“Between Healing and Writing: An Inspiring Conversation with Dr. Kunjam Pooja”

Medicine and literature may seem like two different worlds, but for some, they flow together seamlessly. Dr. Kunjam Pooja is one such inspiring personality who balances the precision of being a doctor with the creativity of being an author. In this interview, we explore how these two callings complement each other, her journey so far, and the wisdom she has gained along the way.

1. Dr. Pooja, you are both a doctor and an author. How do you see these two roles connecting with each other?
   Answer:

Combining the roles of a doctor and an author feels like navigating two complementary journeys that eventually converge at the same goal—healing and transformation. In my role as a physician, I concentrate on mending the body and fostering well-being. As an author, my writings strive to heal the mind, resonate with the heart, and awaken inner resilience. Both professions enable me to contribute to society—one through the lens of science, the other through the art of storytelling and insight.

I perceive them as intricately linked: medicine alleviates physical issues, while words possess the ability to reach the spirit. Writing allows me to broaden my impact beyond the ‌clinic, connecting with individuals worldwide who might never encounter me in person but can still find motivation to transform their lives. For me, the identities of doctor and author are not distinct but extensions of a singular purpose—to inspire, uplift, and support individuals in leading more fulfilling, healthier, and purposeful lives.

2. Does your medical profession influence your writing, or does writing help you in your medical practice?
   Answer: 

The interplay between my career in medicine and my passion for writing is truly harmonious. My medical experience has afforded me a profound understanding of the human condition—encompassing suffering, recovery, perseverance, and hope. These genuine interactions enhance the depth and authenticity of my writing, allowing me to explore human emotions and stories with greater empathy and insight.

Conversely, writing serves as a beneficial complement to my role as a physician. It provides a means for clarity, nurtures patience, and creates an opportunity to reflect on the myriad experiences I encounter in my practice. Engaging in writing encourages me to listen more attentively, communicate with compassion, and appreciate individuals not just as patients, but as distinct people with their own narratives.

In this way, medicine informs and inspires my writing, while writing enriches my medical practice. Together, they merge into a unified journey of purpose.

3. Balancing two demanding passions is not easy. How do you manage your time between being a doctor and being an author?
   Answer:

Navigating the dual roles of a physician and an author invites a unique synergy between two distinct realms that each call for my full attention. Medicine embodies discipline, precision, and a commitment to long hours of service, while writing nurtures the qualities of reflection, creativity, and a certain tranquility. At first glance, these vocations may appear to draw me in opposing directions; however, they complement each other remarkably well.

In managing my time, I focus less on rigid scheduling and more on aligning my efforts with my overarching purpose. I have discovered that my most productive writing periods—whether in the early hours of the morning or late at night—occur when the world is still, allowing ideas to flow more freely. The structured nature of my medical practice grounds me, enhances my discipline, and deepens my connection to the human experience, all of which fuel my writing endeavors.

I conceptualize this integration not as a balance but as a seamless blending of passions. My medical background enriches my storytelling with authentic experiences, empathy, and a keen understanding of human emotions, while my writing enhances my communication with patients, fostering a more compassionate, human-centered approach. Each vocation informs and inspires the other, resulting in a harmonious coexistence rather than a conflict of priorities.

Of course, this way of living requires thoughtful prioritization. I have cultivated the ability to decline distractions and commit to what holds genuine significance for me. Writing serves as a source of rejuvenation, while my medical practice represents my dedication to serving others. Together, these pursuits empower me to lead a life imbued with meaning and contribution.

4. What message would you like to share with young minds who want to pursue multiple passions like you?
   Answer:

It is important to recognize that you don’t have to confine yourself to a single dream or passion. Each individual possesses a breadth of potential that allows for the pursuit of multiple interests. Engaging in various callings can enhance your life rather than detract from it. Each passion you explore can complement the others; for example, my experience in medicine informs my writing, while my writing practice fosters greater empathy in my medical work. The key lies not in attempting to do everything simultaneously, but in dedicating yourself to each endeavor with intention, discipline, and authenticity. Listening to your inner voice, nurturing your curiosity, and accepting your multifaceted nature can be incredibly rewarding. The world benefits from your complete self, rather than a limited version of it.