Back in February, I spent 35 days in the hospital, 10 days in the ICU, and endured 8 surgeries.

Before this, I focused on my career, fun, and adventure — but I often found myself lost in thoughts about the past or future, rarely living in the present.

During my hospital stay, the pain was unbearable, leading to moments of deep uncertainty. Yet I found comfort in the simplest things: the touch of my father's hand, my mother's efforts to distract me, my husband's embrace, and my newborn's snuggles.

Everyday activities — eating, or just using the bathroom — took on new meaning, reminding me to cherish every moment.

When I lost my sense of presence and was overwhelmed by thoughts of the past or future, I sought guidance from military chaplain, Major Kim.

Instead of offering platitudes, he asked me two questions.

"How would you evaluate your life so far?"

Reflecting on my career, my relationships, and my adventures, I felt something unexpected: satisfaction.

"What do you want to change moving forward?"

This question struck me deeply. I realized that instead of dwelling on the past or worrying about the future, I wanted to take what I was learning in that hospital room — to embrace the present, and to savor the small moments that bring joy.

As a career coach, I know how intertwined our work is with our overall life satisfaction. A career that drains you doesn't stay at the office — it follows you home, into your relationships, into your sense of self.

So I'll ask you the same two questions Major Kim asked me:

How would you evaluate your life and career so far?

What would you change moving forward?

Sit with those. You might be surprised by what comes up.