Conferences, networking, and that back-to-school vibe.
Conferences, networking, and that back-to-school vibe.
I have had the best week. It has taken me from end of the summer malaise to full on back-to-school excitement. Yes, I was one of the kids who looked forward to starting the new school year in September.
I have always been more excited about new starts in September rather than those January “New Year-New Me” makeovers that never last. I love a new pencil case, notebook, autumn clothes, and the season of boots.
I will admit that my September buzz has been slow to kick in this year. I have been feeling a bit lackluster and frustrated with my progress on some of my goals. Last week helped everything slot into place and a small shift in mindset has set me up with renewed confidence and energy for the rest of the year.
So, what did I do last week?
I went to the WIMIN (Women in Medicine International Network) conference held at Murray Edwards College in Cambridge. There were sessions on: Women and Mental Health, Women as mothers, Wellbeing and Sustainability, The Patient’s Voice, Women in Science, and the results of fundraising and work in Ghana and Ukraine. It was a fantastic conference from start to finish and huge thank you to the organisers Dr Kate Stannard and Dr Helen Burdett.
It reminded me that success requires a tenacious approach. It can take years for things to go from the seed of an idea to a fully functioning “thing.” The lecture theatre was filled with inspirational senior women who have no intention of shuffling off into retirement any time soon. They are using their experience and brilliance to make significant changes and get things done.
We heard about 4 quarter lives from Avivah Wittenberg-Cox, and I was pleased to hear that I am in my “becoming” phase (50-75 years of age). I am currently in my second career, but it is good to know that there is even more to look forward to on the horizon. I feel like I am only just getting started in so many ways. You can read her post about the conference here.
Thanks to Dr Richard Claxton, I am slowly reconnecting with my weed ridden garden after listening to the wellbeing and sustainability session. We heard about the healing power of the natural world and the impact of horticultural therapy for patients as well as the staff looking after them. The session ended with an impromptu Gardeners Question Time and I’m glad it’s not just me battling with bindweed in my garden this year.
It was a delight to hear Bonnie Garmus interviewed by Dr Fiona Donald (retiring president of the Royal College of Anaesthetists). She skilfully asked all the questions that we wanted to know about how Bonnie wrote “Lessons in Chemistry.” I particularly liked the fact that the dog, “Six thirty,” was based on her family pet, although after hearing about how clever they were, I think calling them a pet is a huge injustice! It was one of my favourite reads last summer and well worth reading if you need a book recommendation.
As you can tell, I am “fangirling.” There is so much more that I could write, and I can’t wait to book my place for next year!
I went to the conference on my own and enjoyed the opportunity to network with other delegates. I left with new friends and feeling inspired to do new things.
The power of networking
Networking is something that I never used to pay attention to when I worked as a doctor in the NHS. I turned up to work and the work was there to be done. Now that I work for myself, I have learnt that networks are important for so many reasons. My own networks have a diverse range of people from different work sectors. Here are some of the benefits:
Community – working for yourself can be lonely. It is lovely to connect with people either face to face or at virtual meetings.
Collaboration – there are opportunities to collaborate and share ideas. There is enough work to go round, and you may find innovative ideas and opportunities come your way.
Support – even if it is just for a friendly face and a cup of coffee or you may find a connection who can provide exactly the help you need.
A different viewpoint – when you spend all your time with one group of work colleagues your approach to problem solving may always be the same. Speaking to someone from a different sector will open your eyes to a fresh approach.
Confidence and conviction about your business ideas. Some people are natural “pitchers” and public speakers, if you find it hard to do, then trying things out in a smaller friendly network will help to boost your confidence.
I am entering the autumn term with a clearer idea of the work I want to do and who I want to work with. In the spirit of sharing in my networks, here is my 30 second introduction speech:
"Hi, I'm Dr. Lucinda Homer. As a former NHS Consultant Anaesthetist, I've navigated the challenging journey of career transformation. Now, I enjoy a fulfilling portfolio career as an executive coach, appraiser, and aviation medical examiner. Drawing from my personal experience, I specialise in guiding doctors like you to craft your ideal portfolio career. Whether you're looking to enhance your current role, explore new opportunities alongside your main job, or make a complete career shift, I'm here to help you achieve the perfect work-life balance you've always dreamed of. My approach focuses on leveraging your strengths, transforming challenges into opportunities, and aligning your career with your core values and life goals. Let's work together to unlock your potential and create a professional life that truly resonates with you."
What would you say? I would love to know.