Confidence has always been a bit of a double-edged sword in my line of work. As an orthopedic surgeon, there’s an expectation to project certainty, especially when making critical decisions in the operating room. But I’ve found that the pressure to always “have it together” can sometimes backfire, making me second-guess myself in unexpected ways.
For example, I’ve noticed that when I’m overly focused on projecting confidence, I can become less open to collaboration or feedback, which is counterproductive in a field that thrives on teamwork. It’s almost like the more I try to appear confident, the more I risk isolating myself from the very people who could help me grow.
I’m curious has anyone else experienced this kind of tension between projecting confidence and staying open to learning? How do you strike that balance, especially in high-stakes environments? And for those who’ve navigated similar challenges, what strategies have helped you maintain confidence without letting it become a barrier?
On a lighter note, I’ve also found that stepping away from the OR and diving into my other interests like oceanography or vintage collecting helps me reset and approach challenges with a fresh perspective. Maybe there’s something to be said about finding confidence outside of work, too. Would love to hear your thoughts!