#209: The Trap Of External Validation & How To Break Free

11/13/24 • 21 min

The Joyful DVM Podcast: Empowering Veterinary Professionals

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the significant issue of external validation within the veterinary field and provides strategies for overcoming this challenge.

External validation is defined as the need for outside affirmation to confirm one's worth or correctness in actions. The academic environment perpetuates the belief that grades are synonymous with self-worth. Many students enter veterinary programs already grappling with insecurities, and the pressure to excel can create a cycle of anxiety, where temporary relief is experienced upon receiving good grades.

Dr. Wise stresses that veterinary professionals do not have control over patient outcomes or client behaviors. The emotional states of clients influence their actions, and veterinary professionals cannot dictate how clients feel or respond.

The dependence on patient outcomes and client interactions as indicators of success can lead to burnout and dissatisfaction within the profession. Dr. Wise encourages veterinary professionals to understand that their self-worth is not dependent on external factors.

Dr. Wise advocates for a transformative shift in mindset, urging veterinary professionals to concentrate on their responsibilities and efforts rather than seeking external validation. She underscores the importance of recognizing that mistakes and adverse outcomes are inherent to the practice of veterinary medicine. Embracing this fundamental truth can reduce pressure and cultivate a healthier relationship with their work.

Dr. Wise concludes by reminding her audience that perfection is an unattainable goal in veterinary medicine (and life); and that accepting the human experience, including errors, is crucial for both personal and professional development.

Key takeaways include:

The education system promotes reliance on external validation, causing anxiety and self-doubt in students.
Veterinary professionals measure success through patient outcomes and client satisfaction.
Many veterinarians internalize negative outcomes, feeling responsible for patients who do not improve or challenging client interactions.
Dr. Wise emphasizes focusing on true responsibilities like exams, histories, recommendations, and treatment plans.
Dr. Wise promotes a shift from perfectionism to accepting human imperfection in veterinary practice.
Listeners are invited to identify their need for external validation and reclaim their power by acknowledging their intrinsic worth.

Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the significant issue of external validation within the veterinary field and provides strategies for overcoming this challenge.

Key takeaways include:

The education system promotes reliance on external validation, causing anxiety and self-doubt in students.
Veterinary professionals measure success through patient outcomes and client satisfaction.
Many veterinarians internalize negative outcomes, feeling responsible for patients who do not improve or challenging client interactions.
Dr. Wise emphasizes focusing on true responsibilities like exams, histories, recommendations, and treatment plans.
Dr. Wise promotes a shift from perfectionism to accepting human imperfection in veterinary practice.
Listeners are invited to identify their need for external validation and reclaim their power by acknowledging their intrinsic worth.

Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

Previous Episode

#208: How Vet Techs Influence Veterinary Culture

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise emphasizes the critical role that veterinary technicians play in the veterinary field. She encourages listeners to express appreciation for the contributions of veterinary technicians, underscoring that their involvement is essential for creating a sustainable career environment in veterinary medicine.

Dr. Wise urges veterinary technicians to recognize that while they share common challenges, their individual responses to these circumstances are crucial. Many technicians fall into a cycle of negativity, which can detract from patient care and client service. Veterinary technicians possess the power to influence their work environment positively. She encourages them to take ownership of their attitudes and interactions, regardless of their feelings of being underappreciated.

The podcast highlights the importance of maintaining a positive attitude, even amidst the chaotic circumstances that are inherent in veterinary medicine. She asserts that technicians can choose their responses and moods, which can significantly influence their colleagues and the overall workplace atmosphere. A positive demeanor can create a ripple effect, encouraging others to adopt a similar outlook, thereby fostering a more supportive and collaborative environment.

Key takeaways include:

Technicians often feel undervalued and face challenges like client dissatisfaction and workplace negativity.
A positive mindset in response to workplace circumstances will benefit all veterinary professionals
Technicians should engage in constructive discussions about their needs, such as pay and scheduling.
A positive attitude among technicians can enhance the entire veterinary team's culture.

Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

Next Episode

#210: The Keys To Happiness In VetMed- Part 1: Own Your Emotion

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise reflects on her previous belief that emotions signify weakness, particularly in a profession that prioritizes logic and scientific reasoning. She recognizes that many veterinary professionals share this perspective, often placing greater importance on data and statistics than on emotional awareness. However, she stresses that emotions are a fundamental aspect of the human experience and are essential for overall happiness and wellbeing.

The podcast addresses the prevalent emotional challenges faced by veterinary professionals, especially those dealing with burnout, stress, and anxiety.

Dr. Wise emphasizes that emotions are not generated by external situations but are instead shaped by one's thoughts about those situations. She encourages listeners to consider that their emotional responses are influenced by their beliefs and perspectives.

The podcast underscores that while negative emotions are a natural part of life, individuals must learn to manage their emotional states intentionally. Dr. Wise encourages listeners to examine their beliefs about their circumstances and actively choose perspectives that foster emotional wellbeing. By doing so, they can cultivate a more positive emotional state, which subsequently influences their behaviors and interactions with others.

Key takeaways include:

Veterinary professionals often prioritize logic over emotions, but both are vital for overall wellbeing.
Emotions arise from personal thoughts and beliefs, not external circumstances.
Job changes may offer temporary relief, but unresolved thought patterns can lead to recurring negative emotions.
Managing emotions is essential for a positive mindset and better relationships.

Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

The Joyful DVM Podcast: Empowering Veterinary Professionals - #209: The Trap Of External Validation & How To Break Free

Transcript

This transcript is auto-generated and may contain typos.
Hi there. I'm Dr. Cari Wise, veterinarian, certified life coach and certified quantum human design specialist. If you're a veterinary professional looking to up level your life and your career, or maybe looking to go in an entirely new direction, then what I talk about here on the Joyful DVM podcast is absolutely for you. Let's get started. Hello my friends. Welcome back to the Joyful DVM podcast. In today's