Career and Life Planning Guidebook for Medical Residents

Proactive or Procrastinator Are you proactive or do you procrastinate? People really do tend to fall into one of those two categories. Knowingwhich group you belong to is vital in forging a plan for your next steps in your career. There are several advantages of starting your transition planning earlier versus later that you may not be aware of. Take time to review the following contrasts…. If you are proactive… If you procrastinate… Planning up front provides an opportunity to identify priorities which simplifies decision making. When rushed in your preparation, your CV may be MISSING important information and your references may be sparse which can negatively impact available job opportunities. Having more time increases your confidence and ability to make decisions that are right for you and your family. With less time to plan, your confidence decreases and so does your ability to make the right decisions for you and your family. You have more time to create a CV that appropriately reflects the entirety of your skillsets. You could become reactive and panicky often leading to poor decision making. You can focus on preparing for boards, finishing residency, completing visa requirements if applicable while finishing your residency. You have less time to work with your training administrators to identify an optimal interview schedule so you attend fewer interviews. You can complete the licensing application process ON TIME which you will need for your boards. You may lose out on the best job opportunities to suit your needs resulting in limited options (location, compensation, leverage for negotiations, etc.) You can work with your training administrators to identify a schedule to allow timely attendance to interviews. It may take longer to find the right job with the right fit. You have more time to evaluate fellowship options and negotiate contracts if you are securing a job right after training. You may not be able to start work right away because you haven’t completed the state licensing process – You’re more likely to find a fellowship position or job that meets all of your personal and professional needs. You risk taking a job that pays the bills but leaves you unhappy, dissatisfied, and quitting after a short time. SECTION I: T MINUS THREE YEARS CAREER AND LIFE PLANNING GUIDEBOOK FOR MEDICAL RESIDENTS 20