What's for dessert?

<[stk 3]>Finally, a key consideration is timing. When is it time to end your life as a surgeon? Should it be done abruptly or gradually? Gradually is often a challenge as many partnerships are not prone to include a part-time surgeon who does not participate in the call schedule. Again, no size fits all, but it is far preferable to quit when one is near the peak of his/her skills than when associates notice decline that may or may not be verbalized. <[etk]>

<[stk 3]>Rather than emphasizing the ending, in my opinion it is advantageous, even essential, to highlight a new beginning – one in which the skills and talents gained during a life in surgery can be redirected toward novel pursuits and opportunities to help society in new and exciting ways. To get there requires careful planning. As we all know, dessert can be delicious and enjoyable, but it all depends on what w<[ker -3]>e order. <[etk]>

 Dr. Rikkers is Editor in Chief of Surgery News.