Covid 19 Raises the Number 1 Question.

Janice Tovey
2 min readDec 26, 2021

Does my life have meaning?

A lone woman walks along a deserted beautiful beach at sunrise. The woman  is basking in the glow of the sun and contemplating her life path.
Photo by Pepe Reyes on Unsplash

We are entering year three of a pandemic with its concomitant division, anxiety, sadness and death. Our collective brush with mortality has us permanently changed. No one has remained unscathed. It is an unprecedented wound, a worldwide trauma with consequences so far reaching as to be almost unimaginable. Forced to face our own mortality, it is not surprising that many are taking this time to deeply reflect upon what truly matters in our lives.

Does my life have meaning?

Statistics in the U.S. show that 2.9 percent of the population quit their jobs in 2021. The term “the great resignation” refers to the mass exodus of people from their current employment. Individuals changed careers, moved to different companies, or took pay cuts for more flexibility, and more time. Aware of our fragile immortality; we have been forced to re-evaluate our lives.

Are we fulfilled? Are we happy? Are we joyful? And the most important question; do our lives have meaning?

What does a meaningful life look like to you?

The desire to “better ourselves” is natural, and goal setting is an essential part of the process. We may pursue a new certification, or seek employment that provides personal freedom and creative expression. What is it we value? Whatever the goal, it is important to consider not only what we do for a living, but how we want to live; how we want to feel.

What brings us fulfillment and joy?

3 things to think about:

  1. How do we want to live our lives? What do we cherish? Is it more time with our parents, our children, ourselves? Make a list of your top ten most important considerations. This list is imperative.
  2. How do we logically accomplish our goals? Once we have determined what is important; consider the different paths to achieve your desires. Be flexible. The answers might surprise you.
  3. We will need support and encouragement: Find a group of like minded people. Individuals you know have your back; your best interest at heart. Others may project their fears and uncertainties on to you. Stay focused.

As we move into 2022, give yourself the time you need to reflect upon your dreams and ambitions. Take care to answer the most important question of all.

What brings meaning to your life?

Courageously move forward into the life you desire.

All the best!

Janice Tovey

My passion is writing. I also love reading, teaching, animals, nature, music, and humor. I am curious about everything and enjoy writing about all things.