Children say surprising things and put you on the spot.

Summary

A pediatrician reflects on their career choice after a child's innocent question prompts introspection amidst professional challenges.

Abstract

During a recent clinic visit, a seven-year-old boy asked the author why they became a doctor. This question, posed during a moment of playful interaction, led to a profound introspection for the pediatrician. The author, grappling with the stress and disillusionment of the medical profession, found solace in the child's innocent inquiry. It served as a reminder of the core reason for choosing pediatrics: to bring joy to children and derive happiness in return. Despite the system's shortcomings and personal struggles with anxiety and imposter syndrome, the pediatrician reaffirms their commitment to the profession, finding renewed purpose in the simple act of making children smile.

Opinions

The pediatrician acknowledges the emotional toll of the job, citing distress over systemic failures and personal battles with stress, anxiety, and imposter syndrome.
The author initially asked the child for questions as a lighthearted gesture, indicating a desire to connect with patients on a more personal level.
The child's straightforward question about the pediatrician's career choice caught the author off guard, prompting an unexpected moment of self-reflection.
The pediatrician's laughter and difficulty in answering suggest a complex relationship with their professional identity.
The mother's intervention with a heartfelt answer highlights the supportive role of parents in the doctor-patient relationship.
The pediatrician ultimately finds the child's question to be a grounding moment, rekindling their passion for pediatrics and reinforcing

Children say surprising things and put you on the spot.

Image from Freepik

I saw a seven-year-old boy in my clinic recently.

Near the end of the consultation, I asked him if he had any questions for me. I was trying to be cute and cheeky I guess.

“Why did you become a doctor?” he asked without a moment’s hesitation.

I laughed and fumbled for an answer.

“To help children like you, sweetie,” his mum answered.

Distraught by the system’s failures, unable to cope with the stress of the job, reeling under anxiety and imposter syndrome, I have been asking myself that question lately.

“Why did I become a doctor?”

Then comes the cheeky lad to remind me of the joys of being a pediatrician.

To put a smile on their faces as they do on mine is a good enough reason to keep going for now.