"It is important to invest in myself, especially with a high-stress, high-pressure job as a physician. For the last three years, I have invested in a personal coach who helps me uncover my desires and assists me in making a plan to achieve those goals. Also, I am adamant about my fitness and health. I take good care of my body because it's the only one I have. I know that I need to be a strong example to my patients as a resident as well."

Personal development is a valuable habit and can include things like exercise, meditating, taking personal development courses/workshops, reading, mentoring others, being creative through art, or spending time traveling and exploring. However you choose to invest in your personal development, be sure to show the interviewers that you understand the importance of investing in yourself.

With a job as intense as a medical resident, it is vital to make time to relax and be health conscious. The time spent exercising, preparing healthy foods, and resting are an investment in the future. Having a close network of family and friends to help unwind and also to discuss various issues with is also important.

"I would continue reading and learning throughout training. In addition, I would try to attend a national conference to network with other Family Medicine physicians."

"The best way to invest in myself and my education is by attending lecture regularly, asking questions, and reading a lot of cases. I believe that attending daily lecture forms the foundation of clinical knowledge. Asking questions ensures comprehension of difficult subject matter. Finally, reading a high volume of cases increases my chances of seeing rare pathology while becoming more comfortable with common conditions."

"I would love to continue to pursue research in areas that interest me to further develop my research career and contribute to the scientific field. I also hope to attend conferences where I can learn about innovations in patient care, meet colleagues in my field and also share my own research and learning."

"In my prior career I learned how important it was to actively seek out feedback and not simply wait for it to be given to you. As a resident, I will continue that approach in order to improve on a shift-to-shift and day-to-day basis. I'm also looking forward o investing my free time both in areas of research I am truly passionate about and also in myself, making sure to take care of my physical and mental wellness during what I know will be extremely stressful times."