Professional Disappointment as a Cause of Burnout

Burnout is common among physicians. Chronic sources of burnout have been previously examined, but little is known about the impact of acute stressors on physician burnout. Otolaryngology residents applying for competitive fellowships provide a good example for how professional disappointment may cause burnout. As otolaryngology comprises highly successful, highly competitive individuals, a long history of success may leave otolaryngologists ill-equipped to cope with such failures. Otolaryngologists should be aware of such pitfalls, preparing appropriate coping mechanisms in cases of professional disappointment.