With Mayo Clinic oncologist Edward T. Creagan, M.D.

I met a colleague who was in midcareer and on top of his game. A respected consultant; a beloved advisor; and acknowledged author. He easily commanded a six-figure income.

But, he was professionally miserable despite the trappings of "success" and as a consequence, developed multiple stress-related illnesses: high blood pressure, weight gain, and an obscure skin disorder undoubtedly due to tension.

He decided, with the support of his family, to embark upon a midcareer transition to go into a completely different discipline. What were the consequences of this decision?

• Going from a six-figure income to far less compensation.
• His "office" was now a cubicle under a stairwell rather than the posh office of his former profession.
• He now had to report to colleagues less than half his age who were clueless about his former stature.
• His decision to shift into another career was completely voluntary and that in itself was highly stressful.

I asked him how he was dealing with these transitions and he said, "For the next three years, I will just Zen-it." So, I asked him what he meant by that term and here is what I heard.

He explained that he was in a meditative state of surrender. By that he meant relinquishing control over many of the events in his life. If he did not accept and embrace some of these hardships, he would never survive this change. He made it clear that he was not in a state of resignation which by definition is an acceptance of despair or admitting defeat. So, what is the take home message for us?

For me, I heard the following:

• When we are faced with situations over which we have no control, the concept of embracing the moment, staying with the feeling, and not complaining about our fate is profoundly useful.
• If we struggle and demand firm answers and a clear vision of the future, this is in my humble view a proven recipe for a meltdown.
• The notion of introspection, prayer, and meditation for our colleague and for many of us is powerfully resourceful.

So, let me hear your perceptions of this colleague who provided for me a very unique dimension on dealing with change.

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