Staying Inspired: Simple Rituals Every Physician Needs

What if inspiration didn’t have to arrive in rare, dramatic bursts? Inspired by Mason Currey’s “Daily Rituals: How Artists Work,” I’ve learned that simple routines can nurture creativity in ways we don’t always expect. By creating rituals, we can stay energized, connect more deeply with patients, and prevent burnout.

 

For me, a daily writing routine became a powerful tool for self-expression and healing during a difficult time. This wasn’t about waiting for the perfect moment to write; it was about showing up consistently and letting creativity flow. I believe rituals help us turn everyday practices into grounding moments that open us up to creative energy. What small, intentional habits could make a difference in your own life? I think they just might, especially in medicine, where creativity is often hidden in the art of patient care and problem-solving.

 

In this episode, I’m sharing practical ways to stay inspired, like finding dedicated workspaces or discovering your best times of day for focused tasks. Whether you’re a physician or simply looking for ways to invite more creativity into your life, I hope my journey reminds you that inspiration can be woven into the fabric of our daily routines through purposeful rituals.

 

Quotes

• “I believe that a career in medicine is one of the most creative careers. You see, you’re energetically engaged with a patient. You’re using all five senses, which means you’re putting yourself in flow.”  (01:00 | Dr. Lara Salyer)
• “Routine matters... Structure actually helps creativity. But really, it’s about consistency, and our brain is a predictive machine.” (07:28 | Dr. Lara Salyer)
• “Constraints actually will fuel creativity... the more constraints you apply, your brain works a little harder to be creative.” (20:44 | Dr. Lara Salyer)
• “Persistence over perfection… We need to have a ‘BM’ once a day—one bare minimum daily. Done is better than perfect.” (22:12 | Dr. Lara Salyer)
• “Medicine should be fun. It should be a self-expressive act. It should be a creative act where you’re helping your patient heal.” (23:11 | Dr. Lara Salyer)

 

Links

Free Catalyst Calendar planner: https://healthinnate.activehosted.com/f/49

Take the Archetype quiz to find your ideal play activity: https://3nb09zv7070.typeform.com/archetype

Daily Rituals: How Artists Work by Mason Currey: https://www.amazon.com/Daily-Rituals-How-Artists-Work/dp/0307273601

Right Brain Rescue Book: Amazon store front: https://www.amazon.com//dp/B08JCKBWK5/

 

Connect with Lara: 

Website: https://drlarasalyer.com

The Catalyst Way: https://drlarasalyer.com/catalyst

Instagram: @drlarasalyer

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drlarasalyer

Linked-In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlarasalyer/

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/c/DrLaraSalyer

TikTok: @Creativity.Doctor

 

Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm