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Can you take your soul to work?
1American College of Physician Executives, Tampa, Florida, USA. blinney@acpe.org
Physician Executive
|June 10, 2000
Summary
Physician executives can preserve their souls in corporate healthcare by identifying their calling, knowing their values, and practicing self-care. This approach combats the spiritual desert of modern healthcare workplaces.
Area of Science:
- Organizational Psychology
- Medical Humanities
- Professional Development
Background:
- The increasing corporatization of the U.S. healthcare system poses challenges to the well-being of physician executives.
- Professionals invest significant psychic and emotional energy in their work, making the workplace a critical area for personal fulfillment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore strategies for physician executives to integrate their "souls" or authentic selves into their professional lives.
- To provide actionable advice for maintaining spiritual and emotional vitality within corporate healthcare environments.
Main Methods:
- The study draws on insights from David White's "The Heart Aroused: Poetry and the Preservation of Soul in Corporate America."
- It synthesizes practical recommendations for professionals navigating demanding work environments.
Main Results:
- Seven key strategies are proposed: identifying life's calling, self-awareness of thoughts and desires, mindful self-expression at work, cultivating trustworthy listening, engaging with nature, attending to physical space, and pursuing hobbies.
- Daily remembrance of core values is identified as a crucial discipline for a rich soul life.
Conclusions:
- Physician executives can proactively preserve their "souls" by implementing these strategies.
- Integrating personal values and self-care into professional life is essential for combating burnout and fostering a more meaningful work experience in healthcare.