In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise explores the critical theme of maintaining personal power during chaotic times, a subject that resonates deeply with her own life experiences and those of her fellow veterinary professionals.

Dr. Wise emphasizes that chaos is an inherent aspect of life, and individuals often mistakenly believe that their ability to thrive is dependent on the absence of chaos. She encourages her listeners to recognize their intrinsic worth and sense of safety, regardless of external circumstances. Accepting chaos as a universal experience can alleviate the pressure to resolve it before moving forward in life.

Dr. Wise argues that fighting against circumstances only serves to diminish personal power and overall wellbeing. Acceptance enables individuals to make informed decisions that can lead to positive outcomes, even in challenging situations.

Dr. Wise emphasizes that while uncomfortable emotional states are valid, individuals can choose how long they remain in those emotional states. By recognizing the narratives that contribute to feelings of defeat or hopelessness, individuals can reclaim their power and move forward. She encourages listeners to cultivate curiosity about their beliefs and to challenge the limiting narratives that hinder their potential.

Key Takeways:

1. Chaos is presented as a natural part of life that does not hinder one's ability to thrive or find happiness.
2. It is possible to maintain personal power during chaotic times and recognize one's strength amidst turmoil.
3. The narratives we create about our circumstances shape our emotional responses and future possibilities.

Resources:

⭐Get The Alternative Career Guide for Veterinary Professionals: Create A Career Tailored to You!

https://joyfuldvm.com/jobguide

⭐Join VetMed;JOY CLUB: Elevate Your Life & Veterinary Career Experience

https://joyfuldvm.com/joyclub

⭐Listen to The Joyful DVM Podcast: Be Inspired by Empowering Perspectives on Navigating Life as A Veterinary Professional

https://joyfuldvm.com/podcast

⭐Join VET LIFE ACADEMY: Transform Your Veterinary Life & Career from the inside out

https://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademy

⭐Learn How to Support Your Organization and Enhance Employee Wellbeing

https://joyfuldvm.com/organizations

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In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise wraps up a three-part series focused on the Keys of Happiness in Veterinary Medicine.

The third key to happiness, discussed in episode 212, revolves around self-empowerment. Dr. Wise underscores that individuals have the capacity to transform their lives and experiences without waiting for external validation or changes. Empowerment involves making choices that prioritize personal needs and desires, which may include changing jobs, seeking new relationships, establishing personal Boundaries, and having High Value Conversations.

Dr. Wise encourages listeners to confront the fear of rejection that often accompanies High Value Conversations. Many individuals shy away from these discussions, fearing negative responses or judgment. However, she emphasizes that the worst possible outcome is simply receiving a "no," which clarifies what is achievable. Engaging in these conversations is vital for personal empowerment and can lead to unexpected positive results.

Dr. Wise also encourages listeners to reframe their narratives regarding past choices and experiences. The past should be perceived as a series of lessons contributing to personal growth rather than a source of shame or regret. By recognizing that past struggles have fostered resilience, individuals can move forward with a sense of empowerment and purpose.

Key Takeways:

1. Empowerment includes prioritizing personal needs, setting boundaries, and engaging in challenging yet valuable conversations.
2. High Value Conversations foster clarity and opportunities, while avoidance can hinder growth.
3. Self-acceptance, self-confidence, and self-love are essential for happiness and must come from within, not external validation.
4. The past should be seen as a valuable part of one’s journey, with struggles providing lessons for growth.
5. Keys to happiness in veterinary medicine: owning emotions, rejecting victim identity, and embracing self empowerment.

Resources:

⭐Get The Alternative Career Guide for Veterinary Professionals: Create A Career Tailored to You!

https://joyfuldvm.com/jobguide

⭐Join VetMed;JOY CLUB: Elevate Your Life & Veterinary Career Experience

https://joyfuldvm.com/joyclub

⭐Listen to The Joyful DVM Podcast: Be Inspired by Empowering Perspectives on Navigating Life as A Veterinary Professional

https://joyfuldvm.com/podcast

⭐Join VET LIFE ACADEMY: Transform Your Veterinary Life & Career from the inside out

https://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademy

⭐Learn How to Support Your Organization and Enhance Employee Wellbeing

https://joyfuldvm.com/organizations

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Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/18257625/

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In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise emphasizes the importance of shedding the victim identity, a mindset that many professionals may not consciously recognize they embody.

Veterinary medicine is inherently chaotic and unpredictable, which can lead to significant frustration when attempts to exert control over daily events fail. Professionals often find themselves overwhelmed by factors beyond their control, including client behavior, patient responses, and equipment malfunctions. This struggle for control can cultivate a victim mentality, where individuals believe their happiness is dependent on external circumstances. Dr. Wise stresses that while individuals have the power to create their own wellbeing, they cannot dictate the actions of others or the situations they encounter.

The tendency to vent frustrations among colleagues is a coping mechanism that can perpetuate a victim mentality. While sharing negative experiences may offer temporary relief, it ultimately reinforces a cycle of blame and frustration. This collective commiseration distracts from personal empowerment and the potential for positive change within the profession. Dr. Wise argues that as long as veterinary professionals attribute their happiness to external circumstances, they will remain disempowered.

Key Takeaways:

1. Many professionals adopt a victim mentality due to the chaotic work environment.
2. Frustration stems from the disparity between expectations and reality, leading to feelings of victimization.
3. External factors, such as client behavior and unexpected patient outcomes, contribute to frustration and powerlessness.
4. Believing happiness depends on external circumstances reinforces the victim mindset.
5. Venting among colleagues offers temporary relief but perpetuates negativity and disempowerment.
6. New veterinarians should avoid comparing themselves to experienced colleagues and allow time for personal growth.
7. Listeners are urged to identify external blame for unhappiness and recognize their choice in adopting a victim identity.

Resources:

⭐Get The Alternative Career Guide for Veterinary Professionals: Create A Career Tailored to You!

https://joyfuldvm.com/jobguide

⭐Join VetMed;JOY CLUB: Elevate Your Life & Veterinary Career Experience

https://joyfuldvm.com/joyclub

⭐Listen to The Joyful DVM Podcast: Be Inspired by Empowering Perspectives on Navigating Life as A Veterinary Professional

https://joyfuldvm.com/podcast

⭐Join VET LIFE ACADEMY: Transform Your Veterinary Life & Career from the inside out

https://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademy

⭐Learn How to Support Your Organization and Enhance Employee Wellbeing

https://joyfuldvm.com/organizations

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Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/18257625/

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In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise reflects on her previous belief that emotions signify weakness, particularly in a profession that prioritizes logic and scientific reasoning. She recognizes that many veterinary professionals share this perspective, often placing greater importance on data and statistics than on emotional awareness. However, she stresses that emotions are a fundamental aspect of the human experience and are essential for overall happiness and wellbeing.

The podcast addresses the prevalent emotional challenges faced by veterinary professionals, especially those dealing with burnout, stress, and anxiety.

Dr. Wise emphasizes that emotions are not generated by external situations but are instead shaped by one's thoughts about those situations. She encourages listeners to consider that their emotional responses are influenced by their beliefs and perspectives.

The podcast underscores that while negative emotions are a natural part of life, individuals must learn to manage their emotional states intentionally. Dr. Wise encourages listeners to examine their beliefs about their circumstances and actively choose perspectives that foster emotional wellbeing. By doing so, they can cultivate a more positive emotional state, which subsequently influences their behaviors and interactions with others.

Key takeaways include:

1. Veterinary professionals often prioritize logic over emotions, but both are vital for overall wellbeing.
2. Emotions arise from personal thoughts and beliefs, not external circumstances.
3. Job changes may offer temporary relief, but unresolved thought patterns can lead to recurring negative emotions.
4. Managing emotions is essential for a positive mindset and better relationships.

Resources:

⭐Get The Alternative Career Guide for Veterinary Professionals: Create A Career Tailored to You!

https://joyfuldvm.com/jobguide

⭐Join VetMed;JOY CLUB: Elevate Your Life & Veterinary Career Experience

https://joyfuldvm.com/joyclub

⭐Listen to The Joyful DVM Podcast: Be Inspired by Empowering Perspectives on Navigating Life as A Veterinary Professional

https://joyfuldvm.com/podcast

⭐Join VET LIFE ACADEMY: Transform Your Veterinary Life & Career from the inside out

https://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademy

⭐Learn How to Support Your Organization and Enhance Employee Wellbeing

https://joyfuldvm.com/organizations

Follow me:

Website: https://joyfuldvm.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/18257625/

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In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the significant issue of external validation within the veterinary field and provides strategies for overcoming this challenge.

External validation is defined as the need for outside affirmation to confirm one's worth or correctness in actions. The academic environment perpetuates the belief that grades are synonymous with self-worth. Many students enter veterinary programs already grappling with insecurities, and the pressure to excel can create a cycle of anxiety, where temporary relief is experienced upon receiving good grades.

Dr. Wise stresses that veterinary professionals do not have control over patient outcomes or client behaviors. The emotional states of clients influence their actions, and veterinary professionals cannot dictate how clients feel or respond.

The dependence on patient outcomes and client interactions as indicators of success can lead to burnout and dissatisfaction within the profession. Dr. Wise encourages veterinary professionals to understand that their self-worth is not dependent on external factors.

Dr. Wise advocates for a transformative shift in mindset, urging veterinary professionals to concentrate on their responsibilities and efforts rather than seeking external validation. She underscores the importance of recognizing that mistakes and adverse outcomes are inherent to the practice of veterinary medicine. Embracing this fundamental truth can reduce pressure and cultivate a healthier relationship with their work.

Dr. Wise concludes by reminding her audience that perfection is an unattainable goal in veterinary medicine (and life); and that accepting the human experience, including errors, is crucial for both personal and professional development.

Key takeaways include:

1. The education system promotes reliance on external validation, causing anxiety and self-doubt in students.
2. Veterinary professionals measure success through patient outcomes and client satisfaction.
3. Many veterinarians internalize negative outcomes, feeling responsible for patients who do not improve or challenging client interactions.
4. Dr. Wise emphasizes focusing on true responsibilities like exams, histories, recommendations, and treatment plans.
5. Dr. Wise promotes a shift from perfectionism to accepting human imperfection in veterinary practice.

Resources:

⭐Get The Alternative Career Guide for Veterinary Professionals: Create A Career Tailored to You!

https://joyfuldvm.com/jobguide

⭐Join VetMed;JOY CLUB: Elevate Your Life & Veterinary Career Experience

https://joyfuldvm.com/joyclub

⭐Listen to The Joyful DVM Podcast: Be Inspired by Empowering Perspectives on Navigating Life as A Veterinary Professional

https://joyfuldvm.com/podcast

⭐Join VET LIFE ACADEMY: Transform Your Veterinary Life & Career from the inside out

https://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademy

⭐Learn How to Support Your Organization and Enhance Employee Wellbeing

https://joyfuldvm.com/organizations

Follow me:

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Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/18257625/

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In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise emphasizes the critical role that veterinary technicians play in the veterinary field. She encourages listeners to express appreciation for the contributions of veterinary technicians, underscoring that their involvement is essential for creating a sustainable career environment in veterinary medicine.

Dr. Wise urges veterinary technicians to recognize that while they share common challenges, their individual responses to these circumstances are crucial. Many technicians fall into a cycle of negativity, which can detract from patient care and client service. Veterinary technicians possess the power to influence their work environment positively. She encourages them to take ownership of their attitudes and interactions, regardless of their feelings of being underappreciated.

The podcast highlights the importance of maintaining a positive attitude, even amidst the chaotic circumstances that are inherent in veterinary medicine. She asserts that technicians can choose their responses and moods, which can significantly influence their colleagues and the overall workplace atmosphere. A positive demeanor can create a ripple effect, encouraging others to adopt a similar outlook, thereby fostering a more supportive and collaborative environment.

Key takeaways include:

1. Technicians often feel undervalued and face challenges like client dissatisfaction and workplace negativity.
2. A positive mindset in response to workplace circumstances will benefit all veterinary professionals
3. Technicians should engage in constructive discussions about their needs, such as pay and scheduling.
4. A positive attitude among technicians can enhance the entire veterinary team's culture.

Resources:

⭐Get The Alternative Career Guide for Veterinary Professionals: Create A Career Tailored to You!

https://joyfuldvm.com/jobguide

⭐Join VetMed;JOY CLUB: Elevate Your Life & Veterinary Career Experience

https://joyfuldvm.com/joyclub

⭐Listen to The Joyful DVM Podcast: Be Inspired by Empowering Perspectives on Navigating Life as A Veterinary Professional

https://joyfuldvm.com/podcast

⭐Join VET LIFE ACADEMY: Transform Your Veterinary Life & Career from the inside out

https://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademy

⭐Learn How to Support Your Organization and Enhance Employee Wellbeing

https://joyfuldvm.com/organizations

Follow me:

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In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the essential role of support staff in veterinary medicine and emphasizes the significance of veterinary technicians, assistants, practice managers, and kennel helpers, asserting that the sustainability and success of veterinary practices heavily rely on these team members.

She advocates for a team approach in veterinary practices, where credentialed veterinary technicians can assume more responsibilities. This delegation not only alleviates the workload for veterinarians but also enriches the work experience for support staff, reducing burnout and increasing job satisfaction across the board.

Key takeaways include:

1. Emphasizes the importance of support staff, including technicians and managers, for sustainable veterinary practices.
2. Highlights the underutilization of credentialed technicians and the need for better delegation of tasks.
3. Advocates for updating veterinary practice acts to align with the skills of credentialed staff.
4. Suggests effective team utilization can improve workflow and client experiences in veterinary practices.
5. Calls for a shift from a veterinarian-centered approach to a collaborative team environment.

Resources:

⭐Get The Alternative Career Guide for Veterinary Professionals: Create A Career Tailored to You!

https://joyfuldvm.com/jobguide

⭐Join VetMed;JOY CLUB: Elevate Your Life & Veterinary Career Experience

https://joyfuldvm.com/joyclub

⭐Listen to The Joyful DVM Podcast: Be Inspired by Empowering Perspectives on Navigating Life as A Veterinary Professional

https://joyfuldvm.com/podcast

⭐Join VET LIFE ACADEMY: Transform Your Veterinary Life & Career from the inside out

https://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademy

⭐Learn How to Support Your Organization and Enhance Employee Wellbeing

https://joyfuldvm.com/organizations

Follow me:

Website: https://joyfuldvm.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/18257625/

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In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the concept of reincarnation in relation to pets, a subject that may be difficult for those who adhere strictly to scientific reasoning. While she values the scientific method, she recognizes that some of life's most beautiful experiences lie beyond the realm of rational understanding. This insight has led her to embrace experiences that are not easily categorized or explained.

She underscores the inherent uncertainty in the practice of medicine. While veterinarians can provide diagnoses and treatments, they cannot guarantee outcomes. This uncertainty also applies to the concepts of reincarnation and the continuity of energy after death. She encourages her audience to consider the possibility of reincarnation, particularly in light of their own experiences with pets.

She challenges the traditional view of life as a linear progression from birth to death. She posits that energy is neither created nor destroyed but merely changes forms. This perspective opens the possibility of reincarnation for both humans and animals. She encourages her listeners to remain open to the idea that they may encounter animals that evoke memories of those they have lost, suggesting that these experiences could be more than mere coincidence.

Key takeaways include:

1. The episode discusses reincarnation in pets, appealing to those open to non-scientific views.
2. Dr. Wise encourages open-mindedness towards experiences that challenge scientific reasoning, suggesting energy transformation.
3. The podcast advocates for balancing scientific knowledge with intuitive understanding in veterinary practice and life.
4. Dr. Wise urges listeners to trust their instincts and beliefs despite potential external judgment.
5. The episode concludes by encouraging recognition of life's rich experiences beyond conventional understanding and sharing personal stories.

Resources:

⭐Get The Alternative Career Guide for Veterinary Professionals: Create A Career Tailored to You!

https://joyfuldvm.com/jobguide

⭐Join VetMed;JOY CLUB: Elevate Your Life & Veterinary Career Experience

https://joyfuldvm.com/joyclub

⭐Listen to The Joyful DVM Podcast: Be Inspired by Empowering Perspectives on Navigating Life as A Veterinary Professional

https://joyfuldvm.com/podcast

⭐Join VET LIFE ACADEMY: Transform Your Veterinary Life & Career from the inside out

https://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademy

⭐Learn How to Support Your Organization and Enhance Employee Wellbeing

https://joyfuldvm.com/organizations

Follow me:

Website: https://joyfuldvm.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/18257625/

Instagram: ...