Finding meaning, balance, and personal satisfaction in the practice of oncology.

Three steps are proposed to help oncologists identify values, promote balance between their personal and professional lives, enhance the activities they find most meaningful in their work, and nurture activities that promote personal well-being.

Abstract

T raining for and practicing the specialty of medical oncology are stressful endeavors. During the training process, future oncologists often cope with their stress by assuming that “things will get better” after they complete residency and fellowship. This myth often leads physicians to sacrifice many of the personal values and activities that give life meaning. It also may perpetuate a philosophy of delayed gratification that leads to a loss of balance between personal and professional lives. If it is maintained for a long period, this imbalance may diminish personal resources that help oncologists cope with job-related stress and ultimately may contribute to physician burnout, a syndrome of emotional exhaustion and depersonalization that leads to decreased effectiveness at work. The insidious sacrifice of self during training and early practice may be perpetuated by the culture of residency/fellowship and the example of professional role models. Recognition that personal well-being is important provides oncologists the opportunity to reflect on values and make proactive decisions to combat burnout and enhance personal and professional satisfaction. In this article, we propose three steps to help oncologists identify values, promote balance between their personal and professional lives, enhance the activities they find most meaningful in their work, and nurture activities that promote personal well-being. In addition, based on the suggestions of practicing oncologists, we offer recommendations for fellowship programs to help these professionals prepare oncology fellows for the challenges they will face in practice.