Tenacity vs. Stubbornness: Knowing When to Hold 'Em, When to Fold 'Em

Women in medicine are no strangers to tenacity. We've clawed our way through grueling exams, demanding residencies, and the ever-present challenges of working in a male-dominated field. But sometimes, that very tenacity can morph into something much less helpful: stubbornness. And let's face it, in a profession where we’re managing life and death, knowing the difference can be crucial for our patients and ourselves.

So, how do we tell them apart?

Think of it like this: tenacity is a river, stubbornness is a dam.

Tenacity flows. It's about perseverance with an open mind—the drive that keeps you going when the diagnosis is elusive or advocating fiercely for your patient, even when met with resistance. Tenacity adapts, finds workarounds, and, ultimately, keeps moving forward. Stubbornness stagnates. It rigidly clings to a course of action even when it's clearly not working. It refuses to consider new information or alternative perspectives. Stubbornness blocks the flow, creating a pressure buildup that can eventually crack under the strain.

Here's a quick checklist to help you discern:

• Are you open to feedback?  Tenacity welcomes it; stubbornness rejects it.

• Can you adapt your approach? Tenacity pivots when necessary; stubbornness stays fixed.

• Are you focused on the goal or being "right"? Tenacity seeks the best outcome; stubbornness clings to its own position.

• Are you taking care of yourself? Tenacity knows when to rest and recharge; stubbornness pushes until (or even through) burnout.

Why does this matter, especially for us?

Burnout is rampant among women physicians. We're often conditioned to push harder and do more while socialized to ignore our needs inside and outside of work.  Mistaking stubbornness for tenacity can trap us in this cycle, leading to exhaustion, resentment, and, ultimately, compromising our ability to care for our patients.

The Bottom Line: tenacity is a powerful tool, but it needs to be wielded wisely.  Recognizing when it's crossed the line into stubbornness allows us to step back, reassess, and choose a healthier, more effective path.  Sometimes, the most tenacious thing we can do is let go, change course, and prioritize our own well-being.