**Doctors Are Destined to Assist: Recognizing Authentic Worth Beyond Qualifications**
Physicians are celebrated for their dedication to helping others. From overnight shifts to taking on additional responsibilities for peers and delivering outstanding care to their patients, the vocation requires an unwavering sense of commitment. This inherent desire to assist, however, may sometimes morph into an urge to gain affirmation through the acquisition of numerous credentials. Many doctors facing exhaustion in their clinical positions begin to contemplate alternative routes. Instead of utilizing their amassed knowledge and expertise to revolutionize or improve patient care, they frequently find themselves pondering, “What qualification do I need to become a _____?”
The unexpected response often is: none. Certifications are indeed useful instruments. They provide structure and enhance confidence as physicians explore new domains. However, they can inadvertently turn into an accepted method of procrastination, hindering individuals from engaging with the world based on their true capabilities.
When I shifted from emergency medicine, I didn’t immediately pursue new certifications. My focus was on assisting others: one patient or colleague at a time. Without a comprehensive business strategy or elaborate plan, I simply addressed the questions presented to me. This method allowed my career to mature organically and meaningfully. Eventually, I sought board certification in obesity medicine and will soon take the lifestyle medicine boards, but solely for personal advancement, not external recognition.
A pivotal realization dawned along my path: Service does not mean self-neglect or personal disappearance. Genuine service involves contributing where you’re most needed, which doesn’t always coincide with where you’re most qualified. I often advise doctors who yearn for enhanced freedom, purpose, and time. They frequently inquire if obtaining certification as a coach or pursuing additional education is the correct route. My counsel: perhaps later, but not at this moment. First, clarify whom you wish to assist, recognize your current knowledge, and evaluate the real-world value you can provide today.
Additional academic degrees aren’t necessarily an indication of compassion. What we truly need are more physicians eager to engage in authentic dialogues. Doctors who understand that their life experiences are sufficient to start anew. Imperfect yet adequate.
If you’re pondering whether a new certification is essential before starting a side project or helping people in different ways, take this as your affirmation: You don’t need it. Your extensive experience has already established your credibility. The narratives, obstacles surmounted, and solutions you’ve created exemplify your service. Do not allow extra courses to hinder the meaningful work you are inherently prepared to undertake.
**About the Author**
*Dr. Maureen Gibbons*, both accomplished and introspective, transitioned from a gratifying emergency medicine career to one where her expertise now provides significant health, emotional, and financial rewards. With over 25 years of experience guiding as an athletic trainer, triathlon coach, sports nutritionist, and physician, she established *Active Medical Solutions*, a lifestyle medical practice. She innovated an EMR for asynchronous care and directs professionals towards enhanced health and fulfilling career trajectories.
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