Questions #2 (How have you sought additional skills beyond your specialty? What was the result?) and #3 (Was there a time you stayed in a secure job rather than strike out into a new position that might’ve gained you more in the long run? What was the basis of your decision?):

I had a career in the military as a family medicine physician but, towards the end of my career as I was nearing retirement, I began to doubt the good I was doing. I began to suspect that many of the treatment guidelines I was following had been developed to push medications that had the chance to do as much bad as good. So, I spent a year studying acupuncture with the intent of opening an acupuncture clinic after military retirement.

I had the opportunity to take over the acupuncture practice of one of the teachers who was moving. When I examined the practice though I found that she made much of her income as a neurology consultant and Chief of Staff of the local hospital, jobs I wouldn't have. In the end, I just transitioned from active military to being a civilian in a military clinic.

I still have doubts about many of the medications I prescribe, but I share those doubts honestly with patients and assist them in making good decisions about their treatment. I forgot most of the acupuncture, but I'm nearing a second retirement so maybe I should dust off those skills and take another look at that option.