In this episode, Jesse Tyma, DVM, DACVS, joined us to discuss her perspectives on perfectionism in equine practice. Tyma wrote a paper on this topic that she presented at the 2024 AAEP Convention, which explored the importance of recognizing both the positive and negative aspects of perfectionism. To highlight the power of positive perfectionism, she explained the difference between good (adaptive) and bad (maladaptive) perfectionism.
Tyma shared her personal struggle with perfectionist tendencies as a surgeon and an athlete. She then explained the five perfectionist styles outlined in the 2023 book The Perfectionist’s Guide to Losing Control by Katherine Morgan Schafler. She recommended reading this book to better understand perfectionism and gain perspective on how it can be a positive factor in success.
In closing, Tyma emphasized the importance of self-awareness and continual growth in leadership. She advised listeners to have self-compassion and learn to use their perfectionism as a superpower.
About Dr. Jesse Tyma
Jesse Tyma, DVM, DACVS, is an equine surgeon at Rhinebeck Equine in the Hudson Valley of New York. Her clinical interests include gastrointestinal and soft tissue surgery, wound management, sports medicine, and back disorders.
Tyma grew up in New Hope, Pennsylvania, and attended Amherst College for her undergraduate education followed by Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. She completed a rotating internship at Rhinebeck Equine followed by a large animal surgical residency at the University of Georgia, and she became a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons in 2019. She joined Rhinebeck Equine in 2023. Tyma is the chair of the AAEP Early Career Committee and is both a Decade One and Starting Gate group facilitator. She is passionate about providing dedicated mentorship for intern veterinarians and building a strong sense of community and collaboration through her practice. Tyma is an avid CrossFitter, hiker, skier, and traveler. She thoroughly enjoys doting on her cats and Miniature Horses.
Related Reading
- Capitalizing on Character Strengths in Veterinary Medicine
- The Business of Practice: Building Confidence in Entry-Level Veterinarians
- Business Briefs: How Perfectionism Saps Our Strength
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