Vet confessions: What inspires you?
Burnout and compassion fatigue are nothing new and it can be hard to keep going. Here are some other veterinary professionals struggling to find their spark and some words of encouragement.
Editor's note: These confessions were submitted through dvm360.com or written live at Fetch dvm360 by attendees. Need to get something off your chest? You can submit an anonymous confession here.
Some veterinary professionals are searching for inspiration, some have already found it and others who want to help you find yours. Here's what they have to say:
Things are tough
I don't feel the gratification I once did when tackling a challenging case or receiving a positive outcome with a special patient. Where did all the good feelings go? I seem to be mired down by nagging clients that don't trust anything I say.
I love this field and I want to grow and become a vet, but I feel like it's too late for vet school.
Most days I don't have patience. The longer I am in this field the less patience I have. I want to bottle newbie's passion, optimism, and energy.
How I get by
Freedom is being able to be a vet. Happiness is loving every minute-and I do! How lucky am I?
I love my job. It makes me laugh and it makes me cry. I fight compassion fatigue every day because I cannot fathom doing anything else. Sometimes I wish that I could just run away after a really bad day, but the next day, I get up and do it all again.
I come to veterinary meetings to be inspired when I've had it. I've been really close to being done doing tech work many times in the last 20 years.
Was getting tired of the same old/same old, until I started volunteering at dog sled races-will be my 4th year this year-can't wait for it to snow!
Never think that you are not good enough. Strong enough. Smart enough. This profession takes a very special person, and here you are doing it. You are amazing. Thanks for all that you do! –one vet med worker to another
It's ok to not be ok! HAVE HOPE!
I <3 <3 <3 being a vet!!! Embrace what you do, own it, improve it, love it!
You ARE!! You are enough! Think about it-you have an awesome job. Amazing kids. Staff who look up to you. Loving patients. Grateful clients. You Rock!!
On my worst day-a bad day being a vet is better than a good day doing anything else!
