The family doctor used to be almost the only source of medical information patients had access to. Now, few people need to let them know about the latest health news, since they can learn it online.
Today, the doctor’s role is to help the patient understand all of this. In order to do this, the physician must project his knowledge, but not put himself on any kind of pedestal against the patient.
In our culture, evidenced by the stories we read, the movies we watch and many of the ways we interact with the world, people see themselves as heroes of their own lives, the main actors in their own narratives.
Most Westerners aspire to reach higher levels of skill, status, health, or wealth.
We generally do not try to be like heroes who are impeccable and obviously much better than us, but we mainly deal with products, companies and professionals that help us move forward with our personal goals.
Today’s business literature urges entrepreneurs and business leaders to take a supportive role in their environment, rather than focusing on their achievements or experiences.
“Being the Leader, Not the Hero” is a quote from Donald Miller of StoryBrand.
The narratives that dominate today present an insecure hero who faces challenges while at the same time reaching a higher level of knowledge and being supported by a guide who is older or wiser (Obi-Wan Kenobi or Yoda) but in no way competes with him, young hero.
These characters ultimately proved nothing.
They show that they are perfectly capable, yet almost distant from themselves and others.
This is a useful way for doctors to think for themselves.
They need to support their patients in their quest for health and happiness.
They must guide them to learn to choose for themselves.
They cannot force them to do things they do not see and do not feel alone doing.
And of course doctors have no right to expect that patients will always follow their advice.
Your service quality measurements can make you feel that you are the main characters or heroes in your interactions with your patients.
The results of your efforts can make you feel success or failure.
This, in turn, can create work stress and exhaustion.
Unlike adopting and maintaining the role of a mentor, physicians can maintain their endurance and excitement at every encounter with the patient.
By offering guidance, each patient is free to choose whether or not to accept the words of your knowledge.
