Lessons I Learned the Hard Way and What I Would Tell My Younger Self

If I could go back to that first chaotic week of my medical career, I would sit down with my fresh, enthusiastic self and offer a few words of hard-earned advice. It is not that anyone prepares you poorly, it is just that some lessons can only be learned in the thick of things. But maybe, just maybe, reading this now will save you a few of the stumbles I had.

1. You will make mistakes. Everyone does. The sooner you accept that, the better. What matters is not avoiding every single error, but recognising them, owning them and learning from them. If you are open and honest, you will earn the trust of your team and your patients.

2. The nurses will teach you more than any textbook. Respect them. Ask their opinion. Let them teach you. They have seen hundreds of new doctors come through and they know how things really work on the ground. Be humble, be kind and say thank you often.

3. Documentation is your safety net. When things go wrong, and they sometimes will, your notes will speak for you. Write clearly. Include your reasoning. Document conversations. It might feel like a chore, but it protects your patients and your practice.

4. You are more capable than you think. Imposter syndrome is common. Every time you think "I cannot do this," remember that you have already survived medical school, you are showing up, and you are trying your best. That is more than enough to start with. Confidence grows through action. Keep going.

5. This job will challenge you and shape you. You will be tired, emotionally stretched, and at times disillusioned. But you will also be moved, inspired and grateful in ways you never expected. A kind word from a patient. A diagnosis you got right. A colleague who has your back. These are the moments that make it worthwhile.

6. Do not forget who you are outside of medicine. You are more than your role. Nurture your interests, your friendships, your life beyond the hospital. It is easy to get swallowed up by the system, but your humanity is what makes you a better doctor.

The path you are on is not easy, but it is meaningful. You are allowed to struggle. You are allowed to ask for help. And you are allowed to be proud of how far you have come.

One day, a junior colleague will come to you looking just as lost as you felt. You will smile, remember these days, and offer them the same reassurance you needed. That is how the cycle continues, and how the profession stays human.

You have got this.