Dear New Grad: You Don’t Have to Burn Out to Prove Yourself

Welcome to medicine.

No, really — welcome.

Despite the flaws, the dysfunction, the systemic messes, and the never-ending to-do lists… we are truly glad you’re here.

If you’re reading this as a brand new graduate, you’re likely in that bittersweet space where the marathon of schooling has ended — and the next leg of your journey is about to begin. It’s exciting. Terrifying. Exhausting. And full of potential.

Because this is the beginning of your career… and the beginning of a choice.
A choice between following the old path — the one lined with hustle, hidden expectations, and harmful norms.
Or carving a new one — one that allows you to thrive, not just survive.

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The Lie I Believed When I Started

I used to believe that to be valuable in medicine, I had to sacrifice myself.

I thought worthiness was measured in 60-hour weeks, in being paged at 2 a.m., in the number of patients I squeezed into a packed clinic, and in how many times I said “yes” when I really needed to say “no.”

I thought success looked like a six-figure salary, the respect of my physician colleagues, and constant exhaustion worn like a badge of honor.

And I burned out. Badly.

Burnout stripped me of my health, strained my relationships, and left me unrecognizable to my own kids. It nearly cost me my career… and my sense of self.

But here’s what I learned in the wreckage:
Burnout is not your rite of passage.
It’s not a badge of honor.
And it is absolutely not a requirement for success.

What I Wish Someone Had Told Me

You can do this differently. You should do this differently.

You can define success in your own terms — not someone else’s.

You can set boundaries before you hit your breaking point.
You can say “no” and still be a good teammate.
You can negotiate — not just for salary, but for sustainability.

In fact, negotiating is a skill you’ll need to practice early and often. Don’t wait until you’re desperate or depleted. Learn to advocate for what you need now.

Track your value — and I mean actually track it. Record your billing codes, patient volumes, outcomes, and efficiency. Keep a folder of thank-you notes, kudos, and data. Because someday someone will ask you to prove your worth — and you’ll be ready.

Don’t ignore your finances. Money doesn’t buy happiness, but it does buy options — and options are the foundation of freedom.

Understand the business of medicine. Ask questions. Pay attention to how decisions are made, what drives your department or clinic, and how your work contributes to the bottom line.

Most importantly:
If something isn’t working — if a job is breaking you, if a system is failing you — you are allowed to change.

You are encouraged to change.

The Culture is Shifting — And You’re Part of That Change

You are entering healthcare at a time when tides are turning. The old model of self-sacrifice and silent suffering is being challenged.

And you — yes, even as a brand-new graduate — are part of that shift.

Lead by example.
Build the boundaries.
Honor your needs and values.
And don’t be afraid to speak up for yourself and your colleagues.

Today, my success looks very different than it used to.

I work clinically three days a week. I run a business helping other clinicians build sustainable careers. I take my PTO — all of it — and don’t feel an ounce of guilt. I attend my kids’ Halloween parade, spring concert, and bus stop send-offs without apology.

That, to me, is success. And you get to decide what success means to you.

A Final Word of Encouragement

So, here it is — the thing I wish someone had whispered in my ear on day one:

You don’t have to burn out to prove you belong here.

You are allowed to rest. To recalibrate. To change your mind.
You’re allowed to pivot, to grow, to redefine your goals again and again.
You’re allowed to choose a path that honors your whole self — not just your professional identity.

You are allowed to thrive in medicine.

Welcome. We’re glad you’re here.

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Want more guidance on setting boundaries, negotiating with confidence, and building a career that works for you? Subscribe to The PA Is In podcast wherever you listen to podcasts and tune in to this episode now.