Ep. 20 - Why Taking a Career Break as a Medic Might be the Best Thing you Ever do

Update: 2025-06-24

Description

We speak with Dr. Sam Anthony about her transformative journey through cancer, burnout, and her revolutionary concept of 'Permitted to Pause.'

Dr. Sam shares her life-changing experiences and emphasizes the importance of giving oneself permission to take breaks, whether for health reasons or purely for rest. The conversation uncovers the personal and professional impacts of her illness and burnout, and the strategies she now employs to ensure her well-being. The episode also touches on the systemic issues in medical training and career paths that contribute to burnout and the urgent need for planned career breaks. A truly inspiring episode for anyone curious about self-care and the power of taking a step back to recharge and reflect.

00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Welcome
00:30 Episode Overview and Key Questions
01:16 Introducing Dr. Sam Anthony
01:29 Dr. Sam's Journey: Cancer and Burnout
01:52 The Concept of 'Permitted to Pause'
02:23 The Importance of Taking Breaks
03:08 Personal Reflections and Experiences
11:29 The Role of Guilt and Permission
15:38 Practical Steps for Taking a Career Break
18:40 Support Systems and Returning to Work
22:23 Advocating for Structured Breaks
30:45 Super Doctor Syndrome and Medical Identity
35:08 Embracing Limitations and Teamwork in Medicine
35:31 The Perils of Perfectionism in Healthcare
36:10 Self-Compassion and Wellbeing for Doctors
37:05 Reflecting on Good and Bad Days
40:19 Creating Space and Leaving Work at Work
41:28 Prioritizing Self-Care and Setting Boundaries
45:02 The Impact of Cancer on Perspective and Prioritization
56:23 The Lifelong Journey of Recovery
01:01:03 Finding Purpose and Gratitude in Medicine
01:03:39 Final Thoughts and Advice for Doctors

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Find Dr Sam Anthony on instagram @permittedtopause and on her website

Doctors in Distress Guest Blog: Granting Ourselves Permission – Why Is It So Hard? by Dr Samantha Anthony

BMJ Blogs: Career breaks should be supported, not feared - by Dr Samantha Anthony

Dr Marc Brackett - Permission to Feel book which Emily mentioned.

Flex Appeal (#flexappeal) - the campaign for more flexible working for everyone – from Anna Whitehouse and Matt Farquharson of Mother Pukka

Wellness wonder: Sick Doctors’ Trust

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