Reclaiming Humanity in Medicine: Creativity as a Catalyst for Physician Fulfillment
The intersection of medicine and creativity presents a transformative path to physician fulfillment and innovative solutions in healthcare. In our latest episode of The Worthy Physician, I sat down with Dr. Manju Dawkins, a dermatologist-turned-entrepreneur, to explore how stepping beyond the exam room can lead to healing, not just for patients, but for doctors themselves.
Medical training often teaches us that sacrificing our own needs is a badge of honor—skipped meals, ignored bathroom breaks, and sleepless nights are normalized in the name of dedication. “We’re young and impressionable during those formative years, and we convince ourselves that this is noble and commendable… but in hindsight, it’s just not sensible,” Dr. Dawkins reflects. This culture of self-neglect becomes a dangerous norm, laying the foundation for burnout and disconnection.
Their conversation highlights the power of mindfulness and presence in reclaiming agency over one’s professional life. As Dr. Dawkins puts it, “The world may always feel like it’s on fire... but I have the power to choose how I want to live and work.” It’s a potent reminder that physicians don’t have to remain trapped in a system of urgency—they can redefine the terms of their contribution.
Dr. Dawkins’ own path is a testament to that possibility. Inspired by watching her infant daughter endure painful vaccinations, she recognized a healthcare problem her training could help solve. This insight led her to found Thimble Health, a company innovating solutions for needle pain. Her journey reveals the immense potential that arises when physicians apply their expertise to creative problem-solving beyond the clinical walls.
Importantly, the episode dismantles the myth that physicians must confine themselves to traditional care roles. “The system encourages us to keep our heads down and see more patients, often at our own expense,” she says. “We shouldn’t allow our degrees to constrain us. Instead, they should broaden our horizons.” That message—bold and freeing—invites physicians to explore new identities in policy, entrepreneurship, art, media, and more.
The conversation closes on an uplifting note: authenticity. Our sense of purpose doesn’t have to be tied exclusively to patient care. Even the simple joy of creating—a sandcastle, a story, a solution—can be deeply meaningful. “Be yourself,” Dr. Dawkins urges. “When you embrace your true self, an incredible beauty unfolds.”
For any physician feeling stuck, burnt out, or uncertain of their next step, this episode is a beacon. Reinventing your career doesn’t mean turning your back on medicine. It means evolving it—infusing it with your full humanity, creativity, and vision.
What Can You Do?
1. Redefine Success and Reclaim Agency
Take 10 minutes to reflect and write down what your ideal medical career would look like, outside of traditional expectations. Identify one thing this week you can do differently to align with that vision (e.g., say no to an extra shift, block time for a walk, or delegate a non-urgent task).
2. Pursue a Creative Outlet or Side Project
Whether it’s writing, designing, policy, product development, or starting a podcast—pick one creative idea you’ve had and give it one hour of focused attention this week. Creativity isn’t separate from medicine—it’s a tool for healing and innovation.
3. Practice Mindful Micro-Moments During the Day
Start with one: before opening your EMR or entering a patient room, take a single deep breath and check in with your body. This trains presence and helps break the cycle of chronic urgency that leads to burnout.
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4. Honor Your Body.
Listen to what your body is telling you. If you have lost connectivity, find a way to reconnect with yourself.
-Sit in silence.
-Take an extra five minutes to do a mundane task. Slow down on purpose.
-Take a nap.
-Have a day or hour, or 20 minutes of non-production.