If someone sent this to you, it's because they want you to read these words. If you needed them, please send them to someone else.
Hey,
This is a message for a truly awesome human.
Yes, you – the one reading this right now. Take a deep breath and let this sink in: you are incredible, just as you are. Not because of your extra letters (or lack thereof), your house, your car, your body or your bank balance.
Let's get real for a moment. Veterinary medicine? It's tough sometimes. It's demanding, as well as rewarding. It's a rollercoaster of emotions. We get it. We've been there, we are there. Change is afoot behind the scenes with many people doing great things, but we can't deny that it's hard at the moment out there.
Here's a reminder we all need now and then – you're so much more than your job title. Whether you're a new grad, a client care team member, a seasoned specialist, or anywhere in between, your value isn't tied to your role or your years of experience. You're a whole, unique human being with dreams, quirks, and a perspective that no one else in this world has.
Let's bust a myth right now: let's ditch the ideas of there being a hierarchy of worth in this profession. Your voice, your ideas, your concerns – they matter. Whether you're the practice owner or the newest member of the team, you have valuable insights to offer. Don't let anyone make you feel small or insignificant. You have the power to speak up, to make changes, to challenge the status quo. You're also allowed to walk away to a space you're more valued.
Remember this: even if you never practiced in veterinary medicine again, you'd still be enough. Your worth isn't tied to your career, even when you forget that. If you decide to leave clinical practice, change fields, or pursue a completely different path, you're still valuable. You're still you. And that's more than enough. The only you on this planet.
You bring so much more to the table than your clinical skills. When your colleagues think of you, they're not tallying up your surgical times or diagnostic successes. They're remembering your kindness, your humour, the way you always know just what to say to lift their spirits on a tough day. Maya Angelou said "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel".
We also know that some people reading this will be struggling, and will feel as though they aren't particularly kind. We see you, we hear you. Dare to seek some support and realise change is possible.
Here's something crucial: you are allowed – no, you need – to take time for yourself. Your wellbeing isn't just important; it's essential. Your dreams, your hobbies, your life outside of work – these things matter. Don't ever let anyone make you feel guilty for prioritising yourself. Nobody on the deathbed says they wish they took that extra shift back in 2024.
Whatever challenge you're facing right now, we want you to know this: you've got this. You have the strength, the grit, and the capability to handle it. And on the days when you don't feel strong? That's okay too. You're human. You'll have all the emotions – the joy, the frustration, the sadness, the excitement. These feelings will come in waves, and sometimes they'll feel overwhelming. But remember, waves always recede. No feeling lasts forever. Breathe.
You're not alone in this. There's always support out there. Reaching out isn't a sign of weakness; it's a sign of strength and self awareness. Whether it's to friends, family, or professional support services like Vetlife (24/7, for UK vet professionals 0303 040 2551) – please ask for help when you need it.
Listen up, because this is important: you have the power to be the change in our profession. This doesn't mean you have to run a campaign or start a company. Your ideas, your compassion, your unique approach – these can spark positive changes that ripple out far beyond your immediate circle. Don't ever think you're too small or too 'inexperienced' to make a difference. Every great change starts with one person deciding to do something different. Take the break. Give the kind words. Dare to take time for yourself.
And here's something else you might not realise: you inspire others. Even when you don't see it, there are people watching you, learning from you, being moved by your dedication and your heart. You make a difference just by being you.
So, remember this: you are valued, you are important, and you are so much more than your job title or your achievements. You are you – uniquely, wonderfully, gloriously you. And that is more than enough.
Keep shining your light. Keep being your amazing self. Keep speaking up and challenging the norm. The world of veterinary medicine – and the world at large – is better because you're in it.
You've got this. We believe in you. Now go out there and show the world just how amazing you are!
Together, we can all make a difference.
Love,
Team Vet Empowered
P.S. If these words hit home, why not pass them on? Share this message with a colleague, a classmate, or anyone in the veterinary world who might need a reminder of their own amazingness today. Let's create a wave of positivity and empowerment in our wonderful, challenging, incredible profession!
Want to gift these words? A very similar message was created by Katie in her To An Amazing Vet series, which you can find here.
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