Physicians often seek side hustles as a way to explore creativity, expand their skill sets, or even diversify their income. But how do you find the right balance between professional growth and personal fulfillment? At Lucens, we believe that side projects should bring joy and meaning without detracting from your primary responsibilities as a physician.
This week, we asked Omar Shakir, MD to share his thoughts on balancing clinical work with side projects and how to make these pursuits an enriching part of your life.
Question:
I’ve been thinking about starting a side project—how do I choose something that fits with everything else I’m already doing?”
– Submitted by J.T., Illinois
Omar:
Having a side project can be a great way to enrich your life, but it doesn’t always need to be about making money. It should add something meaningful—whether that’s personally, professionally, physically, or mentally. If your side gig doesn’t do at least one of those things, it’s probably just a distraction.
For me, the idea of writing children’s books has always been appealing. I have a daughter, and another on the way, and the thought of creating something fun and imaginative for them feels meaningful. It’s not about business; it’s about flexing creativity and doing something personal. That’s the kind of project that adds to your life rather than taking away from it.
The key to balance starts with prioritizing your main career. If you’re a doctor or surgeon, that’s where your focus should remain. You can’t just say, “I’ve got this figured out, now I’ll dive into something else.” Think of it like being a professional athlete.
Even the best athletes don’t stop working with a coach once they’ve made it to the top. They’re always refining their skills, pushing themselves to grow, and aiming for the next level.
That same mindset applies to medicine.
Once you’re confident in that foundation, a side gig can be a natural extension of your life. It should feel exciting and fulfilling, not like another job. When you choose something that resonates with you—whether it’s for your mental well-being, physical health, or sheer joy—it won’t compete with your priorities. Instead, it will complement them and make your experience richer.
That’s how balance happens. It’s not forced. It’s about finding something that genuinely speaks to you and fits into the rhythm of your life.
The Bottom Line
Balancing a side project with clinical responsibilities is about finding something that complements your primary career and enriches your life. For Dr. Omar, the idea of writing children’s books wasn’t just a creative outlet—it was a meaningful way to connect with his family. The right side gig won’t feel like an obligation or a drain. Instead, it will become a natural and fulfilling part of your life.
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