Hobbies can provide individuals with the chance to have some ‘me’ time and serve as an outlet for releasing the stress built up from work, which is significantly relevant in the field of Medicine where doctors can easily feel overwhelmed from work. Other benefits of hobbies also extend to adding a sense of fulfilment and sparking inspiration, which can lead to better work performance. Taking the initiative to find time amidst a hectic schedule can be challenging, especially when the temptation to rest on off-days is so high. We hear from Dr Khoo Chun Yuet and Dr Wu Jingting, 2 General Surgery Residents about their ‘alternate’ lives beyond work at the clinic.
Dr Khoo embarking on a nature trail in his free time
Let us start with Dr Khoo! Dr Khoo, do you participate in any ‘extracurricular activities’ outside of work? If yes, what are they?
Dr Khoo: Yes, I am more of an outdoorsy type, so I really enjoy going on nature hikes and mountaineering.
Of the many outdoor sports, what made you choose hiking and mountaineering in your leisure time?
Dr Khoo: Going on nature hikes and mountaineering helps me unwind, keep fit and connect with nature in the process.
How have you felt engaging in activities like hiking and mountaineering?
Dr Khoo: They help relax my mind and make me feel refreshed! Engaging in these activities in my leisure time reminds me that regardless of the possible struggles in our lives, we always have a spark that can brighten our days. Whenever I clear the trails during hiking and mountaineering, it always gives me a sense of happiness and accomplishment. Participating in activities that you enjoy doing can be more beneficial to your well-being than you think.
We agree that engaging in activities of our interest can bring positive benefits to our well-being. Would you share with us some of the insights you got from going for the hiking and mountaineering activities?
Dr Khoo: The paths may not always be smooth when it comes to hiking and mountaineering. Sometimes, my peers and I even encounter sudden bad weathers where we will have to halt our activities and seek shelter from the rain. These experiences have taught me how to handle challenges with humility and patience, together as a team. There are no shortcuts in life.
How about you, Dr Wu, what ‘extracurricular activities’ do you enjoy in your free time?
Dr Wu: In my free time, one activity I enjoy is playing the viola. For those unfamiliar, the viola is a slightly larger instrument than the violin, with a slightly lower pitch. I have been studying the violin and then the viola since I was four years old. Not many would know that there was a time in my life when I seriously contemplated pursuing music as a career - I even applied to several music schools before ultimately deciding to study medicine.
Wow, a former plan to pursue a musical career before you ultimately decided to embark on your journey in Medicine. That is pleasantly surprising and a significant contrast! Would you share with us what got you interested in playing the viola out of the many musical instruments?
Dr Wu: Playing the viola brings me a sense of solace and familiarity. It holds a special place in my heart as it has been a fundamental part of my formative years.
What insights have you gained from playing the viola in your pockets of free time?
Dr Wu: The act of creating music, particularly with an instrument like the viola, which often accompanies other instruments rather than taking the spotlight, has imparted valuable lessons in teamwork and active listening. Through my journey, I have come to appreciate the importance of collaboration and harmonising with others. It has taught me the art of truly listening to others, adjusting my performance to complement theirs, and collectively creating something beautiful. Playing the viola has given me a deeper understanding of the power of teamwork and the significance of every individual's contribution to the larger whole.
We thank Dr Khoo and Dr Wu for sharing their experiences with us. It is heartening to learn that the ‘alternate’ lives of our Residents have brought them much comfort and sense of well-being outside of their tight schedules at work. With their responses, we can conclude that there is a positive impact on us in having hobbies and engaging in ‘extracurricular activities’ beyond work, because the insights attained from participating in these unassuming activities can serve as lessons applicable to work and even life in general!
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