7 Mental Habits That Keep Me Sane (Even as a Cancer Doctor Over 60)

Daily habits I rely on to stay calm, focused, and human — even in the pressure cooker of cancer care.

Stillness isn’t empty. It’s where clarity begins.

“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.” — Anne Lamott.

Some days, I carry stress like a second stethoscope. But I’ve learned to put it down.

I’ve learned the hard way:

You can’t care for others if you don’t first care for your mind.

These habits aren’t hacks — they’re lifelines.

I work in high-stakes rooms where time, emotion, and outcomes weigh heavily.

If I don’t guard my mind, I lose clarity.

Compassion.

Perspective.

Here are seven habits I rely on to stay steady — not perfect, but sane.

1. I Check in With Myself Before I Check Vitals or Emails.

I don’t let chaos in before I’m grounded. No inbox, no news, no noise.