The Art of Healing: What’s Your Creative Outlet

“Be sure to always maintain some creative interests outside of medicine.”  Dad

The daily practice of medicine requires innovative problem-solving, adaptability, and the ever-dynamic challenges of human interaction.  Indeed, on the surface the work of a clinician would seem to be inherently creative.  Yet too often the relentless pace, long hours, and clinical repetition of patient care can cause a dulling of our professional creative edge.  What if restoring that “creative sharpness” required an outlet—such as writing, painting, music, cooking, dance, photography, or gardening—that not only offered professional restoration and a renewed sense of self beyond the white coat, but was also a powerful antidote to professional burnout and a connection to deeper meaning in our work?

When I was entering medical school, my father, who is also a physician, made it a point to encourage me to not get so caught up in my studies that I didn’t maintain connection to some creative interests outside of schoolwork.  Indeed, our classmates used to joke that medical school admitted us because of our many achievements and ability to demonstrate mastery in areas beyond our studies, and then we were expected to give all these things up to focus on medicine.  I’ve carried his wise words with me throughout my career, and I credit my creative outlets, including writing and music (particularly poetry and singing) with helping me to stay grounded (and at times, sane) throughout my challenging but rewarding career.

Research supports his wise words.  A 2023 study found a positive association between healthcare professionals’ regular involvement in hobbies and non-medical outside interests and lower rates of burnout. This would seem to make sense psychologically, as creative outlets provide a mental escape from the intensity of clinical work, allowing the brain to shift gears and recover from constant high-stakes decision-making. Additionally, creativity fosters emotional resilience, helping clinicians navigate the emotional toll of patient care with greater ease.

Yet, many clinicians hesitate to carve out time for non-medical passions or insist they do not have time, believing it to be a luxury rather than a necessity. We also often struggle with trying new things that we’re not immediately “good at.”  The irony is that the focus, creativity, and open-mindedness required to learn new things can enhance our medical practice by bringing fresh energy and new perspectives allowing deeper presence, keener listening, and innovative thinking. 

So, what’s your creative outlet? If you don’t have one (or it has gone dormant), consider exploring something that brings you joy without feeling pressure.  Here’s a link for some ideas.  Remember, the goal isn’t perfection; it’s presence.  This week, carve out at least one time for “creative expression.”  This could literally be minutes.  As a “stretch,” share your intention with your PeerRx buddy or another colleague, and over time perhaps your “creations” as well.  I do with my buddies, and it’s been a wonderful way to provide each other encouragement and affirmation.  You may be pleasantly surprised how doing this transforms not only your well-being and your approach to medicine but also enhances your relationship to yourself – and each other. 

Thanks for the advice, Dad ....