The world looks very different today than it did two months ago. It is safe to say that we will never return to many habits of the past. Our social interactions will be different for the foreseeable future. Our economy has changed, and for many of us, the work that we use to define ourselves looks very different in practice.

The silver lining in this economic and social disruption is that we have the time and opportunity to ask some very intimate and probing questions of ourselves. In all the upheaval, we can reinvent and redefine ourselves. In my practice of medicine, I have come to believe that our biography becomes our biology. Indeed, own stories and life experiences have such a profound impact on us that the science of our bodies are forever changed. The sum of our experiences, good and bad, our changing purpose and meaning in life, and the pursuits we follow can all influence our health as much as the medication we may take. When patients understand the effects of their life on their health, it is only then that lifestyle modifications can begin to assist in healing.

Several years ago, I had my own epiphany of self. I was unhealthy in body and spirit. I didn’t feel well and was burnt out in the traditional practice of medicine. I ultimately made radical decisions to change my lifestyle and transition my career to functional medicine. I left behind a secure practice in conventional medicine to attend culinary school, pursue training in functional medicine and start an independent medical practice that treats people holistically. This helped heal me physically and emotionally. Part of my evolution was to recognize the role and purpose that I have in this world. I have a unique and particular impact to my health, family, community, work and environment. You, too, have a unique and particular role to play in this world. Identifying my purpose was transformative in my health and my career and I know it can be transformative in others as well.

Making this drastic change in life did not come easy. We humans are spiritual, philosophical and social beings. We are not meant to figure out life on our own nor to go it alone. It is helpful to have wise counsel to help us determine our path. I found wise counsel to determine my purpose by working with two amazing coaches. Jason Dorsey, a Presbyterian pastor, has written a book entitled “The Name” which leads individuals through a process of mapping their core identity and setting goals for each sphere of their life including personal, family, work, community and place. Marcia Newman is a gifted life coach that listens and is an excellent teacher and sounding board as one works out their purpose and goals in concrete details. They can help you too.

In this unique pandemic time, I invite you to ask the hard questions. What is your purpose? Why are you here? Do you want to continue life as it is? How can you transition to a different lifestyle or career to better embrace your purpose?

Note that this is not a sponsored post, nor do I receive anything from this endorsement. There are many talented coaches that can speak into your biggest life decisions, and I suggest everyone explore a coach that works for them. However, I do recommend Jason Dorsey and/or Marcia Newman because they are talented, good and decent people that want you to live into your purpose to find joy, contentment and fulfillment. I, too, want this for my patients because it is good for your soul and ultimately, your health.

Jason Dorsey’s Book “The Name”

Jason Dorsey’s Counseling Service

Marcia Newman and Associates Life Coaching Services

Curious how your biography is affecting your biology? Schedule an appointment with Relish Health to address your health.

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