I’m on a mission to help doctors lead a fulfilling life.
Dr Erwin Kwun
Who am I
I was born in Mauritius. Growing up, I didn’t have any confidence and my communication skill was awful.
In sixth form, they gave me an award- ‘Shyest Student of the Year.’ Can you believe that? It’s like I had built this whole identity around being shy.
Speaking in a group felt like climbing Everest. I wish I could be more outgoing. Honestly, the shyness felt like a chain holding me back.
One time, I was roped into speaking in front of an audience. As usual, nobody else volunteered. I reluctantly agreed. Standing there on stage with hundreds of pairs of eyes on me, I felt like I was going to die. My heart raced and I could hardly articulate my words.
As I walked away from the stage, I realised my ‘shy’ label had turned into a massive barrier. I have stayed in my comfort zone far too long and wasted my potential. It was time to ditch the ‘Shyest kid of the year’ Title and re-create myself.
Stepping out of my comfort zone, I embarked on adventures and embraced challenges that once seemed insurmountable. So, I took the leap and enrolled in a public speaking course. When it was my turn to speak, I felt the adrenaline rush and I stumbled over my words. My old insecurities whispering that I couldn’t do it. I took a deep breath and started talking. It was far from perfect but it was a start.
With each person I approached on behalf of the British Red Cross, I wasn’t just raising funds but breaking down that barrier I had built, one conversation at a time. Speaking in front of strangers was hard but I kept pushing myself. I didn’t just learn to speak but I found my voice. My accent once a source of insecurity became a signature of my new identity. No longer shying away, I embraced my voice.
As I honed my skills, I started feeling my confidence catching up. I eventually broke down the barrier that kept me from fulfilling my potential for so long. With the newfound confidence, life has unlocked new opportunities, including speaking at conferences.
Prioritising Health & Wellbeing
After graduation, I got my first job as a doctor in Yorkshire. I was thrilled to start a new chapter. Little did I know what was waiting for me. The transition from being a medical student to an F1 doctor was hard.
There were times when I doubted my career choice and considered leaving medicine. Due to the intensity and pressure of work, I frequently finished work late, skipped breaks. I struggled working night shift because of the negative impact on my sleep. Occasionally, I was asked to cross-cover another ward due to under staffing issues. Back then, I would just do what I was told to avoid conflict. I soon realised some people took advantage of the situation and became more demanding. I learnt to set boundaries and become more assertive.
Striving for a healthy work-life balance was difficult due to long hours, weekends and nights. I was aware that continuing down that path would lead to burn out. I decided to attend to my wellbeing and put my oxygen mask on first. That decision was an inflection point.
The younger me was too afraid to ask for help. I’ve learnt that seeking support is not a weakness but a sign of strength. I have witnessed colleagues who suffered in silence and burnt out. It is heartbreaking and something completely preventable.
Every doctor deserves to thrive. My mission is to help doctors lead a happy and fulfilling life.
Awards
My dedication and work have earned me several prestigious awards, including Manchester Leadership Gold Award in recognition of my service and commitment to the wider community and Best GP Trainee Award for my work in improving doctors’ wellbeing.
Learning & Teaching
I studied medicine at The University of Manchester and have attained MRCGP in 2021. I completed a Postgraduate Certificate at University of East London, focusing on applied positive psychology and coaching psychology. The learning and experience have informed my approach to help people and organisations flourish. I’m frequently invited to deliver speeches and run workshops on wellbeing and high performance.
Being passionate about learning and teaching, I also enjoy helping GP trainees succeed in their MRCGP SCA exam.
Want to Pass SCA
Then, you’ll love SCA Blueprint
Purpose of this website
On this website, you will find articles to advance your career and lead a more fulfilling life. I share ideas, concepts and lessons that have helped me over the years. I hope the resources help you.
Fulfilled Friday
Every Friday, I send out an email to share my latest work. Fulfilled Friday is a weekly email newsletter for doctors, entrepreneurs, and high performers who want to maximise their potential and thrive.
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Get in Touch
Connect with me on Instagram @drerwinkwun. DM me if you’ve got a question or message.
Drop me an email at erwinkwun@gmail.com if it’s something longer. I will do my best to reply to your email.
