My parents’ map of success was well-meaning but flawed.

I thought: perhaps outcomes don’t bring happiness – perhaps it was the process of what you are doing that is the key.

For the next 2 years I began exploring this belief through introspection, psychotherapy, reading books on success, the mind and emotional intelligence. I decided instead of going for a goal (a thinking-driven outcome), I would begin doing what I loved (an emotionally driven process). I took psychotherapy courses, I joined the Toastmasters Speaking organization and even did some improv at Second City – all because I liked doing those things and not because I was trying to achieve anything. What a concept. I never knew. This resonated with me.

After 2 years or exploring, I thought if I, as a doctor, didn't see this link between outcome goals and higher stress, perhaps I could help many others who don't see this link either. It turns out that link between mind and body is very strong.  Over two-thirds of people who come to the ER have illnesses caused by or precipitated by stress. That includes chronic back pain, migraine headaches, stomach reflux, alcohol abuse and heart attacks. And work stress is the #1 cause of stress in society. That makes sense because work is the thing that most people spend more time doing than anything else in their lives. 

I began giving talks around the city helping associations and businesses reduce work stress. The World health Organization defines health as  "a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity." Similarly, I wanted to help people uncover their optimal work and not merely one where they have less stress. 

So, over the course of 3 and a half years, I studied entrepreneurs who loved what they did at work to uncover their secrets and published 40 of the best stories in my book, Live Your Dreams: Doctor's Orders where I share with others how they can begin doing it too.