IWD - Tisshapaa Sivagnanan

Q: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?   

A: “One step at a time”

This one phrase has been my guiding light through the most disastrous of days. I have often found myself trapped in cycles of seemingly never ending to do lists. I find that I need to be a little bit more kind and patient with myself on these days, which has been a learning experience in itself. During the days I feel trapped, I repeat this phrase in my head to zoom in on the to do list, in a bid to redirect my energy and my focus to the task at hand and away from the overwhelming feelings anxiety brought upon by the growing weight of responsibility. 

Q: How did you gain your confidence to take on leadership roles in medicine?

A: It has been reported that men apply for a job when they meet 60% of the required qualifications whereas women apply only if they meet 100% of these qualifications. I have certainly found this statistic reflected in my own journey, where I have been discouraged to apply for roles due to my self-perceived lack of suitability. Therefore, the encouragement, empowerment, and support from those who have come before me has played an integral foundation for my self-confidence. Observing and engaging with strong, powerful, and empathetic women in leadership roles has been a driving force, steering my own personal journey. 

Q: How do you unplug from work?  

A: In all honesty I am still learning how to unplug from work, especially when the majority of my work is conducted in an online, working from home setting. Currently, I schedule in time for myself, friends, and family into my work calendar to ensure I create space for not only myself but those who are most important to me. Being surrounded by my friends and family allows me to gain perspective on the challenges I am facing and reminds me that I am so much more than just my role. At the end of the day whatever leadership role or job we find ourselves in, it is simply just a small little snippet of our whole identity and person.  

Q: Where are you going for your next holiday?

A: I am currently overseas in Estonia representing Australian medical students at the International Federation of Medical Student Association’s general assembly. This week will be packed with upskilling sessions, general meetings, plenaries, and workshops. However, following on from this I’ll be taking a few days for myself exploring Finland! I am hoping to catch the Northern lights and soak up the different culture before heading back to Australia and getting straight back into the thick of it. Work hard, Play hard!