In medicine, the idea of work-life balance often feels like chasing an illusion. Between the demands of patient care, long hours, and constant professional pressure, carving out time for personal life can seem impossible. But balance doesn’t have to mean perfection—it’s about creating boundaries that reflect your priorities and adapting to life’s shifts.
This week, Lucens mentor Roshni Patel, DO shares her perspective on how to define and maintain work-life balance. Her advice centers on setting boundaries, learning to say no, and staying flexible to protect both your well-being and professional growth.
Question:
As a mom and a physician, I sometimes feel like I’m being pulled in too many directions—like I’m not doing enough at home or at work. How do you manage to find space for both without feeling like you’re constantly falling behind?
—J.Q., Texas
I’ve been there, and I can tell you—it’s not about doing everything perfectly, but about finding what works for you and being intentional with your time.
For me, work-life balance isn’t about dividing time equally between work and personal life. Instead, it’s about setting boundaries that align with my values and priorities—and being prepared to adjust them when needed.
Treat personal time with the same respect as professional obligations
Early in my career, I thought I could “find time” for personal activities. Unsurprisingly, that approach didn’t work—I was always too busy or too tired. Now, I treat personal time with the same respect as professional obligations. If I want to exercise, spend time with family, or even just take a mental health break, I block it off in my calendar. These moments are non-negotiable, just like a meeting or patient appointment. By being proactive, I make sure my personal life has the time and space it deserves.
Protect your time and energy by setting limits without guilt
I’ve also learned the power of saying no. Early on, I felt compelled to say yes to everything—extra shifts, new projects, additional responsibilities—because I wanted to prove myself. But I quickly realized that constantly saying yes wasn’t sustainable. Learning to say no isn’t about letting others down; it’s about protecting your time, energy, and well-being. It’s okay to set limits, even if it feels uncomfortable at first.
Flexibility as the Key to Balance
Lastly, I’ve found that balance requires flexibility. Boundaries are essential, but life is unpredictable. If I need to work late to catch up on patient care or handle an unexpected responsibility, I adjust my schedule to create personal time later. This adaptability reduces stress and lets me stay focused on what matters most, both personally and professionally.
The Bottom Line
Work-life balance doesn’t mean having everything perfectly divided—it’s about aligning your time and energy with what truly matters. As Roshni highlights, setting boundaries, saying no when needed, and building flexibility into your schedule can help you stay grounded. It’s not about achieving a perfect balance every day but about creating a sustainable rhythm that supports both your career and personal life.
Have a question about work-life balance or career growth? Let the mentors know! Submit your question here.
Don’t miss out on insights like this. Subscribe to our newsletter, The Dose, for weekly advice from Lucens mentors.
