» Set Clear Boundaries
• Make sure your 80 % remains steady and doesn’ t suffer because of your 20 %. Balance is key; your routine work needs to stay consistent so you can fulfill your professional obligations without added stress.
» Schedule Your 20 %
» Start Small
• Block off specific times for your 20 % challenge in your calendar. Treat it as seriously as you would any other responsibility. It’ s not optional.
• You don’ t need to overhaul your entire schedule or take on a massive project right away. Start with small steps: devote one afternoon a week to your passion project or set aside an hour each day for brainstorming ideas.
» Reassess Periodically
• Check in with yourself every few months: Is this 20 % challenge still fulfilling? Do I need to adjust my focus? Keeping it fresh is essential to maintaining enthusiasm.
Avoiding Burnout: Why This Strategy Works
Burnout often stems from feeling trapped in a cycle of monotony or overwhelm with no room for creativity or personal growth. Carve out space for your passion project and gain some control over how you spend your time and energy. The balance between routine and challenge helps prevent boredom while avoiding the chaos of taking on too much. Taking on the 20 % challenge serves as an emotional anchor— a reminder that medicine is more than just paperwork, protocols and long hours. Maybe it can even get you on the path of enjoying the journey instead of feeling like you’ re just grinding through it.
Final Thoughts
Finding your 20 % is like managing the health and stamina meters in a video game. If you focus solely on one meter – your clinical duties, for example – you may keep patients healthy, but drain your own energy and enjoyment. Your“ 20 %” is the equivalent of finding those special power ups or side quests that refill your stamina bar and remind you why you started playing in the first place. It’ s the balance between completing the main mission and taking time to recharge so you can keep going strong.
Dr. Higgins is a rhinologist in private practice at Kentuckiana ENT, a division of ENTCC, and President and Chairman of the Board of ENT Care Centers( ENTCC).
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