Purpose Clarifies Why We Do What We Do
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Purpose clarifies why we do what we do, helps us set goals and motivates us to achieve them (Page 7 of my book The Dream Life Project). Determining what our purpose is in life can be one of the hardest things that we have to do. Every year, especially in December, I ask myself three questions:
1. What is my purpose?
2. How do I find out the ‘why’ in my life?
3. Why do I do what I do?
I found that my purpose has changed throughout my life, and I bet you found the same. If you haven’t spent a lot of time thinking about your own purpose, you might have some preconceived ideas about the purpose of life. These baked-in ideas about life often come from our family and the communities we grow up in. The purpose could be to get married and have kids. Or maybe it’s earning a certain amount of money or achieving a certain position in society.
Living a life of purpose is a deeply fulfilling endeavor that provides direction, meaning, and satisfaction. It’s about aligning your actions, goals, and values with what truly matters to you.
Here are some thoughtful steps to help you truly live a life of purpose:
Self-Reflection
Start by engaging in deep self-reflection to understand your passions, strengths, values, and interests. Ask yourself what activities make you feel alive, what causes you care deeply about, and what you would do if money were no object. Journaling, meditation, and seeking feedback from trusted friends and family can be valuable tools in this process.
Define Your Core Values
Identify the core values that guide your decisions and behavior. These might include integrity, compassion, creativity, or adventure. Knowing your values helps you make choices that are aligned with your true self, fostering a sense of authenticity and fulfillment.
Set Meaningful Goals
Based on your self-reflection and core values, set specific, achievable goals that align with your sense of purpose. These goals should inspire and challenge you, providing a roadmap for living a purposeful life. Break these goals into smaller, actionable steps to make them more manageable and trackable.
Embrace Your Passions
Incorporate your passions into your daily life. Whether it’s through your career, hobbies, or volunteer work, find ways to engage in activities that ignite your enthusiasm and bring you joy. Pursuing your passions can lead to a greater sense of fulfillment and help you make a positive impact in the world.
Serve Others
A purposeful life often involves contributing to the well-being of others. Look for opportunities to serve your community, support causes you believe in, and help those in need. Acts of kindness and service not only benefit others but also enhance your own sense of purpose and connection.
Stay Curious and Open
Living a life of purpose is an ongoing journey. Stay curious and open to new experiences, ideas, and perspectives. Embrace learning and growth, and be willing to adapt your path as you discover more about yourself and the world around you.
Practice Mindfulness
Cultivating mindfulness helps you stay present and connected to your purpose. Mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing, and mindful walking can help you stay grounded and focused on what truly matters.
Create a Supportive Environment
Surround yourself with people who support and inspire your journey. Build a network of friends, mentors, and colleagues who encourage you to pursue your purpose and hold you accountable to your goals. A supportive environment can provide the motivation and resources you need to stay on track.
Balance and Self-Care
While pursuing your purpose, it’s essential to maintain balance and practice self-care. Ensure that you’re taking care of your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. This includes getting enough rest, eating healthily, exercising, and taking time to relax and recharge.
Reflect and Adjust
Regularly reflect on your progress and experiences. Evaluate whether your actions and goals continue to align with your sense of purpose. Be open to making adjustments as needed, and celebrate your achievements along the way.
Living a life of purpose is a continuous and evolving journey.
It requires self-awareness, intentionality, and a commitment to aligning your actions with your values and passions. By taking these steps and embracing the process, you can create a meaningful and fulfilling life that resonates with your true self.
Remember, purpose is not a destination but a way of living that brings depth and richness to every moment.
Best,
