"Seeing the Flowers": A Reflection on Perspective
Recently, I had the privilege of working with students and doctors in Upington, discussing ECGs, point-of-care ultrasound, and clinical cases. Their enthusiasm was infectious, but one moment stood out:
As we walked between sessions, I remarked, "Wow, what beautiful flowers!"
A student replied, "I don't see the flowers."
This exchange struck me deeply. In our demanding field, it's easy to develop tunnel vision, focusing solely on tasks and challenges. But "seeing the flowers" is about more than just noticing plants:
It's about finding moments of joy in our daily work.
Recognizing growth and resilience in our patients and ourselves.
Stepping back to appreciate the bigger picture of our impact.
Maintaining hope in the face of difficult situations.
As healthcare professionals, "seeing the flowers" isn't just about personal well-being—it enhances our ability to:
Cultivate empathy, seeing patients as whole people.
Maintain our mental health, reducing burnout.
Inspire colleagues and patients, creating a positive environment.
Master your skills, but don’t forget to look up occasionally. The flowers are there, offering beauty and hope amidst our daily challenges.
"The little things? The little moments? They aren't little." - Jon Kabat-Zinn