Lecture Notes by Drude Aburdan

Introduction

• Speaker: Drude Aburdan
• Background: Fresh graduate from the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Istanbul Medipol University
• Topic: Personal story of overcoming failure and achieving success in medical school

Early Life and High School

• Always sought to excel in everything
• Taught self various skills:
  • Painting
  • Guitar
  • Photography
• Excelled academically (except Arabic)
• Popular for achievements, which boosted confidence

Transition to University

• Accepted into medical school (dream major)
• Experienced failure for the first time:
  • Failed first exam (basic knowledge)
  • Resulted in loss of confidence and self-doubt
  • Led to severe depression

Understanding Failure

• Initially viewed failure negatively
• Later recognized its importance for growth
• Motivation to change and improve

Strategies for Success

1. New Study Techniques

   • Use colorful sticky notes for high-yield information
   • Draw anatomical structures for better memory
   • Teach peers to reinforce understanding
   • Implement active recall technique

2. Healthy Lifestyle Changes

   • Improved diet (cooking, meal prep)
   • Started practicing yoga for stress management

3. Supportive Social Circle

   • Surround with motivational friends
   • Distance from negative influences

4. Positive Self-Talk

   • Monitor daily thoughts and affirmations

The Habit Loop Method

• Based on Charles Duhigg’s "The Power of Habit"
• Components of the habit loop:
  1. Cue: Trigger for habit (e.g., desk at home)
  2. Routine: Behavior to reinforce (e.g., studying)
  3. Reward: Positive reinforcement (e.g., yoga, favorite shows)
• Create a behavioral pattern to establish and reinforce new habits

Overcoming Bad Habits

• Examples: Procrastination, smoking, etc.
• Suggestion: Set alarms and triggers to combat procrastination

Encouragement for the Audience

• Identify personal goals and create a habit loop
• Make habits easier with cues and rewards

Current Status and Future Goals

• Now a physician, advanced life support provider, and educator
• Upcoming launch of a medical uniform brand
• Aspiration to specialize in surgery in the US

Conclusion

• Key takeaway:
  • "Motivation gets you started, but habits keep you going."
• Belief in potential for change is crucial for overcoming obstacles
• Thank you for listening!