Optimal health for a physician hinges on regular, meaningful breaks from the whirlwind of practice.
One of the most effective ways to do this is by taking a two-week vacation—every single year. Yet, American doctors stand out globally as the only group of physicians who don’t regularly prioritize this essential practice.
In this episode, I’ll explain:
- Why American doctors struggle to take extended breaks.
- A step-by-step formula to book and enjoy a real two-week vacation without sabotaging yourself.
- How to use this time to reset your energy, recharge your reserves, and restore your enthusiasm for being a helper, healer, and light worker.
Let’s get started.
Why American Doctors Struggle with Vacations
Over the last 14 years, I’ve trained over 40,000 physicians in burnout prevention and leadership skills. One question I frequently ask during live sessions is:
“Who has a two-week vacation scheduled on their calendar right now?”
When I ask this question outside the U.S.—in countries like Australia, Canada, or Europe—most hands go up. Doctors there see this as completely normal. They even look at me as if I’m crazy for asking.
But in the U.S., only a handful of hands go up, usually around five out of 200. And again, the response is similar: “Is he crazy? A two-week vacation?”
When I asked American doctors why they don’t take these breaks, I kept hearing the same answer:
“It’s too much brain damage.”
The Self-Sabotaging Cycle
When I dug deeper into what they meant by “brain damage,” here’s what I found:
- Before the Vacation: Doctors schedule patient appointments right up until the plane takes off.
- During the Vacation: They answer calls and emails from the office or hospital, sometimes even giving orders remotely.
- After the Vacation: They return to a mountain of work, often seeing patients the same day they land.
This pattern undermines the purpose of a vacation. Instead of recharging, doctors come back feeling just as drained—or worse. This is a uniquely American form of self-sabotage, rooted in workaholic programming.
Why a Real Vacation Matters
Without regular, restorative breaks, your career becomes increasingly exhausting. Your family grows frustrated, and you feel like you’re missing out on life. A true vacation can help you:
- Reset your energy levels.
- Recharge your reserves.
- Restore your enthusiasm for your work.
During tough days, having a scheduled vacation on the horizon can serve as a beacon of hope—a reminder that relief is on the way.
The Step-by-Step Formula for a Real Two-Week Vacation
Step 1: Get a Year-at-a-Glance Wall Calendar
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- Purchase a wall calendar that displays all 12 months on one sheet.
- With your significant other, look far enough ahead to find two consecutive weeks to block off.
- Use a marker to reserve those 14 days and place the calendar somewhere you’ll see it daily (e.g., your home office or garage).
Step 2: Commit to the Vacation
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- Decide where you’re going and book the tickets now.
- If tickets aren’t available yet, set aside the money and give it to a trusted friend with instructions to return it only if you take the vacation.
- Add accountability: If you don’t follow through, your friend donates the money to your least favorite political figure. This ensures you’re motivated to follow through.
Step 3: Block Off Buffer Days
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- Before You Leave: Don’t schedule any patient appointments the day before your trip. Use this time to wrap up loose ends and hand off responsibilities.
- After You Return: Block off your first full day back to catch up on administrative tasks and get organized. Avoid seeing patients on this day.
Vacation Rules: Protect Your Break
While on vacation:
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- Do not answer calls, check emails, or give orders.
- If you accidentally answer a call, redirect it. For example:
“I’m on vacation right now. Please refer to the on-call rotation and contact the appropriate doctor. Thank you!”
This sends a clear message that you’re unavailable, ensuring they won’t call you again.
The Benefits of a True Vacation
Initially, it may take time to adjust to the idea of a real break. Many doctors only begin to truly relax around day seven of a two-week vacation. However, with practice, you’ll learn to unwind more quickly and stay relaxed longer.
Bonus Tip: Plan a Bucket List Vacation
If you have a bucket list, consider choosing one of those dream destinations or experiences for your next vacation. This makes your time off even more special and fulfilling.
Final Thoughts
Taking a real vacation is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity for your health, happiness, and effectiveness as a physician. Follow this formula, share it with your significant other, and book your first real two-week vacation. Let it be a bright spot on your calendar and a reminder that better days are ahead.
Until the next podcast, Happy 2025 and have a great rest of your day.