- Health and Wellness:
- Start weight training for graceful aging.
- Invest in mental and physical health.
- Prioritize potentially physically-strenuous travel destinations first.
- Move more, make social life a priority, learn to cook, pray, and stay positive.
- Take good care of your teeth.
- Listen to your body and prioritize self-care.
- Financial Planning:
- Open a Roth IRA.
- Automate investing and check annually.
- Get disability and life insurance early.
- Start saving early and explore investment opportunities.
- Understand financial terms like Roth IRA, compounding interest, 1099 vs W2 income, and the importance of dollar-cost averaging.
- Learn about contracts, including their negotiation and what to look for.
- Consider the pros and cons of different job types (e.g., hospital-employed vs private practice).
- Prioritize work-life balance in job selection.
- Plan for retirement and know how much you need for a comfortable retirement.
- Understand disability insurance policies and invest wisely.
- Consider the financial implications of divorce and marriage.
- Career and Professional Development:
- Pursue what you love and understand your fundamental motivation.
- Explore non-clinical career paths.
- Learn about estate planning, taxes, and malpractice coverage.
- Advocate for yourself and your patients, and know your value.
- Keep learning and challenging biases.
- Understand the business side of medicine.
- Know your options and be willing to walk away from situations that don’t serve you.
- Personal Growth and Relationships:
- Make time for loved ones, including spouse and children.
- Invest in relationships and prioritize family over work.
- Take vacations and prioritize self-care.
- Seek support and advice from colleagues, mentors, and professionals.
- Understand the importance of boundaries and self-awareness.
- Pursue activities outside of medicine for personal fulfillment.
- Learn to manage stress and seek help for mental health issues.
- Miscellaneous:
- Freeze eggs for women considering fertility options.
- Use sunscreen on exposed skin.
- Consider the implications of different types of insurance and contracts.
- Stay curious and open to learning.
- Have an exit plan and be prepared for change.
- Read recommended books for financial and personal growth.
