Slow Rheumatology

By Dr Irwin Lim, Rheumatologist

My wife and I were given this book by a friend a couple of years ago. It contains some good insights which I think she thought we needed (and she needed herself).

I’m sure you know how we feel. Often time poor, with every increasing demands. Patients needs. Staff wants. Business must-dos. Family essentials.

We’ve instituted a few things to slow our lives but more can be done.

A large part of my mission in life is to be an effective person, and that includes, being an effective rheumatologist.

I’m a naturally speedy person so for me to improve myself, I know I have to learn to be slower and to take more time with people and with important stuff.

So that’s my New Year’s resolution for 2015.

I share it with you because I find that by writing things down, I’m more committed to the task and tend to make it happen.

The 3 big practical steps I’m taking:

• This little hourglass now sits on my workdesk. I don’t actually need to turn it to see the sand flow. As I feel rushed, I’m just going to look at it. My visual cue.
• Get better at saying “No”. There are many requests, demands, invites to be dealt with. Guilt and a sense of responsibility can often lead to saying yes too often, and that leads to an increasingly packed calendar. I’m going to be a polite refuser.
• From April, I’ve blocked off all my patient appointments on Wednesdays. A very big step for me. Less time to see patients but a day to do the stuff that always piles up when one if consulting. Also a day to attend to my own needs: exercise, reading, thinking, etc…..

Welcome 2015!

I wish you all a great year, with effective time & good health to pursue your resolutions.

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