Success and happiness are often determined by where we place our focus: within ourselves or on external factors. Mastery lies in asking the right questions, and understanding the locus of control is a key part of this. Those who focus on what they can influence are generally happier and more successful. In this episode, we explore the philosophy behind the locus of control, its impact on burnout, the importance of small bets in making significant changes, and state vs. trait gratitude. Finally, we delve into practical strategies to cultivate a more resilient mindset💡 Check out our Free Resources specifically designed to address pain points in medical practice💡Guest Bio: Dan Mccollum, MD is an emergency physician and Director of Teaching and Learning at the Medical College of Georgia. Hear more of Dan on Stimulus episodes #1 Verbal Judo #14 Stoic With A Capital S, #25 Digital Minimalism, and #59 Aim to Be A Zero.We Discuss:Waiting room medicine has become the norm. It's not ideal. So what do you do about it?The power of placing small betsStoicism and the philosophy behind locus of controlSome things in the world are up to us; others are notSextus, "The crowd is irrelevant."What is the locus of control?Shades of gray in the locus of controlThe Stoic approach to patient complaintsTaming the blame ogreDomains of control and the paradox of varied strengthThe Stoic approach to patient complaintsHow a mishandled aspirin overdose led to a major recalibration of control locusA tactical approach to developing an internal locus of controlThe 'Good' reframeThe five slices of gift exerciseThe jar of awesomePower of an end-of-day debriefTrait vs. state of gratitudeNot every approach is for everybodyBook recommendations for operationalizing an internal locus of controlMentioned in this episode:5 Free Tools To Make Medical Practice EasierScripts for your least favorite conversations.
The quick and dirty guide to calling consults.
A 10-minute "Driveway Debrief" to switch off from work.
My favorite documentation templates.
Step-by-step guide for delivering the news of death.
Free Resources LinkAwake + Aware Bend May 5-7, 2025 | Our in person live event Ready to reset, recharge, and level up?
Awake + Aware is a game-changing 3-day workshop where you will learn how to stay cool when the pressure’s on and lock in the mindset you need to flourish. Space is limited.

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