🩺 Scrub In: The Motivated Med Life

I have big dreams—and sometimes, they carry me away.

The other day, while I should have been focused on the task in front of me (Step 1 studying), I caught myself daydreaming about where writing this blog could take me. Because of my big dreams, I’m always thinking about big things—what’s possible, what’s next, and how I can make them real.

Dreaming big is one of my strengths. It’s part of why I’m in medical school today. I’ve always wanted to use my position to tackle meaningful issues in my community and the world. I want my life to challenge the status quo—not necessarily to be remembered, but to be counted among those who made life a little better for others. Specifically, I hope to make change in healthcare as a medical professional.

These big dreams fuel me, keep me curious, and give me hope—especially when life feels overwhelming. As I take extra time to study for Step 1 (which feels like it’s taking forever), my big dreams remind me to look forward rather than backward. Without them, I wouldn’t push myself to try new things or imagine a different future.

But I’ll be honest—having big dreams has a flip side. Sometimes I get stuck in the idea stage, thinking so far ahead that I forget to focus on the step right in front of me. Other times, my own ambition overwhelms me, and I don’t know where to start. Big dreams are wonderful, but without vision and structure, they can remain just that—dreams.

That’s where S.M.A.R.T. goals come in.

S.M.A.R.T. Goals:

• Specific
• Measurable
• Achievable
• Relevant
• Time-Bound

I used SMART goals often when studying for block exams (like Cardio, Renal, Reproduction, or Pulmonary) because knowing what to study, how much to study, and how long to dedicate to each subject made all the difference. If you’d like me to share how I apply SMART goals to studying, let me know in the comments—I’d love to include it in my upcoming study skills posts.

But back to my big dreams—and how they sometimes run away with me if I don’t stay grounded.

What I’m learning is that balance is everything. Big dreams need big energy, but they also need patience and structure. I’ve started breaking my goals into smaller, doable actions—things I can actually complete in a day or a week. Applying SMART goals to everyday tasks helps me make the most of my limited time. Writing my ideas down helps, too; it’s my way of honoring the dream without letting it take over my headspace.

I’m still figuring it out, but one thing is clear: my big dreams are part of who I am. They remind me there’s always something worth striving for. And even if I don’t achieve them all, the act of chasing them makes me stronger, braver, and more creative.

So if you’re like me—and your big dreams sometimes carry you away—don’t be discouraged. Let them inspire you, then ground them in small, steady steps. That’s how dreams turn into reality.