up with when you’re with your patients, families, colleagues and team members speaks volumes compared to the content of what you are sharing. Take time to become aware of your energy, your body language and how present you really are in a place. Not from a place of performance but from a place of being fully present with the person in front of you. Coherence between your energy and your language enables you to lead with trust and authority.

3. Conflict avoidance costs more than conflict

Many of us have faced situations where there is potential for challenge or conflict. However, avoiding the difficult conversation now often has consequences later on. By stepping up and having an honest and compassionate conversation, whether that’s with a patient or with colleagues or trainees, will save a lot of heartache down the road. Remember that you are here in service of those who you are caring for or training, not to please them.

4. You can't pour from an empty cup

This one took me the longest to learn and is still a work in progress. As doctors, we're brilliant at looking after everyone else and often over-give far beyond our capacity at the time. Taking care of your own wellbeing is essential for sustainable leadership. The demands will always outweigh what you are physically able to give. If you are giving from a place of being nourished and fulfilled, this will ultimately have better outcomes not only for you, but for your patients and your colleagues.

5. Your leadership style is uniquely yours

Your unique leadership blueprint comes with who you are uniquely. You may read about different styles in the textbooks and the courses but ultimately being more of you is what will get you satisfaction and be able to lead with presence and authority. Taking time to invest in your own personal development pays dividends far beyond your investment and the ripple effect is worth it. If any of these points resonate with you or you would like to explore your own unique leadership style in more depth, please get in touch for a free discovery call.