Sometimes you might encounter a posting you don’t enjoy. In fact, many HOs, even the most hardworking or ‘capable’ ones, struggle in certain departments. It might be due to long hours, steep learning curves, unsupportive colleagues, or simply because the specialty doesn’t align with your interests. Regardless, every posting must be completed — so the real question is: how to cope and survive it without burning out?

Shift the mindset: from “endurance” to “learning”

Instead of counting down days, try reframing the posting as an opportunity to gain skills that may not seem valuable now but will matter later, especially when you become a Medical Officer (MO).

Ask yourself: “What can I pick up here that will be useful for me as an MO?” Even if you dislike the environment, the skills and resilience you build will follow you throughout your career.

Even if you dislike the environment, the skills and resilience you build will follow you throughout your career.

Build small support systems

Surviving a tough posting is much easier with allies.

• Connect with fellow HOs —cover each other when possible.
• Identify approachable MOs or specialists who are willing to teach.
• Keep in touch with friends or family outside the hospital for emotional balance.

A strong support system prevents you from feeling isolated.

Take care of your basics

When the workload feels overwhelming, neglecting yourself makes it worse.

• Sleep whenever you can — even a short nap helps if you are too tired. Click here for the sharing related to sleep & post-call fatigue.
• Eat proper meals — don’t rely solely on caffeine and snacks.
• Exercise lightly — even 10 minutes of stretching or a short walk helps release stress.
  Your body is your strongest asset during HOship — don’t burn it out too early.

Separate work from self-worth

Some postings come with harsh words, constant scolding, or unrealistic demands. It’s easy to internalize this and feel like you’re not good enough. Learn from feedback, but don’t let toxic comments define you.

Create small wins

Instead of waiting for the posting to end, look for daily victories:

• A patient you managed well.
• A skill you performed better than yesterday.
• A day you went home earlier than expected.
  Celebrating small wins gives you momentum to keep going.

Keep the bigger picture in mind

HOship is temporary. Six postings may feel long, but once you’ve completed them, you’ll never have to go back. Remind yourself: this is just a phase. Every day survived is one day closer to finishing.

Not every posting will suit your personality or future goals. But each one shapes you into a more capable, resilient doctor. Instead of seeing the “difficult posting” as wasted time, treat it as training for grit, adaptability, and survival — qualities every good doctor needs.

If you’re struggling, know this: you’re not alone, and it will get better.