Reflections on Patagonia

I just finished hiking the “O Circuit” (or “Big Circuit” to the Chilean locals!) with 10 friends and colleagues from the biotech/pharma industry. We covered ~90 miles in 9 days over some of the most beautiful terrain I’ve ever seen (and I’ve traveled a lot!). 

During the trip, there were plenty of discussions on the trail about science and technology. Other interesting topics included someone’s new idea for a potential therapeutic approach, how biotech stocks are performing, who’s considering a new role or looking to hire, etc. 

Throughout the trip, the days were “short” if we were hiking ~4-5 hours and the longest day was over the famed John Garner Pass; a hefty 11 hours of trekking. As an introvert, there were times I needed quiet solitude to recharge. In those moments, I would fall back to the end of the single file line and lose myself in my thoughts. The items on my travel bucket list, topics I wanted to learn more about (wine and sommelier school!) and reflections on the people I am grateful for in my life were a few of the notions that came up during these walking meditations. Additionally, my career aspirations, credit for what I’ve accomplished and listing what else I want from my career were trail thoughts.

I find that it is easy to get wrapped up in the to-do list and everything that is perhaps stressing me out. In these times, I encourage you to take time in nature and go for a walk. Use this time to clear your mind and define what is truly important to you. 

Some questions you can use to fuel the walking meditation include:

What do you value in your career? 

What brings you joy? 

What do you procrastinate doing? 

How do you want to use your talents?

Enjoy the ability to let your mind wander… see what comes up when you allow space.

Ready to make a career transition to pharma/biotech… want to explore a way to use your medical training and knowledge in a fulfilling way without nights and weekends call or charting. Watch this webinar on Getting Past the Three Major Hurdles to a Career in the Pharma Industry HERE.