Do you want to pivot into a nonclinical career path?

In this inspiring continuation of her “Pivot Opportunities for Optometrists” series, Dr. Diane Van Staden explores the exciting new frontiers emerging for eye care professionals who are ready to evolve with the times.

As technology, artificial intelligence, and global healthcare systems transform at lightning speed, Dr Diane challenges optometrists to think beyond traditional practice.

She highlights where the world is heading - and how you can stay ahead by positioning yourself strategically in growing fields that align with your values, skills, and curiosity.

This episode is both a wake-up call and a roadmap for any optometrist feeling the pull toward something more impactful, meaningful, and future-ready.

• Why embracing innovation is essential to avoid being left behind

• How digital health and tele-optometry are reshaping access to care

• The expanding role of AI and data science in diagnostics and patient care

• The power of interdisciplinary and chronic care models in building fulfilling, community-focused careers

• How to make an impact in global health, nonprofits, and advocacy work

• Why corporate and industry leadership need clinicians’ voices now more than ever

• Actionable steps to begin your pivot journey with clarity and confidence

• Staying comfortable with “what’s working” can quietly hold you back from growth.

• Technology isn’t replacing clinicians - it’s creating new doors for them.

• Optometrists have transferable skills that are highly valuable in innovation, leadership, and health systems development.

• The path forward starts with self-awareness, exploration, and action.

• Take a self-assessment to identify your pivot personality type (as discussed in Part 1 - Episode 116) https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/116-beyond-the-clinic-unlocking-new-career/id1713086617?i=1000732614423

• Explore organizations and conferences in digital health, AI, and global eye care.

• Interested in mapping your next steps? 👉 Book a Strategy Call with Dr. Diane https://calendly.com/lbcp/strategy-call

“Optometry is evolving — and so can you. Choose curiosity over fear, and let your skills open new doors for you.” – Dr. Diane Van Staden

• Website: @lifebeyondclinicalpractice

• LinkedIn: Dr. Diane Van Staden

In this episode, Diane pays homage to her roots in optometry - a profession that shaped her journey and now serves as a mirror for many clinicians feeling stuck or unfulfilled. She opens up about her own moment of realization in practice - when the daily routine of eye exams began to feel like a box rather than a calling - and shares how she found purpose beyond the consulting room.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Is this all I’ll be doing for the rest of my career?” - this episode is for you.

• The Feeling of Stagnation: Many optometrists feel boxed in by the repetitive nature of clinical work. Dr Diane shares her experience of monotony and the yearning for growth and deeper impact.

• Breaking Free from Professional Identity: Attachment to clinical titles and roles can limit our sense of possibility. Know that your value extends far beyond your current job description.

• Facing the Fear of Instability: Leaving clinical practice can feel risky, but vulnerability is part of growth. Dr Diane reframes “starting over” as building from where you are.

• Lack of Visibility ≠ Lack of Options: The issue isn’t that there are no opportunities outside optometry - it’s that many don’t know where to look. This podcast exists to change that.

Dr Diane introduces the concept of personality-driven pivot paths, helping you identify roles aligned with who you are:

• The Innovator – drawn to startups, medtech, and product development

• The Educator – thrives in teaching, training, and curriculum design

• The Strategist – excels in policy, research, and consulting

• The Connector – loves relationship-building, business development, and partnerships

• The Builder – flourishes in entrepreneurship, consulting, or practice ownership

“Your optometry career is a foundation, not a box.”

There are fulfilling, purpose-driven career paths waiting beyond the exam room - and they start with understanding who you are and what you’re meant to contribute.

“We should pursue purpose beyond the paycheck.” – Dr Diane Van Staden

What part of your optometry career has felt most life-giving - and what part has felt limiting? What might that reveal about your next chapter?

If you’re ready to explore what’s next, book a strategy call with Dr Diane to get clear on your next right step so you can start mapping out your pivot plan.

👉 https://calendly.com/lbcp/strategy-call

It’s the two-year anniversary of Life Beyond Clinical Practice and in this special episode, Dr. Diane shares key insights from the Pivot Roundtable Summit and two clinicians who have successfully pivoted out of clinical optometry into careers that bring them true fulfillment.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The difference between being happy in your career and being truly fulfilled.

• Why moving past doubt and uncertainty is essential for growth.

• The power of asking: What else is possible?

• How to recognize when it’s time for a purposeful pivot—not just a convenient one.

• Why aligning your career with your purpose and values unlocks your full potential.

Resources & Next Steps:

Join the limited VIP Pivot Crash Course—a 6-week program for just 10 professionals to build your personalized pivot plan. 👉 https://lifebeyondclinicalpractice.com/main-order-page-3948

MORE WAYS TO CONNECT:

Follow our LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/life-beyond-clinical-practice/

Book a Strategy Call with Dr Diane https://calendly.com/lbcp/strategy-call

Join the Movement on Instagram: @lifebeyondclinicalpractice

Rate and Review the show on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-beyond-clinical-practice-healthcare-careers-professional/id1713086617

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In this episode of Life Beyond Clinical Practice, Dr. Diane interviews Sonja Cronjé, an imposter syndrome coach, who shares her journey from optometry to coaching. Sonja discusses the challenges of self-doubt, burnout, and career transitions faced by healthcare professionals. She explains what imposter syndrome is, its signs, and coping strategies to manage it effectively. The conversation emphasizes the importance of addressing imposter syndrome for personal and professional growth, especially for those considering career pivots.

Takeaways

Imposter syndrome affects many high achievers, including well-known figures. Perfectionism can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy. Talking about imposter feelings can help normalize the experience. Challenging negative thoughts is crucial for overcoming self-doubt. Focusing on personal progress rather than comparing to others is key. Keeping a confidence file can help internalize achievements. Feedback and failure are essential for building confidence. Imposter syndrome can hold professionals back from pursuing new opportunities. Managing imposter syndrome is an ongoing journey. Healthcare professionals' well-being directly impacts patient care.

MORE WAYS TO CONNECT:

Sign up for the Pivot Roundtable Summit here https://lifebeyondclinicalpractice.com/event-signup

Follow our LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/life-beyond-clinical-practice/

Book a Strategy Call with Dr Diane https://calendly.com/lbcp/strategy-call

Join the Movement on Instagram: @lifebeyondclinicalpractice

Rate and Review the show on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-beyond-clinical-practice-healthcare-careers-professional/id1713086617

Enjoyed this episode?

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In this conversation, Dr. Diane discusses the significance of understanding one's 'why' in the context of career pivots, particularly for health professionals. She emphasizes the importance of career alignment for personal fulfillment and professional growth, sharing her own experiences and insights. The discussion highlights the need for clarity in career transitions and the impact of pursuing roles that resonate with one's intrinsic values.

You're invited to join the upcoming Pivot Roundtable Summit, aimed at exploring alternative career paths and fostering meaningful conversations about professional fulfillment.

Sign up for the Pivot Roundtable Summit here https://lifebeyondclinicalpractice.com/event-signup

MORE WAYS TO CONNECT:

Follow our LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/life-beyond-clinical-practice/

Book a Strategy Call with Dr Diane https://calendly.com/lbcp/strategy-call

Join the Movement on Instagram: @lifebeyondclinicalpractice

Rate and Review the show on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-beyond-clinical-practice-healthcare-careers-professional/id1713086617

Enjoyed this episode?

We think you'll enjoy this one too https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/102-why-loving-yourself-is-key-to-authentically-thriving/id1713086617?i=1000717138734

Is there a clear PURPOSE embedded within your work?

If you answered NO to either of these questions, then this episode is for you

The pursuit of Purpose is key to personal and professional fulfillment and having a thriving career.

When you centre your life around something meaningful and potentially impactful, there is something deep within you that recognises the privilege and opportunity to contribute to something bigger than yourself, and the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy through our work.

But when you are misaligned in your career (think about a misfit between your natural genius, skills, interests), you are unlikely to be well positioned to fulfill YOUR purpose or even A purpose (because you will mostly likely be unhappy, and unstimulated).

In this episode, you will be challenged to Reflect on Your Purpose (the role you are meant to serve in the world) and what keeps you in your current position (beyond earning your paycheck).

Sign up for the Pivot Roundtable Summit here https://lifebeyondclinicalpractice.com/event-signup

MORE WAYS TO CONNECT:

Follow our LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/104404906/admin/dashboard/

Book a Strategy Call with Dr Diane https://calendly.com/lbcp/strategy-call

Join the Movement on Instagram: @lifebeyondclinicalpractice

Rate and Review the show on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-beyond-clinical-practice-healthcare-careers-professional/id1713086617

Enjoyed this episode?

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Are you a health professional standing at the crossroads of a career pivot, but finding yourself paralyzed by fear of the unknown? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate this season in your own strength.

In this episode of Life Beyond Clinical Practice, I invite you to lean into faith, trust God’s direction, and listen to the quiet nudges of your intuition. Together, we’ll explore how Christian principles can provide an anchor when insecurity and uncertainty feel overwhelming.

• Why fear and uncertainty are normal but don’t have to hold you back.
• How scripture and faith can reframe the unknown into a place of trust and growth.
• Practical ways to quiet your mind and tune into God’s guidance and your own inner wisdom.
• Steps to move forward with courage, even when you don’t have all the answers.

Whether you’re questioning your next move, worried about financial security, or afraid of letting go of your professional identity, this episode will remind you that God sees the bigger picture. Your role is simply to take the next faithful step.

Journalling prompt:

Where is God inviting me to trust Him more fully in my career journey?

✨ Remember: uncertainty is not a dead end—it’s a sacred space where God’s provision meets your obedience.

Join Life Beyond Clinical Practice on the 10th and 11th of October for the inaugural Pivot Roundtable Summit!

This 2-day event will feature speakers who will share their expertise and experience, and will provide the space for you to reflect on what's next for YOU in your career.

Signup for the event is officially opened!

Use this link to secure your seat https://lifebeyondclinicalpractice.com/event-signup

Book within the first 2 weeks and you will be eligible for our early-bird signup bonuses (attendance required to qualify).

MORE WAYS TO CONNECT:

Follow Us on Instagram: @lifebeyondclinicalpractice

Follow LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/life-beyond-clinical-practice/

Rate and Review the show on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-beyond-clinical-practice-healthcare-careers-professional/id1713086617

Book a Strategy Call with Dr Diane https://calendly.com/lbcp/strategy-call

Enjoyed this episode? We think you'll enjoy this one too https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/105-turn-your-passion-into-a-new-career-path/id1713086617?i=1000720561289

Navigating the uncertainty of career change can leave you feeling vulnerable.

Finding COMMUNITY and hearing from others who have walked the journey will help not only encourage you, but build resilience as you navigate the ups and downs of finding YOUR purposeful path that leads to professional fulfillment.

Join Life Beyond Clinical Practice on the 10th and 11th of October for the inaugural Pivot Roundtable Summit. This 2-day event will feature speakers who will share their expertise and experience, and will provide the space for you to reflect on what's next for YOU in your career.

Signup for the event is officially opened!

Use this link to secure your seat https://lifebeyondclinicalpractice.com/event-signup

Book within the first 2 weeks and you will be eligible for our early-bird signup bonuses (attendance required to qualify).

MORE WAYS TO CONNECT:

Follow Us on Instagram: @lifebeyondclinicalpractice

Follow LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/life-beyond-clinical-practice/

Rate and Review the show on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-beyond-clinical-practice-healthcare-careers-professional/id1713086617

Book a Strategy Call with Dr Diane https://calendly.com/lbcp/strategy-call

Enjoyed this episode? We think you'll enjoy this one too https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/107-being-future-ready-why-simply-staying-where-you/id1713086617?i=1000722416407