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Pump the brakes on your week and take 10 minutes to make your life as a surgeon just a little better…

Jeff welcomes to the podcast retired orthopedic surgeon and leader, Dr. Richard Barry.

As surgeons, thoughtful introspection and honest communication are the keys to balancing our personal and emotional availability with our professional commitments.

Introspective communication refers to the practice of looking inward to examine one's thoughts, feelings, and motivations. It involves engaging in honest self-dialogue, which is crucial for understanding oneself and improving how we communicate with others. This form of communication can help clarify our intentions, desires, and values, leading to more meaningful interactions with others.

Starting in residency and continuing into practice, we need to regularly reassess our own behavioral patterns and make improvements where necessary. 

Improved interpersonal communication is a teachable skill. We need to create wellness programs within our organizations that foster effective introspection and interpersonal communication skills.

What steps does Rich suggest we take to improve our introspection and communication skills?

• Step 1 - Reduce unspoken and unmet expectations.
• Step 2 - Be present and listen carefully.
• Step 3 - Encourage personal feedback.

Most importantly, PRACTICE introspective communication!

BIO

Rich Barry is a retired orthopaedic surgeon living in Northern California. Prior to medical school and residency, he served as an Air Force C-130 pilot on a combat tour in Vietnam. After serving in the Air Force, he was in private practice in Davis California for over 20 years. He served as a clinical faculty member for the U.C. Davis Department of Orthopaedics.Rich is a past-President of the California Orthopaedic Association and a past-Chair of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons’ Board of Councilors. Rich and his wife remain active in the Lamplighters Orthopaedic Association, a leadership alumni group of Fellows and their spouses.He is married, and is very proud of their three children, and 4 grandchildren.

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PRACTICE Your Best!