What if I told you researching this blog caused me a minor internal crisis? Oops! However, it became a great opportunity for me to look inwards. I know this is a big life question that has been studied by billions of people. So I extended some grace to myself and I hope you will do the same as you read this blog.
Do you remember how you felt the first time someone asked you, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” They end up leading to feelings of panic and confusion which meant that you became aware of the uncertainties of life. The most common are: lack of financial security, natural disasters, accidents, illness, inflation etc.
As you grow older you start to wonder what your purpose is. You may also feel like you desire to do things that are bigger than you. Finding these answers help you live a fulfilling life, have a sense of direction and influence your behavior.
Purpose is having a sense of direction in life. It is also a process which helps a person to be proactive in figuring out the needs and values that drives them.
You should know that purpose evolves over time. This is relevant especially because you are living in the information age. Therefore you are bound to adopt different perspectives and make informed choices on the go. The downside is struggling with information overload.
Remember that change is a constant in life. This means that being adaptable is an important life skill. You gradually become better at processing change
How do you find your life purpose?
- Focus inwards. Address only one question at a time. You could start with, “How can I be happy?” You could observe past experiences that made you happy. Then find out what made them that good.
- Take ownership of your life. This means being accountable, open to learning and discovering your own agency.
- Asking, “What brings me joy?” This helps you find your passions and hobbies. In the long run it helps you add to number 1.
- Discover your true needs. Your life is bigger than just being in survival mode. You need to grow and adjust to different seasons of life. These needs are based on the six human needs your top need affects the decisions you make. They are– certainty, significance, variety, love/connection, growth or contribution.
- Find your community. You will wither be able to learn how to live according to your purpose or discover it. A community can be made up of people who share common values. Which makes it a resourceful group to be in.
The good news is that you do not have to deal with these questions alone. Professionals such as mentors and life coaches help to guide you through such a life changing process. Above that, you are free to think creatively about your life’s purpose.
“The mystery of human existence lies not in just staying alive, but in finding something to live for.” – Fyodor Dostoyevsky
Growth Catalysts 