Five years into cardiac surgery residency, here are five lessons I wish I could tell my younger self

In cardiac surgery residency, you witness and experience many of life’s extremes. Both good and bad. Here are 5 lessons I wish I could tell my younger self.

1. No one is invincible or impervious to change

We start out believing we may be the exception.

“He burned out, but I’m different”

“She changed, but I won’t”

Do not give into exceptionalism, and instead be more mindful of your environment. Not all things bounce back.

2. The most obvious problems are the ones worth working on

You may be tempted to distinguish yourself by coming up with “rare,” “prestigious” or “novel” ideas. But sometimes what the world needs more of are people who are willing to humbly work on the obvious, day-to-day problems. If we already have a solution that works, why re-invent the wheel?

3. As you become more successful, try harder at the basic things

Some of the most successful (and busiest) people around me still reply to emails kindly and reliably, remember people’s names, and offer help to others. This is not a coincidence.

4. No one else will say no for you

You might think that someone out there will tell you when you’re doing enough. But that’s not always in their interest. Only you can tell yourself when you’re doing enough and good enough.

5. Integrity matters

Some people around you will cut corners or take dishonest shortcuts to success. It never stops hurting to see jerks get ahead. But people notice sooner or later. Integrity matters. Character matters. And they always will.

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Jason J. Han (@JasonHanMD) is a cardiac surgery resident in Philadelphia and is part of the TMS leadership.

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The opinions expressed in the article is not affiliated with any institution, company or product. The article should not be interpreted as medical advice.