Book Review: Microskills: Small Actions, Big Impact by Dr. Adaira Landry and Dr. Resa E. Lewiss
by Megan Park, PharmD, MBA, DPLA, CSSBB
In a recent Sharp Index Book Club discussion, participants delved into Microskills: Small Actions, Big Impact by Dr. Adaira Landry and Dr. Resa E. Lewiss, a book that offers a profound exploration of personal growth and professional success. The conversation was a rich tapestry of experiences and insights, highlighting key themes such as self-care, feedback, and work-life balance—particularly within demanding professions like healthcare.
Leadership Perspective
This book at first glance felt very familiar as they detail the ‘unwritten rules of work.’ However, upon reflecting, I realized the depth of what the familiar feeling meant. In the book, the authors discuss the enormous privilege that can come from knowing these unwritten rules. This book can be a powerful resource to share with your network, learners, and those in your sphere to aid in everyone’s growth and to aid in everyone’s communication and professional journey.
TL;DR:
The Sharp Index Book Club discussion on MicroSkills highlighted the significance of self-awareness, setting boundaries, seeking feedback, and creating a supportive work environment for personal growth and professional well-being, particularly in healthcare. Developing these critical MicroSkills can help us support each other on our communication journey.
Understanding the Unwritten Rules of Work
At first glance, Microskills may seem familiar, touching on what many know as the “unwritten rules of work.” However, as the book club discussion unfolded, it became evident that this familiarity speaks to the privilege of understanding these rules. The book provides a comprehensive guide to mastering these unspoken guidelines, making it a valuable resource for anyone seeking to navigate their professional landscape more effectively. The authors emphasize that knowing these rules can significantly impact one's career advancement and workplace dynamics, leveling the playing field for all.
Personal Development and Self-Care
One of the most compelling aspects of the book club discussion was the focus on personal development and self-care. Participants shared their struggles with maintaining well-being while balancing demanding careers. The book underscores the importance of self-awareness and boundary setting as crucial elements for personal growth. By highlighting the need for self-care, Dr. Landry and Dr. Lewiss address a critical issue in healthcare, where work culture often overlooks the personal health of its professionals.
The Art of Feedback
Effective feedback emerged as a central theme during the discussion. The book offers insightful strategies on delivering feedback with empathy and understanding the recipient's preferences. The participants emphasized that balancing honesty with compassion is essential for providing constructive criticism. By creating a personal “Board of Directors,” individuals can navigate which feedback to embrace and how to use it for growth, a strategy that can significantly enhance professional development.
Accountability and Self-Care
The balance between accountability and self-care is a delicate one. The book club members discussed the importance of recognizing and eliminating redundant tasks, delegating responsibilities, and focusing on fulfilling activities to sustain motivation and engagement. This theme resonated strongly, particularly in high-stress environments like healthcare, where maintaining mental clarity and avoiding burnout are paramount.
Effective Communication
Communication is the cornerstone of professional and personal relationships. The book highlights the importance of empathy and understanding in interactions, which can enhance conflict resolution and relationship building. Participants shared personal reflections on the transformative power of effective communication, emphasizing that mastering this skill requires continuous learning and adaptation.
Financial Stability
Another significant theme was the role of financial stability in achieving work-life balance. The book club discussion touched on the importance of financial competence in maintaining well-being while pursuing professional goals. Participants shared their experiences and challenges in striving for financial stability, offering valuable insights into this often-overlooked aspect of professional life.
TakeawayConclusion:
The Sharp Index Book Club's discussion on Microskills: Small Actions, Big Impact illuminated the essential practices for achieving personal and professional growth. Through a combination of self-awareness, boundary setting, effective feedback, and prioritizing well-being, the book provides a robust framework for navigating the complexities of modern work life. Particularly for those in demanding fields like healthcare, developing these microskills can lead to a more balanced, fulfilling professional journey.
In summary, Microskills by Dr. Adaira Landry and Dr. Resa E. Lewiss is a powerful resource for anyone seeking to enhance their personal and professional lives. It offers practical advice grounded in empathy and understanding, making it a must-read for those looking to make a big impact through small actions.
Key Takeaways on Personal Growth and Professional Well-Being
Unwritten Rules of Work:
Understanding the unwritten rules of the workplace is a privilege that can significantly impact one's professional journey. These rules often influence career advancement and workplace dynamics. This book helps level the playing field and describes critical skill building to aid one’s professional success professionally.
Personal Development and Self-Care:
Many during the book club shared their personal journeys with self-care, handling criticism, and making well-being a priority. The discussion highlighted the challenges faced in healthcare, the impact of work culture on health, and the importance of creating a supportive environment.
Importance of Feedback:
Effective feedback is crucial. It should be delivered with empathy and tailored to the recipient's preferences. Balancing honesty with compassion helps in providing constructive criticism. Balancing feedback received with a created ‘Board of Directors’ can help you navigate what feedback to keep and how to grow in that area.
Accountability and Self-Care:
Maintaining accountability while prioritizing self-care is essential. Recognizing redundant tasks, delegating responsibilities, and focusing on fulfilling activities can help sustain motivation and engagement.
Effective Communication:
Communication is the cornerstone of healthy professional and personal relationships. Developing empathy and understanding in interactions can enhance conflict resolution and relationship building.
Financial Stability:
Financial stability is integral to achieving work-life balance. Participants discussed the importance of financial competence in maintaining well-being while pursuing professional goals.
Mental Health Book Club:
Sharp Index is hosting monthly community meetings with a book club. For each donation, the monthly selected book will be donated to students in medicine. https://sharpindex.org/sharp-book-club Connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for mental health and wellbeing. Our members come together to support each other, share experiences, and foster a sense of community. Whether you're joining our virtual events or setting up local in-person meetings, you'll find a network of supportive, caring individuals dedicated to personal growth and wellness.
Join the Mental Health Book Club to get special materials and donate books to students monthly.