Waking up from my first
nap since I began this program will definitely be a memory to cherish! Naps
don't come by very often as a medical student; well at least not with me. I
have begun my 4th week of my MERP program and just finished my last quiz before
my first Mini (Exam) of the program and I wanted to reflect on what
has gotten me through these past few weeks.
Trying to balance learning new material, reviewing old material, attempting to get at least 4 hours of sleep a night, along with eating a well-balanced diet, have all been
difficult to say the least but not impossible. A few things I have found to really keep my spirits
lifted through this journey include: relationships, relaxation and imperfection.
When I first began this
program, I told many people I would be very busy and if I don't respond to a
text or call, please do not get offended. I later realized, regardless of the
circumstances you find yourself in, you make time for things that are important
to you. I have found great peace in those phone and Face Time conversations
with friends, family and of course my dogs. I love the encouraging text, the jokes and especially the funny Memes;
sometimes those laughs me get through the day. If I can give you one word of
advice, it would be to never forget the people who helped you get to where you
are. There will always be rough days when you have had enough and just want to
de-stress; make sure you have those shoulders to lean on and haven't burned
those bridges because you were too busy.
Relaxation may seem like
an impossible feat while being a medical student but I have found that being
relaxed is one of the most important things during this journey. Most of the
time, chaos does not yield success. Being a medical student or being in any
rigorous academic program is physically, mentally and emotionally draining and
in order to perform well, your mind must be at ease. I choose to make church,
prayer and exercising my priorities next to studying and talking to
family. I always
carve out time in my day to pray, go to church on Sundays and do small
exercises in my room (I have been so busy and haven’t made it to the gym yet),
whether it’s ab work outs, stretching or breathing exercises. It’s important
to take care of yourself because you need the physical, emotional and spiritual
stamina to get through it. Try to keep studying and free time separate. Study
time is study time and free time is free time and always remember, it’s a
marathon, not a sprint!
Lastly,
be content with imperfection. Some people get so caught up in studying and
striving for perfection that they forget to enjoy the journey. Don’t get so caught
up in figuring everything out that you forget to enjoy the ride. Always strive
for excellence, not perfection because those of excellence live comfortably but
perfectionist don’t live at all! I will be taking my first Mini exam on Sept 9th. It's a 2hr 45min exam so please keep me in your prayers for a good outcome! Thanks for reading ❤️
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