ABSTRACT

Leadership is an inherent part of being a good doctor. Mostly, doctors demonstrate leadership by providing the very best care to their patients and their families. Sometimes, they seek other leadership roles to influence change in the environment in which they work including their clinics, health services, hospitals, medical organisations or communities. By experiencing the challenges of leadership first hand, the doctors develop a deeper awareness of the need to collaborate effectively and to support other leaders. Great doctors build strong relationships with colleagues, family and friends. As doctors, they face excessive demands on a daily basis. To get the job done, many of us try to manage each day by unsuccessfully attempting to complete endless 'tick lists' at the expense of our professional and personal relationships. It is tempting to withdraw from contact with family and friends on time off if doctors have been interacting with hundreds of people during the week.