5 Ways to Recharge with Little Time as a Woman Physician

My typical day is split between two main roles I have to play: a woman physician and a mother. With all the never-ending tasks and demands I encounter daily, I am no superhero and there will be those times when a quick little recharge gets me going. 

As a woman doctor, my days are filled with the responsibilities of caring for my patients. I am entrusted with the well-being and health of others, which requires me to be attentive, knowledgeable, and empathetic. Simultaneously, I bear the beautiful responsibility of being a mother. This role fills my heart with immeasurable joy and love. Being a mother requires immense patience, multitasking abilities, and the capacity to be present for my children, even when I am juggling numerous other obligations.  

You might be thinking, how do I do it? Well, yes, I am wandering the same thing at times! And I am certainly not doing it perfectly. But I have realized I must have clear, intentional plans to take care of myself, because when I don’t, I find that I cannot show up for me, for my kids, or for my patients. Here are 5 ways I recharge despite my busy life. 

So Many Things Yet So Little Time 

Picture this: You wake up to the sound of your alarm, and before you even open your eyes, your mind starts racing and feeling a sense of urgency as you mentally run through the day's tasks. The to-do list seems to grow longer with every passing moment, and the hours in a day suddenly feel insufficient to conquer it all. 

In this chaos, there is a way to regain control and make the most of the limited time we have. First and foremost, take a deep breath. Inhale. Exhale. Let us remind ourselves that we are not superheroes capable of bending time to our will. We are only humans, with limited hours in a day. And that's okay. 

To conquer this whirlwind of tasks, it all begins with a crucial skill: prioritization. Grab a pen and a piece of paper, or open that trusty task management app on your phone. Then ask yourself: 

• What are the tasks that absolutely must be done today? 
• Are there tasks critical to achieving my goals? 
• Do I have any backlogs I have to catch up on? 
• Are there tasks that require collaboration? Do I need to ask for help? 
• What is urgent? What is not? 

The never-ending to-do list may be daunting, but remember that you are in control. You have the power to decide what truly matters and how you want to spend your time.  

Do you know what is one thing that can be best paired with prioritization? Your time management skills. When you find yourself overwhelmed, constantly juggling multiple responsibilities, and struggling to give time for yourself, I have created an exceptional toolkit designed specifically to assist you in destressing, finding balance, and regaining control over your day. Best of all, this toolkit is completely free and tailored to your needs. 

Quick Recharge in 5 Ways 

When it comes to finding a quick recharge during a busy day, here are five effective ways that I do: 

Embrace Micro-Moments of Self-Care 

Given this profession, my schedule can be unpredictable, leaving little room for long breaks or extended periods of self-care. It resembles a jigsaw puzzle with scattered pieces that rarely fit together neatly. The demands of this profession, alongside being a mom can leave me feeling like I am constantly running on empty, with little time for myself. Yet, within this seemingly chaotic landscape, I have discovered the power of micro-moments of self-care. 

Micro-moments of self-care are like precious gems sprinkled throughout our busy days. These are short but intentional pockets of time that allow me to reset and recharge. It could be as simple as taking a few deep breaths, finding a quiet spot to sip a cup of coffee or tea, or even stepping outside for a brief walk in nature.  

Self-care can take many forms, as long as we prioritize giving ourselves the care and attention we deserve. If you're feeling stressed and seeking ways to unwind, download my FREE guide to destress. It provides valuable insights and techniques to help you find relaxation and rejuvenation in your daily life.  

These small acts of self-care can make a significant impact on my mental and emotional well-being, helping me navigate life’s everyday demands with greater clarity and resilience. By consciously embracing these moments, we acknowledge our worth and well-being. We remind ourselves that we deserve care and attention, just as much as we offer to the people around us. 

Incorporate Mindfulness Daily  

Mindfulness is a practice that has revolutionized the way I approach both my personal and professional life. It has become an invaluable practice that brings me a sense of peace and restoration, especially during the busiest of days. Taking just a few moments to engage in mindfulness can have a profound impact on your well-being. Whether it's a short meditation session, focusing on my breath during a brief pause, or even mindfully savoring a meal, these practices allow me to cultivate a sense of presence and reduce stress. 

Embracing mindfulness and nurturing self-awareness has been a transformative journey for me. One avenue that greatly contributes to my sense of mindfulness is indulging in podcasts, where I can listen to valuable insights from others. There is a sense of calmness that washes over me when I encounter fresh perspectives on topics I may have previously viewed differently. If you're seeking podcasts that can enhance your sense of mindfulness and self-awareness, you can dive right in with my podcast and help yourself with numerous topics to explore and enhance various aspects of your life. 

By incorporating mindfulness into my daily life, I can let go of regrets and worries about the past or future. It allows me to fully embrace the present moment, finding peace and contentment in the here and now. Mindfulness serves as a powerful tool for reducing stress, enhancing self-awareness, and fostering a deep connection with myself and the world around me. These practices empower me to approach each day with renewed energy, clarity, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of the present moment.  

The notion of mindfulness often begins with the understanding that it starts within ourselves. However, there are instances where we may feel disoriented and uncertain about whether we are on the right path. Right? If you find yourself in this situation or know someone who is in this exact position in life, I encourage you to seek coaching sessions with me. If you find yourself in this situation or know someone who is in this exact position in life, I encourage you to seek coaching sessions with me. 

Prioritize Quality Sleep 

In a profession that often requires long and irregular hours, sleep can easily become compromised. However, prioritizing quality sleep is non-negotiable when it comes to recharging as a physician, as a mom, and definitely, as a human. I have discovered that creating a sleep routine and environment that promotes relaxation and restfulness is essential and makes a great difference.   

This is so simple to do. Start by establishing a consistent bedtime routine, keeping electronic devices out of the bedroom, and creating a peaceful ambiance with soft lighting and comfortable bedding. By honoring our sleep needs and ensuring we get adequate rest, we optimize our cognitive function, emotional well-being, and overall productivity. We wake up with a refreshed energy and readiness to face another day head-on.  

If you're finding it tough to resist the pull of your devices at bedtime, I've got a suggestion that could make a real difference. Take it one step at a time and begin by replacing your device with a book. And guess what? I've got the perfect recommendation for you, my book, Brave Boundaries. This book explores the importance of setting healthy boundaries and finding empowerment in doing so. Give it a read, and I'm sure you'll discover valuable insights and strategies to enhance your well-being by being firm with your boundaries.  

Cultivate Supportive Relationships 

Cultivating meaningful relationships with colleagues, friends, and family has been an absolute game-changer when it comes to finding rejuvenation and support in my life. There is something incredibly valuable about connecting with others who truly understand the unique challenges and demands we face on daily. It is in these relationships that we find a sense of camaraderie, understanding, and support that can make all the difference.  

Whether it's organizing regular meet-ups or engaging in activities outside of work with loved ones, these connections offer an opportunity to unwind, share experiences, and gain perspective. If you are looking for a network of women who understands you, join my thriving and supportive community. This is a special place dedicated to fostering the power of sisterhood and the strength that comes from supporting one another on our unique journeys. 

The beauty of fostering these relationships is that they offer a network of support that uplifts and rejuvenates us. They serve as a reminder that we are not alone in our experiences and that others understand and stand beside us. The empathy and encouragement we receive from these meaningful connections can make a world of difference in our well-being, allowing us to navigate the challenges, whether in personal or professional settings, with renewed strength and resilience. 

For a total incredible connection with others, I invite you to join me and a community of thriving women at the Brave Enough Women's CME Conference 2023, you will have the chance to immerse yourself in a community of like-minded women who are eager to share their experiences and uplift one another. This is designed to provide you with transformative insights, practical strategies, and a renewed sense of empowerment. 

Engage in Joyful Activities 

Finding time for activities that bring us joy is crucial for recharging. It is easy to get caught up in the demands of our everyday lives and neglect our own passions and hobbies. However, carving out time for activities that nourish our souls is essential for our well-being. Whether it is pursuing a creative outlet, engaging in physical exercise, or immersing ourselves in a favorite hobby, these joyful activities provide a much-needed respite from the stresses of work. By consciously incorporating these activities into our schedules, we reconnect with our passions, boost our mood, and restore our energy. 

Looking for a unique and joyful experience, one that is definitely for the books? If the answer is yes, then I extend a warm invitation to join me and a community of like-minded women at the Brave Enough 2023 Fall Retreat happening this November. Imagine immersing yourself in awe-inspiring landscapes that reflect the inner beauty within you. This retreat offers a safe and nurturing space where you can recharge, rejuvenate, and focus solely on self-care. 

Recharge, Thrive, Repeat 

Sister, when life feels overwhelming, say this with me: "Recharge, thrive, repeat." 

When life feels overwhelming, let these words be our mantra, a reminder to prioritize our well-being and seek renewal. It is in this rhythm of recharging and thriving that we discover the endless possibilities that lie within us. 

So, my dear sister, let us embrace these time-efficient ways to recharge, finding solace in the moments that restore our souls. Let self-care become an unshakable pillar in our lives, one that must be prioritized. 

Remember, by investing in our well-being, we become better physicians, mothers, leaders, and advocates for both ourselves and the people around us. Let us commit to recharge, thrive, and repeat this empowering cycle, creating a sustainable foundation of self-care that nourishes our souls and propels us toward lives of purpose, fulfillment, and boundless growth.