The PAUSE
Wise, loving, and inspired writings on the journey of life, love, and medicine
A physician wellness blog with practical tools for burnout recovery, boundaries, mindful leadership, and a life better lived — from Jessie Mahoney, MD.
About the Author: Jessie Mahoney, MD, is a board-certified pediatrician, certified coach, and physician wellness expert with over 20 years of experience as a leader in physician wellness, coaching, and mindful medicine
Sign up to receive Jessie’s wisdom in your inbox
Search for posts on a specific topic:
In addition to this blog, I publish regularly on KevinMD. These are some of the pieces that have been shared most widely
Why We Trim Trees
Tree trimming makes space. Allows light to shine through. Decreases heaviness.
It IS About You
I teach my clients that
most of the time
other people’s behaviors and reactions are “not about you.”
It’s not personal.
It’s about the other person’s inner struggle.
Stop Struggling About Struggling
Everyone struggles.
It’s not possible to live a life without struggle.
What You Practice Grows
I often get asked how I became such a model of calm and presence.
I wasn't always like this.
Is Your Maintenance Light On?
Even if the flashing light is caused by external challenges— bad roads or potholes, car maintenance still needs to be done to restore optimal performance and a great driving experience.
It Feels Bad and It Helps
Last week, someone hacked into my phone and replaced my SIM card.
Taking over all my data and information in an instant.
A most unpleasant crime.
A Minimalist Solution to The Vision Board
Creating a vision board is NOT my thing.
It’s not minimalist - too much glue, scraps, scissors.
I don’t get paper magazines anymore.
Give Your Best Energy to What Matters Most
Staying in places, jobs, and relationships with people, and things and that no longer “fit” you have a tremendous cost.
Are Holidays Hard On You? Feeling Better is Possible
Holidays are very often not my favorite days. Even with mindfulness, presence, mindset work, and good food— I still often feel sad on holidays.
How Physicians Pivot: Listening to Your Heart in Transition
How did I know it was time to make a change? How did I do it? What was the secret?
Loving Well: The Legacy I Want to Leave
RBG’s words echo mindful coaching: pause, choose your response, and let challenges refine you. A reflection on perspective, practice, and legacy. “Impediments” can become good fortune. RBG’s quotes are a masterclass in mindful leadership: steadiness, persuasion, and one step at a time. Want to be remembered for using your talents well? RBG offers a roadmap: respond with intention, fight for what matters, and help others join you.
Receive nurturing encouragement and simple tools for a life better lived.
Subscribe to get my latest content and special invitations by email