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351: [LIFE] How to Stay Grounded on the Hardest Days in Medicine: Touchstones and Rhythms
Even on the best days in medicine, it can feel like there just aren’t enough hours to get everything done. Between charting, follow-ups, messages, and the endless stream of “urgent” things… it’s easy to lose your rhythm.
In this episode, Tracy shares her favorite touchstones—small, intentional habits and micro-moments that help clinicians stay grounded, focused, and calm even in the middle of chaos.
You’ll hear about the origin of the term “touchstone” (yes, it comes from testing the purity of gold!) and learn how to apply that metaphor to your day as a way to test your focus, presence, and peace.
From morning momentum to mid-day resets and evening recovery, Tracy walks through simple, actionable ways to bring rhythm back to your clinical days—so you can feel less scattered and more steady, even when the day goes sideways.
✨ You’ll learn:
The science and symbolism behind touchstones
Simple ways to build morning momentum that lasts
How to use handwashing, breathing, and movement as energy resets
Systems for charting, batching, and time-blocking that reduce overwhelm
Why boundaries are essential for focus and sustainability
How to create transition rituals to leave work at work
🎯 Try this: Choose one new touchstone this week—something to help you re-center during your day—and notice how it changes your energy and focus.
💡 Take the Clinician Career Sustainability Quiz: Feeling pulled in every direction? Take my free quiz to see where you land on the spectrum between burnout and sustainability. 👉 tracybingaman.com/sustainability
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CONNECT
FREE 30-MINUTE COACHING CONSULT https://calendly.com/the-pa-is-in/gen-call
1-ON-1 NEGOTIATION CONSULT https://calendly.com/the-pa-is-in/negotiate
CONNECT WITH TRACY 🤝
LINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracybingaman/
INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/mrstracybingaman/
WEBSITE https://www.tracybingaman.com
🎁 Bonus Freebie: Grab your free guide with 48 healthcare-specific side hustle ideas at 👉 tracybingaman.com/gig
Keywords: PA burnout recovery, clinician touchstones, stay grounded at work, PA mindfulness habits, productivity tips for healthcare providers, sustainable medicine, clinician stress management, morning routine for PAs, charting efficiency tips, how to leave work on time as a PA, daily rhythm for healthcare workers, Tracy Bingaman podcast
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