Robert Sithole, third-year medical student, offers inspiration to other third-year student doctors who are struggling against self-doubt.

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As someone who stumbled in high school and then faced the harsh reality of failing my first year of medical school, I've come to understand the crucial importance of resilience in this demanding journey. Through my own experiences, I've learned valuable lessons in developing coping skills, learning from failure, and maintaining well-being.

First and foremost, developing coping skills has been fundamental to my resilience in medical school. When faced with overwhelming stress and challenges, I've discovered the power of finding healthy outlets to manage my emotions. Whether it's taking a walk, practicing mindfulness, or confiding in a trusted friend or mentor, having coping mechanisms in place has helped me navigate through tough times without feeling completely overwhelmed. Learning to recognise when I need a break and giving myself permission to step back, and recharge has been essential in sustaining my mental and emotional well-being throughout this journey.

Failure has been a harsh but invaluable teacher on my path to resilience. Failing my second year of medical school was a devastating blow to my confidence and self-esteem. However, instead of letting it define me, I chose to view it as an opportunity for growth. I've learned to embrace failure as a natural part of the learning process and a stepping stone to success. Each setback has taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, adaptability, and the importance of resilience. By reframing failure as a chance to learn and improve, I've been able to bounce back stronger and more determined than ever before.

In the midst of the relentless demands of medical school, maintaining well-being has been a constant struggle. It's all too easy to neglect self-care in pursuit of academic excellence, but I've come to realise that my well-being is non-negotiable. Again, it is NON-NEGOTIABLE.  Prioritising sleep, nutrition, exercise, and social connections has been essential in sustaining my physical and mental health. Making time for activities that bring me joy and fulfilment, whether it's reading a book, spending time outdoors, or pursuing a hobby, has been crucial in preventing burnout and maintaining a sense of balance in my life. 

Above all, resilience in medical school is about embracing the journey with courage, perseverance, and a willingness to learn and grow from every experience, both positive and negative. It's about acknowledging that setbacks and challenges are inevitable, but they do not define our worth or our potential. By cultivating coping skills, embracing failure as a teacher, and prioritising our well-being, we can navigate the complexities of medical school with resilience and emerge stronger, more compassionate, and more capable physicians.

As I continue on this challenging yet rewarding journey, I am reminded that resilience is not just about overcoming adversity, but about thriving in the face of it. And with each hurdle I overcome, I am reminded of the incredible resilience that lies within each of us, waiting to be unleashed.

Stand firm in knowing that you would’ve not made it if you didn’t have what it takes to make it.  March forth.