Exploring the Unity of Live Concerts and Healthcare Careers

Last week, I went to a concert.

Now this may not seem like a newsworthy event, it probably wasn’t, but you are stuck with my editorial decisions within this newsletter. The reason that concert attendance was notable was the fact that I generally try to avoid large crowds and as a result, I have not attended a concert in years. I was genuinely surprised by the experience. Thousands of people were singing, dancing, and experiencing a transcendent event together as a group.

I started researching concert culture, revenues, and attendance trends (yes, I did this during the concert, thank you ADHD brain). As 2023 continues to unfold, the music industry is witnessing record-breaking live concert revenues. Among the notable achievements, Taylor Swift and Beyoncé have both crossed the billion-dollar threshold in their respective concert tours this year, captivating audiences around the globe. Concert ticket sales are expected to surpass $25 billion this year. Concert promoter Live Nation reported a 73% increase in ticket revenue in the first quarter of 2023 compared to 2022. Let's look at the psychology behind concert attendance to explain why people are willing to spend thousands of dollars on a single event (The average resale price of a Taylor Swift Eras tour ticket is $3801).?

The Neuroscience of Live Concerts

People have an innate fascination with live concerts for a multitude of reasons. Our brains are wired to value experiential activities, and attending concerts is no exception. The sensory stimulation, vibrant visuals, and pulsating sounds create an immersive experience that triggers excitement and engagement. Moreover, research suggests that attending concerts can lead to the release of positive endorphins, reducing cortisol levels and promoting a sense of well-being.

The Power of Togetherness and Connection

One of the most captivating aspects of live concerts is the sense of togetherness and unity they evoke. Much like the camaraderie found in cheering for a favorite sports team, attending concerts provides a powerful feeling of being part of something greater than oneself. This sentiment is unique, especially in a world where it's increasingly rare for 60,000 individuals to come together in agreement and harmony.

Parallels to Healthcare Careers

But what does this have to do with healthcare careers, you ask?

As healthcare professionals, we're all human beings who crave connection, community, and purpose. As we strive for work-life balance and emotional well-being, engaging in group activities that foster a sense of togetherness becomes essential. In our careers, we should remember that humans want connection and purpose. Our jobs can provide that although it probably won’t come from workplace wellness seminars or an annual corporate picnic.?

Driving Togetherness in Healthcare Careers

Here are some practical ways healthcare professionals can cultivate a sense of togetherness within their careers:

1. Find your "Why": Instead of fixating on the negatives, focus on the positives of your healthcare career. Frame challenges as opportunities to make a difference in patients' lives. Simon Sinek popularized this term as a shorthand for finding your purpose or what makes you tick. His Ted Talk “Start with Why” is one of the most-watched Ted Talks of all time.?

1. Lead with Purpose: Every licensed healthcare professional is a leader in their capacity. It's crucial to guide your team by helping them understand the "why" behind decisions and tasks. Team huddles and clear communication can foster alignment. One way I am working the implement the “why” is through changes to our student educational curriculum. We are making changes to better explain to students what we expect them to learn with each task assigned. By helping them understand the reasons behind each assignment, it helps them buy-in and understand that they are part of something bigger.
2. Create Bonds and Unity: Encourage bonding and team building through meaningful activities. Consider events like charity drives, team lunches, or collaborative projects. I spent many years In the Army participating in mandated team-building events designed to build unit cohesion and morale. I hated these events but they also served a purpose; to bring together people from different backgrounds and unite them as a single unit. While "mandatory fun" might not be the answer, well-designed activities can foster a sense of unity. Tech companies have excelled in this area (see the power of free food and other employee perks).?

A Balancing Act

Certainly, healthcare careers come with their share of challenges: demanding workloads, long hours, and limited autonomy over how the work gets done. However, by embracing the principles of connection and purpose, healthcare professionals can find renewed energy and fulfillment in their daily endeavors.

As we navigate the complexities of our healthcare careers, let's remember that we are part of a larger whole, striving to make a difference in the lives of our patients and communities. Let the spirit of unity that resonates through live concerts inspire us to create lasting connections and positive impacts within our healthcare journeys.

Thank you for your dedication to the healthcare profession, and remember, we're all in this together.

Frank's Financial Corner - with Frank Randall, MPA

5 Essential Tips for Healthcare Professionals: Secure Your Financial Future

As a licensed medical professional, securing your financial future is crucial. Start by setting a budget and tracking expenses to ensure wise spending. Prioritize saving for emergencies, and retirement — automate contributions to make it easier. Diversify your investments, considering your risk tolerance, tax implications, and time horizon. Insurance is vital; protect yourself with malpractice coverage and long-term disability insurance. Remember, your career is rewarding, but planning early will bring long-term financial peace. Stay disciplined and seek professional advice to build a strong financial foundation for a brighter tomorrow.

Need help with your finances? Frank Randall, MPA is a Financial Advisor serving the medical community Book a complementary meeting with Frank here.

This newsletter is made possible through the support of ThriveAP, a transition-to-practice solution for NPs, PAs, and the facilities that employ them.?

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Want to learn more about finding your why? Check out these books below: