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In a profession that demands precision, empathy, and constant growth, optometrists often find themselves navigating more than just patient care—they are balancing careers, personal lives, and evolving identities. In this episode of the OD’ing on Movies podcast, Dr. Jacobi Cleaver and Dr. Jacob Wilson explore these themes through the lens of The Roses, a film that unexpectedly mirrors the real-life pressures faced by eye care professionals today.
Joining the conversation is Dr. Gloria Chu, a highly respected optometrist and leader in specialty contact lenses. She practices at the USC Roski Eye Institute in Los Angeles and brings nearly two decades of experience in managing complex corneal conditions, dry eye disease, and scleral lens fittings. Known for her clinical expertise, research involvement, and passion for education, Dr. Chu offers a unique perspective that bridges high-level clinical care with practical, everyday challenges in optometry.
Understanding Corneal Neuropathic Pain
Before diving into the film, Dr. Chu shares a compelling clinical case centered on corneal neuropathic pain—an often underdiagnosed and misunderstood condition. These patients may present with severe discomfort despite having clear eyes, no staining, and minimal clinical signs.
This disconnect between symptoms and clinical findings can be frustrating for both the patient and the provider. Dr. Chu emphasizes the importance of recognizing these cases and exploring multidisciplinary care, including collaboration with ophthalmology, pain specialists, and advanced diagnostics like confocal microscopy.
Scleral lenses can play a role in managing symptoms, but outcomes vary. The key takeaway: not every painful eye looks diseased, and clinicians must trust both the science and the patient experience.
The Movie Parallel: Success, Failure, and Identity
The Roses follows a couple whose relationship deteriorates as their careers take drastically different paths. One partner experiences rapid success, while the other struggles with failure—creating tension that ultimately leads to resentment and emotional disconnect.
Dr. Chu highlights a powerful theme: comparison. Watching someone close to you succeed can unintentionally magnify feelings of inadequacy.
For optometrists, this is highly relatable. Whether it’s colleagues growing practices, expanding into specialty care, or building a strong personal brand, it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparison. The danger lies in allowing that comparison to overshadow personal progress and purpose.
Burnout in Optometry: A Real and Growing Concern
The discussion naturally shifts toward burnout—a topic that resonates deeply within the profession. The film illustrates how overcommitment, imbalance, and lack of communication can slowly erode both personal and professional fulfillment.
Dr. Cleaver emphasizes that “work-life balance” is not a one-size-fits-all concept. Instead, optometrists must define what balance looks like for them individually.
Dr. Chu adds that variety in one’s career can help prevent monotony and burnout. Incorporating research, teaching, organizational involvement, or leadership roles can create a more dynamic and fulfilling professional life.
Practical Strategies to Prevent Burnout
The conversation offers actionable insights for optometrists at all stages:
- Diversify your role: Combine clinical care with teaching, research, or leadership opportunities.
- Set boundaries: Not every opportunity requires a “yes.” Thoughtful decision-making protects time and energy.
- Create separation: When possible, leave work at work and be fully present at home.
- Prioritize rest: Sleep is foundational for performance, clarity, and patient care.
- Find joy outside of optometry: Whether it’s movies, travel, or hobbies, having an outlet is essential.
Dr. Chu also highlights a simple but effective tactic—writing tasks down and crossing them off. This tangible sense of progress can improve productivity and reduce mental clutter.
Conclusion
While The Roses may be a fictional story, its themes are very real for eye care professionals. Burnout, comparison, and identity challenges are part of the journey—but they don’t have to define it.
For optometrists, the goal is not perfection but sustainability. By building a career that aligns with personal values, setting boundaries, and embracing growth beyond the exam lane, long-term fulfillment becomes achievable.
And sometimes, as this episode reminds us, the best reset might be as simple as stepping away, watching a movie, and gaining a fresh perspective.
