Aligning Your Compass: The Power of Understanding Your Purpose in Medicine

Being in this profession for a long time, there is one thing I have realized: medicine is a calling. From medical school up until now, one question always pops into my head: What had brought me here?  

You see, the path to becoming a woman physician is far from straightforward. It is filled with sleepless nights, overwhelming patient loads, and a relentless quest for knowledge that knows no bounds. Little did I know that this path, while incredibly rewarding, would be fraught with challenges that would test not only my medical knowledge but the very core of my being. Yet, there is a reason why we choose this path, why we embrace the trials and tribulations of this noble profession. It is a reason that goes far beyond the boundaries of a paycheck or a title on a nameplate.  

This reason is our personal and deep driving force, which is what we call our "purpose" in the medical world. 

Each day in the field brings its own set of challenges, uncertainties, and life-altering decisions. We are entrusted with the well-being of those who place their trust in our knowledge, skills, and, perhaps most importantly, our empathy. These are the times when we are teetering on the edge of hope and despair. Figuring out our purpose is not just about our job; it is a profound journey that we are bound to experience regardless of our profession.  

Defining Purpose 

Defining one's purpose in medicine transcends mundane routines. It is about embracing the profound potential to touch people's lives, especially when they find themselves in their most fragile states. Our purpose extends beyond the clinical diagnoses and treatments; it entails the noble task of alleviating suffering, offering a soothing presence, and kindling the flame of hope. 

In the world of medicine, we are not just practitioners of science; we are the bearers of compassion and empathy. Our purpose is intricately woven into the fabric of human connection, reflecting the higher calling that drew us to this field in the first place.  Each day, we carry the weight of this purpose on our shoulders.  

It is a responsibility, a privilege, and an extraordinary gift. 

This is the essence of purpose in medicine — to be a beacon of hope when all seems lost, to provide solace when pain is overwhelming, and to offer unwavering support when despair threatens to engulf. Our purpose in medicine is a relentless dedication to the well-being of others, a commitment to making a profound impact on their lives, and a reminder that within this profession lies the heart, the soul, and the enduring essence of humanity. 

Before we define our purpose in life and medicine, it is crucial to start by establishing our boundaries. These boundaries serve as the fundamental framework that enables us to understand our purpose in this journey, we call life. If you ever find yourself grappling with the task of defining your boundaries, I recommend checking out my book, Brave Boundaries. I poured my heart and soul into this one to give you all the valuable tips that will help you navigate and balance the demands of your professional and personal life. 

Connection Between Purpose and Priorities 

In the chaotic world of healthcare, where demands are relentless and the hours often seem unending, it is all too easy to lose sight of what truly matters. As a woman physician, my purpose has always been centered around providing the best possible care and support to my patients. It ensures that, in the daily chaos, I prioritize patient well-being, empathy, and the pursuit of knowledge. This alignment has not only made me a better physician but has also brought a sense of fulfillment and authenticity to my career. 

But how do I do it? How do I maintain this delicate balance between purpose and priorities?  

I have discovered that the key lies in understanding that, as a woman physician, I need to be "me" first. It means allowing myself the time for self-reflection, self-care, and yes, indulging in occasional retreats.  

This is what the REVIVE: New Brave Enough Retreat 2024 is all about. 

REVIVE offers a precious opportunity to escape the constant demands of work and immerse yourself in a space where you can reconnect with the essence of your purpose. It is a time for deep self-reflection, a chance to rediscover the passion and empathy that initially led you into this profession. 

During these moments of retreat, you can shed the weight of responsibilities and allow yourself the space to breathe, recenter, and rebuild your inner compass. The sense of clarity and balance you gain from these experiences significantly influence the way you prioritize your life and career, reminding you that to be the best physician, you must first care for yourself. In this way, the connection between understanding your purpose and aligning your priorities is not a one-time achievement but a continuous journey of self-discovery and renewal. 

5-Step Exercise in Understanding Your Purpose 

Understanding your purpose is a deeply personal and introspective journey. Here's a five-step exercise to help you gain clarity: 

1. Self-Reflection 

Setting aside moments for self-reflection has been crucial in my journey to understand my purpose in the medical field. This process takes me back to the very beginning, to the moments that first kindled my passion for medicine.  

To understand your purpose, begin by setting aside some quiet, uninterrupted time for self-reflection. Then ask yourself what initially drew you to this profession. Consider all the pivotal moments in your life, the experiences that have left a lasting impact on you, and the activities that bring you the most joy and fulfillment. Write down your thoughts and feelings during this reflection.  

Self-awareness is the first step in understanding your purpose. The key is to be patient with this process. Self-awareness does not happen overnight, and the journey to understanding one's purpose is a gradual one. So, take your time during these reflective moments. 

No time for self-reflection? My Time Management Course is designed to assist you in creating dedicated, uninterrupted moments for valuable introspection like this. 

2. Identify Core Values 

It is really important to take a moment to think about what truly matters to us, what lights that fire in our hearts, and what keeps us going in the world of medicine. These are our core values, the guiding principles that shape our lives and our work. 

During these moments ask yourself: 

What principles and beliefs are most important to me?  

What are the non-negotiables? 

What are the values that I hold close to my heart, and the ones that I want to carry with me through this incredible journey in medicine? 

Take your time with these questions; there are no right or wrong answers. It is about understanding what makes your heart beat a little faster and what makes your work as a woman physician truly fulfilling. For instance, values such as compassion, empathy, integrity, or innovation can often provide clues about your purpose.  

Make a list of your core values and consider how they relate to your life and the choices you have made. Think about how these values intersect with your medical career and influence the way you approach patient care. 

In this step, it is crucial that we remain connected with ourselves. I understand that as a woman physician or a working mom, the stress can feel overwhelming at times. If you ever need a breather, my FREE destress toolkit can help. This toolkit offers the clarity and guidance needed to help you regain your center as you go into the process of identifying your core values. 

3. Define Your Passions 

Exploring your passion is a powerful tool for understanding your purpose within the field of medicine. It is all about those activities or subjects that spark a fire within you, the ones that make you so engrossed that you completely lose track of time. When we are passionate about something, there is a magnetic force that pulls us in and keeps us engaged. Understanding these passions and how they align with your career helps point you in the right direction. 

4. Connect with Others and Seek External Insights 

Sometimes, when we're too close to ourselves, we might not see our strengths and the impact we've had on others as clearly as those on the outside do. That's where your friends, family, mentors, and colleagues come in. 

Ask them for their perspectives. What do they see as your strengths and passions? How have they witnessed you making a difference in the world, especially in the realm of medicine? Their observations can often reveal aspects of yourself that you might not have fully recognized. 

Furthermore, do not underestimate the power of connecting with other women physicians in this field. Feel free to connect and engage with them. They may offer perspectives and advice that can realign your sense of purpose in this profession. I have personally experienced the power of these connections, and I can vouch for the lasting impact they have. If you are seeking a community where you can connect and engage with amazing and inspiring women in the world of medicine, join us at The Table.   

5. Take Action 

Once you have gathered those valuable insights into your purpose, it is time to put them into action. Take a moment to consider every decision and action you are about to take and ask yourself if it resonates with your values, passions, and the sense of fulfillment you seek. With this newfound perspective, you can evaluate your choices through a different lens, one that is aligned with your purpose. This kind of self-awareness will guide you in ensuring that your actions and decisions are in harmony with your intrinsic motivations and values. 

But it is important to understand that the path to understanding your purpose is not a one-time deal; it is an ongoing journey. It may evolve and change over time as you gain new experiences and insights. So, be patient with yourself and embrace the journey. In this process, you are not just finding your purpose; you are living it, day by day, choice by choice, and experience by experience. 

Find Your Purpose with REVIVE 

In the demanding field of medicine, it is completely natural to encounter moments of confusion, uncertainty, and even doubt. This profession is a complex and chaotic one, and it is not uncommon to question your path. Even the most dedicated physicians I know and like myself, find ourselves questioning our place in it and asking: 

"What am I even doing in medicine?"  

If this is something that rings a bell with you, let REVIVE find, understand, and realign your purpose in medicine. It is designed to help you find your footing when the medical landscape seems overwhelming.  

This retreat is not just about finding your purpose; it is about embracing the journey, doubts, and all. It is an opportunity to reconnect with your inner motivations and passions, to realign your values with your daily choices, and to make sense of the complexities of medicine. It is a reminder that even in moments of confusion, your purpose as a woman physician is a powerful force that can guide you through the most challenging times in this remarkable profession. 

So, mark your calendars from January 18th to 21st, 2024, and let the Garza Blanca Resort and Spa in beautiful Cancun, Mexico be the place where you can recharge, rejuvenate, and rekindle your sense of purpose. 

Your journey to rediscovering your calling begins here.