Find the full transcript for this episode and more resources for Women Physician Leaders here.

I believe that most people are good.

That idea isn’t just a country song lyric — it’s a motto that’s shaped how I move through life.

My guiding principle? Assume positive intent.

This practice of positivity can influence your brain in powerful ways. It can also influence those around you — in ways you may never even see.

This simple mindset has changed how I lead, how I parent, how I partner, and how I show up at work.

Think about some daily friction points:

·       An insistent nurse calls you repeatedly about what seems like a small issue.

·       Your partner snaps at you while making weekend plans.

·       A patient overreacts to a tweak in their care plan.

·       A resident resists doing a needed procedure.

In each case, the easy move is to assume frustration, ill will, or incompetence. But what if you paused — and instead asked: “What’s going on underneath this?”

Because everyone has a backstory you may never see.

Let’s dig into the depth behind curiosity, the neuroscience of positivity, and how to apply this mindset — especially as women physician leaders working in complex, high-pressure environments. 

Dr. Stephanie Yamout helps women physician leaders get their time back, own their value, and command the room as they were born to do. For coaching support, apply for Stephanie's Signature Program here and she'll be in touch to invite you to a call.