Reflections & Motivations
Recently I was asked to join an advisory board for a well-known up and coming pharmaceutical company many of you would recognize. To be honest, I was a bit humbled and flattered anyone in that world even took notice of my writing or anything I do. Flashes of imposter syndrome - which I know all too well...
It got me thinking – and I’m now struck by the complexity of attempting to explain or justify my driving motivations to write and publish. For several years, I’ve been posting on social media describing & discussing various clinical scenarios, philosophies of practice, bioethical thoughts, some books for OD’s and general physicians, and now this newsletter.
It all comes with some serious introspection…
Am I really writing purely to teach? Is it to gain recognition in optometry, ophthalmology, medicine, financial gain, or perhaps something deeper? Is it just ego? Personal therapy? I don’t believe I’ve known exactly why – it just sort of happens – and seems to need to happen. Perhaps the hard truth to admit is maybe it’s all the above.
I have learned, however, it is not uncommon for those of us in later stages of our careers to feel inspired or compelled to teach and give back. There are several theories why this happens – or maybe just in our DNA.
Writing can be a deeply personal and introspective process. For me, it surprisingly became a form of therapy, which began after the death of my mom and then my son. It has allowed me to reflect on clinical experiences and organize my thoughts. In practice, it helps clarify my understanding of complex scenarios and satisfies my urge to keep learning to do better – a therapeutic intellectual exercise.
So I’m questioning whether my efforts are truly altruistic. That little dopamine hit if someone gives you a thumbs up or comment on social media. Does it really matter? It’s an uncomfortable thought - seeking or needing validation and visibility from strangers while striving to remain grounded in the core mission of helping people.
I believe acknowledging all the above does not detract from the authenticity of what I or we do. Instead, perhaps it’s the complexity of just being human and the various ways we seek to make our mark on the world.
Thanks for being here and hope it all matters…
John
P.S. If you’re an OD looking to strengthen your medical authority and grow your practice, I’ve put together a free clinical resource:
“5 Mistakes ODs Make That Undermine Their Medical Authority"...AND How to Fix.
PDF (Free) Instant Download: HERE.
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Listen on Amazon HERE.
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