When life feels meaningless

When life feels meaningless

“Life is meaningless”

Maybe this is something you have said to yourself or there is someone close to you or who you have taken care of who  have utter these words.

There are many ways to approach this.

:bulb:The thing that pops up in my head is, :woman-shrugging::skin-tone-4:what meaning is being referred  to? :question:How can I clarify what exactly “meaning” may mean.

When I do this I find it sets up the foundation for clearer communication and less judgement.  Meaningless is like we lost our “so what?” and don’t know where to look to gain that value back.

As humans we are unlikely to be truly content with any purpose of our existence. It has to be something that is aligned with your meaning, your deeper held values. Something that you believe in.

So believing in something is an innate core part of us that has powerful motivation to bring about a more fulfilling life. Life becomes more fun, relationships are improved, and now when you meet friends for on zoom  or in person you are able to enjoy the food and company more.

Honouring and Serving,
Simran K. Rattan MD

7 Points to remember when thinking about the meaning to life

7 Points to remember when thinking about the meaning to life

7 Points to remember when thinking about the meaning to life.

There are certain aspects to remember as we go along this journey, that will move us to fulfilling our spiritual needs.

1️⃣ Everyone is unique.
We all have unique talents and skills and can contribute to the world in ways others are unable to.
This is the point of difference and something to continuously remind ourselves.
There are so many painful things happening in the world that require someone who’s passionate about them to support or contribute in any way.

2️⃣ Be prepared to leave our comfort zones. Our spirit calls us to be ourselves and share our uniqueness and passion.
Following our heart requires the risk of being vulnerable and the acceptance that there will be tough times.

3️⃣ When tough times do arise, because life is full of the unexpected, take the time to pause and rebalance. No matter how long it is, always hold onto your passion.

4️⃣ Form relationships and connections who share your same passion.
Ensure you feel a sense of belonging in these relationships as this will help foster and strengthen your passion.
Together, there is mutual respect and love to cultivate it. We also learn from those emerged in the craft and vice versa.

5️⃣ Conserve your energy, dreams and ideas. Not everyone will be supportive of what you do.
Today the world is very competitive and to avoid having your dreams shattered, it’s good to do a lot of preparation work behind the scenes.

6️⃣ Have 1 book to write all your goals, thoughts and ideas down to cultivate your path as it broadens.

7️⃣ Schedule regular times, either weekly, fortnightly or monthly to reflect on areas of improvement and how to continue to cultivate your passion.

Honouring and Serving,
Simran K. Rattan MD

What questions can we ask as health-workers if a spiritual healthcare provider or chaplain is not available?

What questions can we ask as health-workers if a spiritual healthcare provider or chaplain is not available?

Don’t know what questions to start with when exploring spirituality with your health partners (patients)?

Spiritual health care providers are trained to counsel many in times of need.

Some questions spiritual advisors may use to engage with patients, families and staff include the following:

✅ What brings meaning into your life?
✅ What is important in your life?
✅Where are your significant relationships?
✅What values are most important to you?
✅What gives you strength in challenging times?
✅ What is disrupting access to resources that uplift you right now?

If a spiritual health care provider is not available, these questions offer guidance for healthcare workers, to engage and support patients and family.

These questions encompass all people no matter what their beliefs. These help each person to reflect and thus begin the process of exploring themselves.

Evidence supports that by nourishing the needs of the spirit, we help those who feel despondent with their health, cope better, gain strength and be more resilient in their lives.

Honouring and Serving,
Simran K. Rattan MD