Finding Balance in the Chaos
I’m writing this while on call, on a weekend, walking on my walking pad at home—thinking to myself, “How many things can I possibly do at once?” I could play a podcast in the background, maybe dive into a new study or topic… but, of course, another call is already coming through.
It’s been almost a year since my last post (time flies when you’re juggling patients, calls, and the occasional attempt at self-care). The truth is, being a thorough and engaged medical provider is far more demanding than I could have ever imagined. Nursing was hard—twelve years of it taught me grit and resilience—but this is a whole new level.
BUT… here’s the beautiful part:
I love it. I truly love what I get to do every single day. The late-night texts, the weekend calls—they don’t bother me. In fact, they remind me that I’m trusted, valued, and relied upon. Sure, there’s trial and error, but I show up and give my best, always. What they don’t teach you in school is that the more skilled and confident you become, the more people will need you. And honestly? That’s a privilege. I get to learn from all sorts of people, collaborate with amazing colleagues, and show up authentically—as a provider and as a person.
So yes, it’s been a while since I’ve written here. But looking back on where I was one year ago as a Nurse Practitioner, the growth is not only promising—it’s inspiring.
BUT (another big one):
Balance matters. If you’re a fellow medical professional reading this, hear me clearly: if you don’t take care of yourself, you won’t last. Read that again. Burnout is real, and it doesn’t care how dedicated you are. Working endless days, skipping sleep, ignoring nutrition, and avoiding movement isn’t “strength”—it’s a fast-track to the same chronic diseases we counsel our patients about.
So here’s my plea: drink your water. Get your labs checked. Move your body. Lift some weights. Take your vitamins. And please—stop eating like a toddler. Be the example your patients need. Live the message you teach.
Because at the end of the day, if you are trusted and valued—show it not only in your work, but in how you live.
