The other day, when I was at the gym, I noticed how my trainer seemed different with a client. It suddenly struck me how his demeanour shifts noticeably depending on who he was with—he was professional, focused during training sessions, and relaxed and chatty with his gym buddies or clients outside the sessions.
As I reflected on this observation, I wondered if my trainer had ever experienced burnout. Considering how frequently he’s at the gym and the likely need to shift his mindset often, I figured it was worth asking. Sure enough, his response wasn’t surprising: a resolute “never!” Towards the end of our session, I couldn’t help but share my observation with him. He paused for a moment, then chuckled in disbelief. “Are you sure?” he asked, genuinely surprised. “I don’t think I am different. I am the same me always.”
I smiled and assured him that I meant it as a compliment. After all, I can relate! Whether I’m burning the midnight oil or enjoying a vacation, I’ve learned to mentally switch gears during work and non-work hours. I like having pockets of relaxation even amidst a hectic work schedule, and that makes it easier to work if the situation is reversed. It is important to wear a “work face” when working, regardless of the time or location, and allow oneself to relax when not working, even during traditional work hours. I believe this inner balance makes it easier for me to have an outer balance.
What fascinates me is the power of intent and mindset in achieving this delicate balance. Adaptability is key in today’s world, where the lines between work and personal life are increasingly blurred. It’s not always possible to separate the two, especially with hybrid or work-from-home options becoming more common.
This line of thought led me to wonder if dentists employ similar techniques. To satisfy my curiosity, I reached out to Dr. Sanjukta Mohanta and Dr. Gary Glassman, both of whom I admire for their multifaceted roles and their seemingly boundless energy. Despite lacking the luxury of a hybrid work model, they exude a remarkable sense of balance and make everything look easy from the outside.
Their insights were surprisingly aligned and refreshingly simple: mindset, scheduling, and delegation. They emphasized the importance of seeking support from peers and family without hesitation. Additionally, both advocated for prioritizing self-care and activities that bring genuine happiness. Whether it’s eating healthily, spending quality time with loved ones, or pursuing hobbies, they ensure there’s a balance.
Dr. Glassman practices “unplugging and disconnecting” from digital distractions to spend time with his grandchildren. His methodical approach to time management, emphasizing “effort allocation” and prioritizing tasks based on importance and urgency, allows for a more balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
Similarly, Dr. Mohanta practices “disconnecting from the world and reconnecting with nature” to enjoy hikes with her dog, Dude. She prioritizes her well-being at all costs, as “she cannot take care of others if she is not okay.” She believes in integrating a “personal calendar” with the work schedule to get a birds-eye view of her time allocation.
In the end, it’s fascinating to see how something as simple as mindset can influence our ability to navigate the complexities of work and personal life. Whether you’re a gym trainer, a dentist, or any other professional, finding that balance is essential for overall well-being. G
— Tanya Arora, Managing Editor, Oral Health Group