How the Physician Leadership Academy Prepared Me For These Uncertain Times

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Docs have a hard time making a commitment when they aren’t sure what their future holds!  The great thing about being a Physicians Leadership Academy (PLA) grad is that I have developed an ability to get quiet with myself and evaluate who I am in this pandemic and what I want as I navigate the “new normal”.  

I also take comfort in knowing that I have a reliable community of like-minded physicians. The PLA team not only cares about me but are a constant source of active support and a sounding board for when I am not feeling so confident and empowered.  While the future may not be certain, I at least feel like I can deal with that unpredictability from a place of peace and perspective.

This time of uncertainty could be an opportunity to end office hours an hour or two early just one day a month. Use this time to cultivate self-awareness and develop a skill set to feel more in control of a life in medicine.

 I always felt relieved on my “PLA days”, because I knew I was ending early and going to learn something amazing with a great group of people.  It was and remains a wonderful gift that I gave myself permission to take.  Five years later, I use my PLA skill set on a daily basis.  My whole new mindset has had a ripple effect on my family and friends. It was well worth the time investment.


If you are interested in learning more about the PLA, then sign up for the virtual information on Tuesday, June 2. Learn more here.

Or, if you’d like to ask Dr. Costa more about her PLA experience then feel free to reach out to her at: stephwcosta@gmail.com