In the field of medicine, a prevalent ethos of humility is firmly established. Medical practitioners are frequently encouraged to emphasize modesty over arrogance, minimizing personal accomplishments while concentrating on their duties. Even when they achieve notable successes, openly recognizing these milestones is usually shunned, and opportunities for celebration are infrequent. For many in this profession, pride equates to ego and self-importance, potentially appearing insensitive to colleagues experiencing difficulties.
Numerous physicians are taught to attribute their accomplishments to collaboration, chance, or diligence, rather than crediting them to their own skills or inherent value. This inclination to shy away from praise and reroute recognition is nearly automatic. Nevertheless, this tendency to continually diminish one’s achievements might signify a deeper concern—a disconnect from one’s own significance, influence, and purpose.
For some individuals, becoming aware of this disconnect can bring about profound changes. In coaching contexts, physicians are occasionally prompted to reflect on what feelings they wish to experience more frequently in life, with the response of “pride” often being eye-opening and disconcerting. This reluctance to accept pride can spark a revelation, as people come to understand that they rarely permit themselves to feel proud of their accomplishments, whether in medical practice, team leadership, family raising, or initiating programs for helping others.
In supportive environments like coaching sessions, when directly asked about their pride, physicians may first encounter discomfort. However, as they begin to articulate their thoughts, their responses are insightful and show tremendous personal courage and integrity, quite distant from any idea of perfection or status. These conversations uncover their struggles with health issues, significant professional changes that align with their principles, and milestones in personal development such as establishing boundaries or rethinking their careers.
The prevailing culture in medicine has historically discouraged making oneself distinctive, but acknowledging and celebrating one’s own growth and achievements can be perceived as a form of leadership rather than hubris. By recognizing personal development, physicians can model opportunities for others, aiding in the evolution of the medical culture to prioritize well-being, authenticity, and self-worth.
A recent podcast episode highlighted individual narratives of pride among doctors, eliciting a strong response from listeners who connected with the topic. The episode emphasized how presenting oneself genuinely and with confidence as a proud individual can impact and motivate others, fostering a culture where genuine human connection and authenticity are paramount.
Dr. Jessie Mahoney, a pediatrician and coach, advocates for this viewpoint. Through her initiatives in mindfulness, coaching, and retreats, she inspires physicians to acknowledge their self-worth and promote a more human-focused medical culture. By doing so, they can lead not just through their technical expertise, but with intention, presence, and empathy.
The straightforward act of identifying what one takes pride in can create clarity, which subsequently anchors individuals in integrity, improving their capacity to lead and serve effectively. This personal recognition nurtures the individual and those around them, transforming the medical culture into one that honors and harnesses personal growth for wider healing and change.