Finding clarity for your next career move – as a learning physiotherapist

During our undergraduate physio degree, we acquire a broad view of the many areas of physiotherapy – musculoskeletal, respiratory, neurological, paediatric, amongst others. Clinical placements open our eyes as to what is involved in that speciality – these experiences help us understand whether that is the area we want to work in after we qualify as a physio. After getting our BSc in physiotherapy, some new grads go straight into hospital rotations in the public sector; others dive into private practice; some get involved in amateur or pro sport…the options are endless for physios.

I decided to study further to specialise in the area that I was passionate about – sports medicine. That MSc opened doors for me to get involved in pro soccer as a pitch-side lead physio, and gave me the confidence to open my own private physiotherapy practice. The former worked out well for me; the latter was hard work from the outset with constant uphill battles against covering overheads and ensuring I had adequate customers coming into the clinic. But – it was an invaluable experience. I learned a lot about the potential pitfalls and what is vital for a practice to survive, prosper and become profitable.

Roll forward a decade and a bit – I have worked in several private practices with lead clinicians, attended many courses and conferences, worked in pro rugby and pro soccer, moved to London from Dublin, and worked in a prestigious internationally-renowned centre there, made friends, created life-long relationships, got married, had a child, worked with US pro sport…and now back in Dublin building several projects with a friend and trusted colleague…ranging from a podcast to a corporate wellbeing company - to a mentoring, and learning and development platform – this one. That was busy, but fun! (had another child too!)

My career pathway has not been on a straight road – far from it. There have been many turns and twists. There have been mistakes, failures, challenges, opportunities missed…but – there have been many blissful moments, wins, successes, amazing relationships forged, and unexpected wondrous moments. As Peter Hagerty once said, “life is a journey, and if you fall in love with the journey, you will be in love forever.”

You will have choices to make in your own careers as learning physiotherapists – continue the path in front of you, venture left, or take a gamble and turn right. The choice, for the most part will be yours – of course you will have personal and family reasons that may impact decisions in your physio career path - but do try to think about your purpose. Life is short – you need to enjoy what you do.

Be able to answer some important reflective questions with clarity and precision - What do you want to do? What lights you up? What gives you energy? Who do you want to dig a trench with? How can you improve on your weak spots? Where can you improve? How can you learn better? Who should you confide in? Who is the right mentor for you at that point in time? Is that want you want to do? Is this what you expected? Is it worth the compromise, the effort, the graft?

2020 has been a whirlwind. It is gone now. 2021 is here. What is your next move as a learning physiotherapist?

David Clancy,

Facilitator of Learning

#learnandgiveback