1. What inspired you to write Rx for Resilience? Was there a specific moment or experience that acted as a catalyst for this book?
Dr. Saroj Dubey: There was an episode in my life when a patient of mine developed complications and passed away. That event proved to be a major turning point, acting as a catalyst for transformation and awakening. I wanted to share my journey, the emotional alchemy, and the transformation through this book.
2. Your book emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and meditation. How did you incorporate these practices into your own life, and how have they influenced your personal journey?
Dr. Saroj Dubey: Mindfulness and meditation have been a significant part of my life and journey. Being aware and present with whatever is happening, with an open heart, can be incredibly helpful in living life effortlessly. In the book, I also describe how, apart from traditional meditation, we can practice mindfulness in our day-to-day lives—for example, while eating, walking, or listening.
3. Winning the Sahitya Sparsh Award is a remarkable achievement. How has this recognition impacted your perspective as an author?
Dr. Saroj Dubey: The Sahitya Sparsh Award is highly prestigious, and it is an honor to receive it. This recognition brings a lot of credibility to me as an author. As a first-time author, it provides me with confidence that my writing is making an impact and inspires me to continue writing more.
4. The book combines personal anecdotes with practical exercises. How did you balance sharing your personal story while ensuring the content remains universally relatable?
Dr. Saroj Dubey: While writing the book, I was always mindful of the fact that it would resonate with readers only if it was practical and offered them actionable tips or practices to try. This is why I included various exercises and practices that had enormously benefitted me, with the hope that they would guide others as well.
5. Resilience is a central theme in your book. In your opinion, what is the single most important quality one needs to develop resilience?
Dr. Saroj Dubey: In my experience, the most important factor in building resilience is awareness of our inner landscape—our emotions and thoughts. When we become aware of what is happening within us, we create space to navigate inner challenges, which helps in increasing resilience.
6. How do you approach the writing process? Do you have a specific routine or rituals that help you stay focused and inspired?
Dr. Saroj Dubey: When I started writing, I knew time was limited, so I approached it practically and set realistic goals. I made it a target to write consistently every day, even if it was just 100 words. Once you establish consistency, momentum builds, and that momentum inspires you to write more. At least, this approach worked well for me.
7. As a practicing gastroenterologist and TEDx speaker, you lead a busy life. How do you find time to write and pursue your passion for mindfulness?
Dr. Saroj Dubey: It’s true that being an active and busy gastroenterologist leaves me with limited time, but mindfulness, meditation, and motivation are my passions. I have always made time for them. Meditation, in particular, has been a powerful practice—daily meditation leaves me feeling energetic, enthusiastic, and optimistic. This sense of well-being enables me to dedicate time to my passions and hobbies. I strongly recommend meditation to my readers.
8. What was the most challenging part of writing this book, and how did you overcome it?
Dr. Saroj Dubey: The biggest challenge was exposing my vulnerability to others. Initially, I hesitated to share my experiences openly out of fear of judgment. But something—perhaps my intuition—pushed me to share everything honestly. I realized that my vulnerability could help others, and that has proven to be true. Receiving this award further confirms that my intuition was right.
9. If readers could take away just one key lesson from Rx for Resilience, what would you want it to be?
Dr. Saroj Dubey: The most important takeaway for readers is to accept whatever is happening with an open heart, without resistance or judgment. This practice can be truly transformative.
10. Do you have any advice for aspiring authors, especially those looking to write about deeply personal and transformative experiences?
Dr. Saroj Dubey: Absolutely. I encourage aspiring authors to be willing to be vulnerable and honest because readers resonate deeply with authenticity. Don’t hesitate to write even if you think your message isn’t entirely new—your unique voice and story may inspire others in ways you can’t imagine.
