The Unique Challenges Doctors Face When Starting a Business
Let’s be real: nobody went through medical school dreaming of spending their life buried in patient charts, fighting with insurance companies, or picking up extra shifts just to make ends meet.
Yet here we are.
If you’re anything like me, at some point, you’ve wondered, “Is this it?”
Maybe you’ve started dreaming about something different—building a business, making money on your terms, or just creating a life where you don’t have to ask for time off.
But then reality sets in, and you realize: Starting a business as a doctor is a whole different ballgame.
You know you’re smart enough, driven enough, but the obstacles feel...unique.
And they are.
Let’s break down the biggest challenges we face as doctors-turned-entrepreneurs and how to push past them.
We Didn’t Learn This Stuff in Med School
Let’s be honest: med school didn’t exactly prep us for running a business. Diagnosing appendicitis? Sure. Building a marketing funnel or understanding how to price a coaching offer? Not so much.
Why It’s a Problem
Without that business foundation, it’s easy to feel like you’re fumbling in the dark. ROI, scalable models, email sequences—it can all sound like a foreign language.
How to Fix It
Good news: You don’t need an MBA. You already know how to learn under pressure (hello, Step exams). Start with the basics, or better yet, find a coach who gets it and can save you time by showing you what works.
You’re Used to Clear Paths, Not Blank Canvases
Medicine is nothing if not structured. Protocols, checklists, clear outcomes—there’s a system for everything. But when it comes to business, the only system is “figure it out as you go.”
Why It’s a Problem
That blank canvas can feel paralyzing. Without a clear plan, you might find yourself spinning your wheels or second-guessing every decision.
How to Fix It
You don’t have to reinvent the wheel. Follow a proven framework or work with someone who can give you a roadmap. Once you have that structure in place, you can tweak and make it your own—but start with a solid foundation.
Time Is Not on Our Side
Between 12-hour shifts, charting, and trying to squeeze in something that resembles a life, the idea of starting a business can feel laughable.
Why It’s a Problem
There’s only so much of you to go around. Trying to juggle your current workload and build a business at the same time? It’s a recipe for burnout—or worse, stalling out before you even get started.
How to Fix It
You’re not a superhero, so stop trying to do it all. Focus on small, consistent action steps.
Use tools like the Pomodoro method to carve out focused work time.
Delegate the stuff that doesn’t require your direct input. (Hire a VA to handle admin tasks or use templates to save time.)
The goal is progress, not perfection.
Burnout Isn’t Just a Buzzword—it’s Real
Listen, I know you’re tired. Not the “need-a-coffee” kind of tired—the bone-deep, burnout kind of tired. And the idea of adding a business to your already overloaded plate might feel impossible.
Why It’s a Problem
Burnout robs you of the energy and creativity you need to build something new. It’s hard to dream big when you’re just trying to survive your next shift.
How to Fix It
Build a business that fills your cup, not drains it.
Start with something you’re passionate about. (Hint: For a lot of us, that’s coaching, consulting, or something that lets us use our expertise in a way that feels good.)
Keep it simple. You don’t have to go all-in on day one. Start small and let your momentum build.
Remember, this business isn’t just about money—it’s about creating the life you want.
Selling Feels Icky—But It Doesn’t Have To
Raise your hand if the idea of “selling” makes you want to run the other way. Yeah, me too. We’re trained to heal, not hustle. The thought of putting a price on your expertise or pitching yourself can feel awkward, self-serving, or downright sleazy.
Here’s what I want you to remember: You’re already selling every day—you just don’t call it that.
How You’re Already Selling
Every time you explain a treatment plan, you’re selling.
Explaining Benefits: “Here’s why this medication is going to help you feel better.”
Overcoming Objections: “I know you don’t like taking pills, but this one is crucial for your recovery.”
Earning Trust: Your ability to communicate with empathy convinces patients to follow your recommendations.
How to Fix It
Reframe selling as helping. You’re not “pushing” anything. You’re offering solutions to people who are looking for exactly what you provide.
Think of it like this: Just as you advocate for your patients, you’re advocating for the people who need your business to solve their problem.
The Peanut Gallery Isn’t Always on Your Side
“Why would you leave medicine?” “Isn’t that risky?” “Are you sure this is a good idea?”
We’ve all heard it. The skepticism comes from colleagues, friends, even family. And honestly? It stings.
Why It’s a Problem
Hearing doubts from the people you respect—or even yourself—can shake your confidence and make you second-guess your path.
Why They Do It
Here’s the thing: most of the time, it comes from a good place. They’ve seen how much you’ve sacrificed to get where you are, and they don’t want to see you struggle or fail. It’s their way of looking out for you, even if it’s unhelpful.
How to Fix It
Acknowledge Their Intentions: “I get it—you just want me to be safe and happy. I appreciate that.”
Share Your Vision: Help them see the bigger picture. “This isn’t about leaving medicine. It’s about creating something that gives me more freedom and flexibility.”
Find Your Tribe: Surround yourself with people who understand what you’re trying to do. A mastermind group or coaching community can provide the encouragement and practical advice you need to stay focused.
Overcoming the Challenges: You’re Made for This
Here’s the truth: You’ve already proven you can do hard things. Starting a business is just another challenge you’re going to crush.
Here’s how to start winning:
Get a Mentor: Stop trying to figure it all out yourself. Work with someone who’s been where you are and can guide you.
Work Smarter, Not Harder: Use tools, strategies, and systems to save time and energy.
Believe in Your Expertise: You’ve got the skills. Now it’s time to package them into something that works for you.
Ready to Take Control?
You didn’t work this hard to stay in the grind forever. Starting a business is your way out—and you don’t have to do it alone.
If you’re ready to build a coaching or consulting business and make 4-5 figures in 90 days or less, let’s do this together. My From Side Hustla to CEO program will help you land your first high-ticket client and finally make your clinical work optional, not obligatory.
Ready? Click here to book your free Triage Call and take the first step toward building the life you deserve.