Intentional engagement begins with a conscious decision to pause and give the image full attention.
In the workflow of radiology, this may occur with the mental shift of “Next Case!” — but it’s more than just a transition. It is the internal commitment to focus and be present with the image in front of you.

In a radiologist’s daily routine — where “Next case!” becomes a reflex — engagement can fade into autopilot. To improve it:

• Pause before the case: Take a brief moment (even 2 seconds) to reset focus before opening a study.

• Use the clinical history as an anchor: Let the patient’s story orient your gaze. Ask: “What am I really looking for here?”

• Cultivate a ritual: A small habit, like deepening your breath or adjusting posture, can signal your brain it’s time to focus.

• Practice outside of work:

  • On a hike, ask: “What details stand out in this landscape?”

  • In the street, observe: “What visual patterns or anomalies catch my attention?”

  • In art or nature, consciously name what you’re seeing — light, form, texture.

Intentional engagement is a muscle — trained not just in front of screens, but through everyday awareness.