Being a vet is more than just a job—it’s a way of life. But what happens when that life starts to feel like it’s no longer your own? If your days are an endless cycle of work, exhaustion, and stress, it’s time to take back control. Here’s how: 

Put Your Life First—Not Your Work 

It’s easy to let work dictate your schedule, squeezing personal time into whatever’s left. Instead, flip the script. 

• Schedule vacations, hobbies, and social events before filling in work commitments. 

• Treat these personal events as non-negotiable—just like a work meeting. 

• Review your calendar every 90 days to ensure your personal priorities stay on track. 

When you protect your personal time, work fits around your life, not the other way around. 

Set Boundaries and Stick to Them 

Veterinary medicine attracts passionate, driven people who put others first. But without boundaries, this dedication can lead to burnout. 

• Communicate your limits to your team and clients. Your time off should be respected—just as you respect theirs. 

• Reduce unnecessary demands. Not every client or case needs your full emotional energy. Prioritize those that align with your values and capabilities. 

• Outsource where you can. Consider services like Guardian Vets for after-hours triage to lighten your load. 

Boundaries don’t mean you care less; they ensure you can care better—for both your patients and yourself. 

Reconnect with Your Purpose 

Remember why you became a vet in the first place. It wasn’t to drown in paperwork or feel like you’re constantly falling behind. 

• Identify one word that represents your theme for the year—whether it’s "balance," "growth," or "joy." 

• Ask yourself: What’s missing in my life? Once you recognize the gaps, take steps to fill them 

• Surround yourself with the right people—colleagues, mentors, and friends who support and uplift you 

By realigning your work with your passion, you’ll feel more fulfilled and less overwhelmed. 

The Bottom Line 

You don’t have to accept exhaustion as part of the job. Take back control by prioritizing your life, setting firm boundaries, and reconnecting with what truly matters. You became a vet because you love animals—but you deserve to love your life, too. 

What’s one small step you can take today to reclaim your time? 

This blog has been written in relation to The Lost Vet book. Read the full book for more amazing tips. 

Read the Full Book 

Perfect Control with The Lost Vet  

At The Lost Vet, we help you find your passion and purpose again.  

You’ll have:  

• The job you always dreamed of  

• More time for you and your friends and family, hobbies and interests  

• Increased profit and growth with less stress  

• An empowered team  

• Clients that truly value the service and advice you provide  

Don’t take our word for it, contact us today to find your passion and purpose again.