Level 6: Life Assessment

 

Few people take the time to consciously define their life’s meaning and goals. Patients often feel they simply don’t have the time or it is not that important. These issues become very significant, however, when dealing with cancer.

In Level 6 of The Seven Levels of Healing® program, patients and family members begin to address these questions by first clarifying and writing a “mission statement” for their lives, and sharing them openly with each other. In this process, they are encouraged to explore the meaning and purpose of their lives and discover what brings them the deepest joy and fulfillment.

Next, patients and family members define and prioritize their top 20 goals for the upcoming year, and share these with each other as well. This is a powerful process for everyone involved. If patients in particular have well-defined and personally compelling reasons to live, the challenges of cancer become easier to overcome. By getting very clear about whether they really want to live, and why, patients often find previously unknown reserves of energy and strength, which can be extremely valuable on their journey through cancer. In addition, by knowing exactly what their most important goals and priorities are, patients and loved ones are better able to focus their time, energy, and attention on what is most meaningful in their lives.

Another part of the Life Assessment Process involves inviting each of us to begin thinking about how we want to be remembered after we are gone from the Earth. This provides an extremely valuable opportunity for individuals to see if they are living their lives in a way that is consistent with their deepest values and beliefs.

Some patients will go through the Life Assessment Process and decide that they are, in fact, at peace with themselves and their values, and are content with their lives and current treatment plan. Some will want to make changes in a variety of areas, while continuing to pursue active treatment. Still others will conclude that they are ready to let go of life, and will choose to decline further treatment. Family, friends, and the health care team should honor and respect the preferences of patients, wherever they are on this continuum.

Take action: see How You Can Accomplish Level 6 Today.

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