In this episode of Creative Careers in Medicine, host Dr Dana Phang is joined by Dr Adaira Landry and Dr Resa E Lewiss, co-authors of the insightful book “Microskills.” Dr Landry's passion for medicine was ignited at a young age by her interest in science and maths and her desire to help sick individuals. Dr Lewiss, who always aspired to be a doctor, confirmed her career choice through her experiences in emergency departments, feeling at home among fellow physicians.

Dr Landry has been an emergency physician for nine years, during which she has experienced both the rewarding and challenging aspects of clinical work, including the impact of burnout. Similarly, Dr Lewiss found her medical school and training years overwhelming, often feeling without a clear "playbook" for her career, which also led her to address the issue of burnout. Their shared experiences and challenges inspired them to write “Microskills,” drawing from their professional journeys to offer practical advice and support to others in the medical field.

Exploring how Dr Landry and Dr Lewiss managed their co-writing process alongside their demanding careers. Sharing insights on the importance of having a writing partner to divide the work and maintain motivation, utilising shared documents and navigating different schedules effectively. They emphasised the unique nature of their book, which is designed to be comprehensive, accessible, and inclusive, with a strong focus on self-care, compassion, and valuing employees as individuals in the workplace.

“Microskills'' encourages a holistic approach to professional life, highlighting the importance of self-care, caring for others, and then focusing on work tasks. The discussion also covers how networking is featured within the book as a vital micro skill, stressing the significance of maintaining and nourishing professional relationships. Dr Landry and Dr Lewiss initially connected through a colleague's referral, leading to a fruitful collaboration in writing about the workplace and mentorship, which culminated in the publication of their book after three years of dedicated effort.

Delving into their journey of publishing, from researching and writing a book proposal to finding an agent and securing a publishing deal through an auction. Both Dr Landry and Dr Lewiss utilised various communities of practice and social media platforms to gain insights and support from experienced writers. Balancing their roles as mothers, clinicians, and academics, they managed their time effectively to complete the book.

Their book, “Microskills”, is now available in several English-speaking countries and being translated into other languages, recommended for professionals at any stage of their career and can serve as a valuable gift.

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