Finding Your Why

Your “Why”:

The path to pursue a medical journey is excruciatingly difficult, to say the least. This is not a four-year bachelor’s degree we’re talking about, right? We're talking about a good 12 years of just school to have a chance at a high-paying position. In short, this journey is not for the weak-minded and faint-hearted. It's a HARD path. To fully pull through to that gloriously satisfying title of Doctor Frankenstein MD (hehehe oooh) you need to have a “why”. This “why”, your deepest reason why you chose to embark on this journey knowing the sacrifices and the toil required, serves as your guiding light, illuminating this twisted path through challenges and triumphs. 

At the core of every great endeavor lies a sense of purpose– a driving force that kindles the fire in our bellies, fuelling our actions and shaping our decisions. Purpose gives our goals meaning, and gives them the passion required to see it through to the end. Pause right now, and think for a minute, of at least one physician you admire who devotes their life to helping others, driven by a deep-rooted thirst to do everything they have to make a difference in the world. Their sense of purpose, as they made more and more progress, instilled a hunger to pursue their dreams, getting closer and closer day by day, guiding them through the rigors of medical school and the complexities of patient care. 

So, ask yourself: Why do you want to be a doctor? Because of the six-figure mansion, you can buy with the payout. 

But why?

So you don't have to worry about crazy loans and can spend to your heart’s content? For the double takes of every single person who glances at you in a white coat? 

Why?

To finally be financially independent? To finally gain the respect that you've yearned for all your life?

Why? 

Keep asking yourself “Why?” Why do I want to pursue this path when I can probably get the same salary in a much easier way? You’d be surprised how many people will change the entire trajectory of their career after realizing that their “why” for pursuing this path of medicine is not worth the work required. However, those who have their way deeply etched into their soul, simply brush off the long years of work required. Fulfilling their why easily outweighs the obstacles along the way. By understanding your “why”, you lay the foundation of a purpose-driven career that brings fulfillment and joy. 

But make no mistake– pursuing a career in medicine, as I said, is no easy feat. From the rigorous demands of medical school to the emotional toll of caring for patients in the darkest hour, the road ahead will be packed with challenges. However it is in these moments of hardship that your sense of purpose will shine brightest. When you feel like quitting, remember why you started. Let your “why” be your North Star, guiding you through the storm and leading you toward the light. 

And remember: you’re not alone. Millions of starry-eyed students just like you, have walked this path, each with their “why” guiding their way. I encourage you to use this platform to share your story to inspire others and foster a community of people united in their passion for medicine. Together, we can have each other’s backs, as we give our all to make a difference in the world. With your “why” as your compass, you’ll never lose sight of the treasure through this winding trail.

 And I can’t wait to see what’s waiting for you at the end of it.