As healthcare professionals we play a vital role in caring for others, but amidst the demands and challenges of our work, it is essential to find personal fulfillment and meaning in our own lives. In part 5 of our PERMA model series, we will be looking at the fourth element: Meaning.
Meaning refers to a deep sense of purpose and significance in one’s life. It involves understanding the impact of one’s actions and finding value in the work and relationships. Meaning can be found in various aspects, including professional accomplishments, personal growth, and contribution to the wellbeing of others. Leading a meaningful life is very subjective, so how can you find and incorporate meaning into your life?
How to Find Your Meaning
Reflect on Your Values: Take time to reflect on your core values and how they align with your work. Identify the values that you want to live by and consider how you can infuse them into your daily activities. Align your actions with your values.
Connect with the Larger Purpose: Explore the broader impact of your work on patients, families, and the community. Attend and notice the positive difference you make in their lives. Stop and notice the compliments and praise, as we so easily discount them.
Seek Professional Growth: Engage in continuous learning and professional development opportunities. This may include attending conferences, workshops, or pursuing advanced certifications. It may also include engaging with a psychologist to explore a deeper understanding of yourself.
Embrace Challenging Situations: Decide to view challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning. Choose to embrace experiences with a growth mindset, take the lessons and move on.
Engage in Acts of Service: Find ways to contribute to your community. Support a cause you believe in, or lend a helping hand to those in need, no matter how small. It could be as simple as asking a loved one ‘what’s one thing I can do today to make things easier for you?’
Embrace Everyday Moments: Consciously pay attention to opportunities of meaning in the simplest of moments. Engage fully in daily activities, savouring the small joys, and attending to the beauty around you. Make a point in discovering meaning in the ordinary once a day!
Benefits of Meaning
Increased Job Satisfaction: Re-discovering meaning in your work can enhance job satisfaction and reduces feelings of burnout. When we understand the significance of our role and its impact on others, it brings a sense of fulfillment and purpose to our professional life.
Improved Resilience: Finding meaning allows us to navigate challenging situations with greater resilience. The understanding that our work as health professional has purpose and value can empower us to overcome obstacles and bounce back from setbacks.
Enhanced Wellbeing: Meaningful work contributes to overall wellbeing and mental health. It provides a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction, which can lead to lower levels of stress and a greater sense of life satisfaction.
Deeper Connection with Patients: Embracing meaning fosters deeper connections with patients. By recognising the significance of your role in their lives, you can provide more compassionate, patient-cantered care, which can lead to improved patient outcomes and experiences.
Personal Growth: Seeking meaning encourages personal growth and self-reflection. It pushes us to continuously strive for improvement, expand our knowledge, and develop new skills, fostering a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment.
Remember, finding meaning in life is a lifelong journey. It’s important to be patient and open to exploration and self-discovery. Embrace the process and allow yourself to evolve and grow along the way.
Stay tuned for the final instalment of the PERMA model series as we dive into the last element, Accomplishments.
