The Straw That Broke the Camel's Back

Do you remember the story? I honestly can’t recall where I heard it first; however, it is becoming increasingly relevant in almost every context. The phrase's origin is unclear, but it is believed to have roots in ancient Middle Eastern culture. It became popular in English-speaking countries in the 19th century, reflecting a universal understanding of endurance and limits. The fact that it has become such a beloved metaphor should give everyone pause, including those reading this today.

One of the many reasons that healthcare is in trouble is the degree of burnout we continue to tolerate until it finally happens. What seems insignificant is added to an overburdened back, and we finally (like the camel) give way. In our relentless pursuit of fulfilling multiple roles, we often neglect to establish the boundaries essential for our survival. If we don’t prioritize self-care, we may find ourselves among the last of a dying breed—a fate that serves as a stark reminder, captured in yet another timeless colloquialism.

I am grateful for having grown up in a family of talkers who refused to let things fester. It was strongly believed that by keeping things bottled up, we would eventually explode and not in the most graceful manner. This element still holds true today. But then the question becomes how we let it out (gracefully).

Over the years, I have designed a system of coping that has helped me and others around me to survive the chaos of life without letting it eat us alive. Here are a few of my suggestions one of which was previously mentioned.

1) Talk about it. Find a neutral party to vent your frustration. When I didn’t have a friend appropriate, I admit that I vented to God. Vent to a rock if you must, but the most important thing is getting it out. Stop screaming into your pillow. Vent it out.

2) Find an appropriate outlet that doesn’t harm others and especially doesn’t harm yourself. It could be gardening, cleaning up your disaster of an office, or adopting an independent sport that gives you the love and support you deserve.

3) Take a walk, take a breath, take a beat, and lay it down. Thirty seconds of surrender can have a natural healing effect that we don’t truly understand yet today.

I have a ton more, but these are just a few that may help you or someone with an abundance of stress. Don’t be the camel—there’s too much at stake right now. Make a plan and take care of yourself, not only for you but also for those who rely on you.