Physician Productivity Strategies that Keep You On Time, Part 1 | Ep480

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In this episode, host Dr. Bradley Block welcomes Dr. Cheryl Chase, to discuss common challenges faced by high-achieving physicians, such as task overload, time management struggles, procrastination, and balancing demanding caseloads with home life. Dr. Chase shares evidence-based strategies like habit-building techniques from Atomic Habits, pairing tasks with rewards, breaking down large projects, and setting boundaries to minimize distractions. She emphasizes that these tools, originally for neurodiverse clients, can enhance efficiency for all professionals pushing their limits. Tune in for part 1, with more on self-monitoring and persistence in part 2 next week. This episode is essential for physicians seeking to sharpen focus, reduce guilt, and reclaim work-life balance.

Three Actionable Takeaways:

1. Build Habits Over Willpower – For boring tasks like charting, make cues visible (e.g., set up your workspace for easy access), pair them with rewards (e.g., a favorite tea after completion), and eliminate aversive elements (e.g., adjust your environment to avoid distractions) to increase compliance without relying on sheer grit.
2. Break Down Large Tasks and Minimize Distractions – Tackle complex projects like mandatory modules or side gigs by dividing them into small steps, setting timers or task goals, and using techniques like tone tapes (variable alarms) to self-check focus; reward persistence to maintain motivation.
3. Set Firm Boundaries for Work-Life Balance – Establish clear rules for interruptions (e.g., airplane mode during deep work), secure reliable childcare to close mental "browser tabs," and communicate availability with family and colleagues to stay present at work or home without guilt.

About the Show:

Succeed In Medicine covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!

About the Guest:

Dr. Cheryl Chase is a licensed clinical psychologist in Independence, Ohio, specializing in assessments and treatments for ADHD, learning disorders, and emotional challenges across the lifespan. She's an international speaker on executive functioning, dyslexia, co-regulation, and performance improvement in work and school settings. Her strategies help high-achievers, including physicians, enhance efficiency and balance.

Website: https://chasingyourpotential.com

About the host:

Dr. Bradley Block – Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts The Succeed In Medicine podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physicians

Want to be a guest? Email Brad at [email protected] or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!

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