Living on Purpose

Living on Purpose: A Surgeon's Story describes the origins, the very personal journey, and the reflections of Dr. Constance Haan. Her journey starts from very humble beginnings in rural southeastern South Dakota. The path from small farm and one-room country schoolhouse to become one of a rather "elite club" of female cardiothoracic surgeons and was not a direct route. She relays tales of the major influences of her early years, and describes the process by which self-awareness and awareness of purpose evolved, influencing career choice and pathway decisions. Some aspects of the journey represent strategically planned goals and events, while others represent an opportunity for adaptation and building resilience. Dr. Haan shares her circuitous journey, and the self-assessment mile-markers along the way. She reflects and expounds on her life choices, barriers that presented themselves, and some of the poignant influences along the way. She speaks from strength of achievement, yet is particularly reflective on the challenges and weaknesses with which she's dealt throughout her life. Her reflections around this personal travelogue provide a commentary on those internal and external influences for discovery, values and goals, and finding and fulfilling purpose in life. Not everyone is meant to become a heart surgeon, but each individual can make a difference. And the lessons learned and insights shared by Dr. Haan may prove useful to others as they read and consider their own purpose.