The Calling of Healthcare: Lessons from Quint Studer

Healthcare is more than a profession—it’s a calling. In an episode of I Don’t Care with Kevin Stevenson, Quint Studer, a renowned author, and healthcare leader, shared his journey, insights, and the profound truths from his book, The Calling: Why Healthcare is Special.

A Journey Rooted in Purpose

Quint’s passion for healthcare stems from his belief in its unique ability to connect purpose with action. Reflecting on his career, he emphasized that the work we do in healthcare begins with a "full emotional bank account." However, as challenges arise, this account can deplete if not regularly replenished.

His book was born out of a desire to help healthcare professionals refill their emotional reserves, embrace gratitude, and foster relationships. As he stated, “If you have a heart full of gratitude, it’s impossible to fit anything else.”

Building Relationships in Healthcare

Quint believes that relationships are at the core of success in healthcare. Whether it’s between colleagues, patients, or the community, relationships grounded in trust and authenticity make a significant difference. He advocates for asking meaningful questions like, "What’s your biggest concern or worry right now?" to understand and address the needs of both patients and employees.

During the pandemic, Quint observed the critical need for strong leadership and belonging. He stressed the importance of making employees feel valued and loved, stating, “If our own emotional bank account is empty, it’s hard to replenish others.”

Love as a Leadership Principle

One of the most profound takeaways from Quint’s discussion was his belief in love as a leadership value. He shared a personal story about the power of expressing love in professional settings, breaking stereotypes that often keep emotions out of the workplace. For Quint, love fosters accountability and strengthens commitment to a shared mission.

Advice for Aspiring Healthcare Leaders

For those entering the healthcare field, Quint offers two pieces of advice:

1. Be Kind to Yourself: Healthcare professionals often set high standards, but it’s essential to practice self-compassion.
2. Don’t Filter Out the Positives: Accept compliments and recognize the meaningful impact of your work.

Final Thoughts

Quint’s insights remind us that healthcare is a field where passion, purpose, and compassion intersect. By focusing on gratitude, building strong relationships, and leading with love, we can not only enhance our own well-being but also make a lasting impact on those we serve.

To all healthcare leaders and professionals: let’s take a moment to reflect on why we chose this path and how we can continue to make a difference every day.