Let’s be honest—career management is never easy. But when you’re a doctor, it can feel downright impossible. After years (or decades!) of intense training, dedication, and identity wrapped up in the title ‘doctor,’ the idea of doing something different can be both thrilling… and completely overwhelming.
I’ve had the privilege of working closely with doctors who are at that exact crossroads. Some are burnt out, some are simply curious about what else is out there, and some feel stuck but can’t quite name why. Whatever the reason, it’s always a brave step to even start the conversation.
Over time, three big themes have emerged from these coaching journeys:
1. ‘Just tell me what to do!’
But here’s the magic of coaching: it’s not about answers—it’s about questions. Powerful, thought-provoking, sometimes slightly uncomfortable questions that help you reconnect with who you are, what matters to you, and where you want to go next.
In other words, you get to ‘ seize the reins of your career—and steer it wherever feels right for you. That’s liberating (and yes, a bit scary too).
2. Doctors are amazing at compassion — just not always for themselves
Doctors care for their patients, their colleagues, and their teams with incredible empathy and care. But when it comes to themselves? They can be their own toughest critics.
Part of coaching is helping doctors turn that compassion inward. Because when you start to treat yourself with the same kindness and patience you offer others, everything shifts. Energy comes back. Confidence grows. You start to believe change is possible.
3. The power of space — to just be
This is something I hear a lot: I don’t feel seen.
Or: No one ever really asks how I’m doing.
Or simply: I’m exhausted.
For many doctors, coaching is the only place they get to pause and reflect without being rushed, judged, or expected to have all the answers. Just being heard—really heard—can be deeply healing. And often, that’s where the clarity starts to come.
Career management is hard—but it’s not impossible
Yes, it’s tough:
But here’s the good news: there are ways forward.
I can help you bridge the gap between knowing who you are and finding real-world options that fit.
And yes, it’s okay if you don’t know what you want.
One of the biggest challenges doctors face? Coming up with ideas. Sometimes they just… draw a blank.
Career exploration is messy, creative, and often non-linear. It involves brainstorming, personality tools, curiosity, and a bit of experimenting. It’s a journey.
Coaching won’t give you a magic answer—but it will give you structure, support, and a safe space to think things through.
So tune in to what’s pulling at you and seize the reins of your career.
Contact me for a free exploratory session: Gilly.careers@gmail.com
