February is still a time of year when we think about what 2024 has in store for us. Being a leader in radiology is no walk in the park, right? The past few years have been like a rollercoaster, and we leaders feel the major bumps and workload.
It’s not all sunshine and rainbows; some days are just downright brutal. OK, OK, for most of us, sheesh, every day is brutal. Like the rest of the front-line workforce, radiology leaders are no strangers to quitting quietly. Many of you feel overly stressed and emotional about leaving your team behind and being stuck in decision-making.
Doing More with Less
Work-life balance? We all want it, but sometimes it feels like trying to catch a unicorn. Most of us have accepted that there is no work-life balance, especially in this culture of doing more with less. There doesn’t seem to be joy and purpose and consequently we lose our spark, our passionate mojo.
Don’t Feel Guilty
It’s OK to admit it. Taking care of yourself is like putting on your superhero cape; you can’t save the day if you’re exhausted. Don’t be riddled with guilt. In this life, you have to put your oxygen mask on first. If you are stressed and tightly wound, what good are you to yourself, your family and your team?
Switching jobs can be exhilarating, yet many leaders I’ve spoken to grapple with feelings of depression, withdrawal, and uncertainty about staying or leaving. Emotional struggles sometimes cloud logical decisions. Having experienced this multiple times, I’ve learned that prioritizing my vision for a fulfilling life is crucial. If a job impedes my well-being and happiness, it’s time to explore alternatives.
Opportunities and Switching Costs
I find it very surprising that many colleagues feel trapped in a job because they think opportunities are limited. There is a substantial ongoing shortage in radiology. The supply shortage ensures many opportunities. You just have to decide which opportunity you want to pursue. The challenge comes with weighing the switching costs, the costs to move geographic locations, uproot family, pack a house (I absolutely hate this!), the stress of change, and just the dread of starting over.
What Do You Want?
We are so good at making decisions for our department and team, but sometimes, when it comes to us, we are stumped in what we want to be when we grow up. Some leaders are tired of the leadership drama, and others just want to try something new. Whatever it is, the motivation to change has to be bigger than the challenges of the switching costs. Think about roles that you wanted to try, roles that brought you joy or just do something different. Dunno where to start? Try chatting with people in roles that intrigue you to gain insights to help you decide.
Think About Where You Thrive
Do you love the beach, mountains or maybe the quiet countryside? Your happy place matters. It’s like choosing the background for your computer. It makes a big difference. Consider what your area offers that protects you from burnout and alleviates the pressure when you get bogged down by work. Thinking about where you want to live as well as the organization you want to work for, such as a trauma center, rural hospital, outpatient center, research university, for-profit, or nonprofit; the list is endless. Think about the places you have worked that you thoroughly enjoyed and pursue those opportunities where you will thrive!
Do You Need to Work?
Many of you will be answering with a resounding, “Yes!” But leaders, just like superheroes, need some downtime. Maybe you’ve been working a ton, and it’s time to pause, even if it’s just for a little while. Create a budget to assess possibilities. Consider a temporary leadership role, working 9 months with 3 off – appealing, right? Your financial situation shapes choices, but remember, you also shape your finances. Even if now isn’t ideal, start planning to consolidate debt, manage expenses and take a short break. Hobbies, interests, social life and family should contribute to your overall life. Remember, you’re a human being, not just a human doer. Downtime is essential, even for go-getters like us.
Taking the Leap
Deciding to switch jobs is a bit like choosing what flavor of ice cream to get. It can be challenging, but life is too short to be stuck with a flavor you don’t like. Trust yourself, make a choice and don’t look back. You need to make a decision and not let vacillation drain you. You have some excellent skills to make the best out of any situation.
Is There a Perfect Move?
Not really. Life’s a bit like a game with unexpected twists. But you know what? You’re like the main character and can handle whatever comes your way. Have faith in your competency and confidence that you will make the best out of any decision. If it does not work out, then rinse and repeat. You are not tied to one job – isn’t variety the spice of life? This is a personality preference, but in today’s world, we do not see the typical longevity of yesteryear. Five years seemed to be an average, but now it looks like 2 to 3 years is the new norm for staying at a job, if that long!
Don’t Wait for Happiness.
Delayed gratification works for some things in life, but not all the fun, good stuff needs to be saved for later. Life satisfaction can happen now. Don’t just wait for the next level or a specific stage of your life. Sheesh, we may be way too tired and broken to enjoy our golden years. Take a moment, look around and make sure you’re on the right path. You do have the choice to create the life you want on your terms.
So, colleagues, you’ve got this! Life’s an adventure, and I don’t need to remind you that it is short, very short!
You’re the main character and creator of your story. Make choices that bring you happiness and a sense of purpose. We have the freedom of choice, some harder to make than others, especially as we consider the team, the organization and our families. Try to focus on the choices that also work for you!
If you are ready for a change, then go for it! Why not live your best life now?
Wishing you lots of joy, high fives, and a fantastic journey in whatever you choose in 2024! It’s OK to think about what you want and what’s best for YOU!
If you are trying to navigate your next move and you want an ear to help you see the tree through the fog, connect with me on LinkedIn!
Nicole Dhanraj, Ph.D., SHRM-SCP, PMP, GPHR, CPSS, CRA, R.T(R)(CT)(MR), is an experienced imaging director.
