“WHAT NEXT” in 2024

©Dr. Aparna Govil Bhasker

Last year marked the grand celebration of our 25th batch reunion. It was a wonderful event that brought us all together once again. As we embraced each other after decades, the camaraderie was palpable. Late-night heart-to-heart conversations made us feel as if the years had never passed. Our laughter echoed, filled with shared moments, and in those moments, it felt like time had forgotten to leave its mark.

All of us had done fairly well in life. 25 years ago, we had cracked the rigorous medical entrance examination, navigated the long years of medical education, pursued post-graduation in our chosen fields, started families, established clinics and hospitals, authored papers, participated in conferences, and achieved professional and financial success. Our journey had brought us all to a point in life where we now enjoyed a respectable status in society. However, amidst the laughter and shared memories, a lingering question echoed in the minds of many – “What next?”

What next? Is a question that I have also been thinking about for quite some time now. As doctors, we are hardwired to continually seek purpose and engagement. Our lives are a relentless pursuit of knowledge and service – whether we are within the walls of a hospital or in the midst of conferences and webinars (thankfully reduced post-COVID). The paradox of our profession lies in its insatiable demands. We are accustomed to perpetual motion – a constant cycle of learning, practicing, and contributing and going back to learning. As the years pass by, the landscape of possibilities and opportunities continues to increase multi fold. Balancing the fear of spreading oneself too thin with the fear of missing out can be daunting. The challenge lies in navigating these choices and making decisions that resonate with our true priorities.

As we stand at this juncture, I guess it’s essential to acknowledge that “what next” is a very pertinent question. It is not a sign of stagnation but an invitation for exploration. It’s an opportunity to rediscover ourselves beyond the realms of clinical practice and professional achievements. There are times when we must intentionally step out of the relentless rat race, take a moment to retreat, and clear the clutter from our lives……. to make space for the unknown. It’s in the tranquillity of these moments that we can truly reflect on the genuine purpose for the next part of our lives.

The next chapter may or may not be defined by traditional markers of success; instead, it could be a journey inward, a pursuit of personal fulfilment. It could also be a commitment to passions beyond the scope of medicine.

I acknowledge that the “what next” might not unfold overnight, but I am guessing that the process of self-discovery may be a journey well worth taking.

So, here’s to the next chapter – a new year with a blank canvas ready for the reflections, aspirations, and the colours of our passions. As we set sail through 2024, let’s take a moment to pause and carve out space for new pursuits. Cheers to embracing the unknown and making the most of the vibrant palette that the new year offers!

#happynewyear2024