The Temptation to Retreat: Facing the Edge of Growth

In this solo episode of The Expanded MD, Dr. Sarah Lea dives into a topic she’s been… well… resisting. Not resistance training (though that’s valuable too) - but the quiet, powerful pull to stay safe, avoid discomfort, and hide from growth.

If you’ve ever delayed a project, avoided putting yourself out there, or filled your days with “productive” busyness instead of doing the work that truly matters, you’ve already met resistance. And you’re not alone. Dr. Lea shares how resistance has been showing up in her own life - particularly while building her coaching business alongside her medical career - and the fears that fuel it: judgment, failure, and worthiness.

She also explores:

• How to recognize resistance when it’s “hiding in plain sight”
• Why growth is always paired with discomfort
• The link between resistance, shadow work, and identity shifts
• Practical first steps to move through resistance with self-awareness and support

This episode is vulnerable and real - a reminder that what’s needed isn’t more time, but more courage (and community) to take the next step.

🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

📕 On Our Best Behavior by Elise Loehnen
🎙️ Revive Physician Podcast Episode 25 with Dr. Rabia Khan on cultural resilience and identity in medicine

✨ Connect with Dr. Sarah Lea:
📲 Instagram: @dr.sarahlea
💻 Email: [email protected]
🛜 Website: drsarahlea.com

If this episode resonates, reach out via DM or email - she’d love to hear where resistance is showing up for you and how you’re navigating it.