Episode Summary: In this episode, Dr. Onwuemene recommends that clinician researchers opt out of the clinical productivity bonus. Tune in to explore why focusing on clinical productivity metrics could be hindering your research progress

Key Takeaways:

1. Avoid Hard-for-Hard’s-Sake Work: Clinicians are often conditioned to tackle tough challenges, but focusing on clinical productivity goals might lead to more hustle in the wrong areas. Dr. Onwuemene discusses how identifying and resisting this inclination can help you prioritize research efforts.
2. Understand Productivity Bonuses as Incentives, Not Rewards: Productivity bonuses are structured to push you toward more clinical work—not necessarily to reward your existing efforts. Dr. Onwuemene explains why these incentives may not align with advancing your research or professional growth.
3. Prioritize Your Research Goals: Instead of striving for a clinical bonus, invest your energy in meeting personal research milestones. Setting research targets that are both ambitious and aligned with your long-term career goals can yield far greater satisfaction.
4. Create a Strategic Plan: Plan for research success by organizing your tasks in advance. Dr. Onwuemene highlights how a strategic, forward-looking approach helps to ensure that your research receives the attention it needs.
5. Weekly Planning for Progress: Weekly planning is needed to balance clinic responsibilities with research. Make sure to allocate dedicated time for writing, manuscript submission, and grant preparation to advance your research goals.
6. Write Regularly to Foster Progress: When it comes to research productivity, writing is a keystone habit. By maintaining a consistent writing practice, you keep your research moving forward and build momentum toward publication.
7. Minimize Clinical Work Creep: Resist allowing clinical work to encroach on your research time. This might mean saying no to clinical bonuses or extra shifts that detract from your primary research objectives.

Quote of the Episode: "Clinical productivity bonuses aren’t neutral rewards—they’re incentives designed to keep you working harder in the clinic. If you want to grow as a researcher, it’s time to ask if they’re worth your time."

Call to Action: If you found today’s episode insightful, please share it with a colleague who might be juggling similar challenges. And don’t forget to connect with Dr. Onwuemene on LinkedIn to continue the conversation!

Sponsor/Advertising/Monetization Information:

This episode is sponsored by Coag Coach LLC, a leading provider of coaching resources for clinicians transitioning to become research leaders. Coag Coach LLC is committed to supporting clinicians in their scholarship.

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Sign up for a coaching discovery call today: https://www.coagcoach.com/service-page/consultation-call-1

Thank you for tuning in to the Clinician Researcher Podcast!