Three Ways To Help You Find Your Purpose
Find your purpose. It’s something we’ve all heard before but it seems kind of vague and simultaneously overwhelming, doesn’t it? Let’s start with the basics. What exactly is a life purpose? It means different things to different people but as long as it means something to you, then you’re on the right track. For someone who is religious or spiritual it could signify a higher calling from God. To someone else it could be a fulfilling and satisfying career. When it comes down to it, purpose is what gets you out of bed in the morning. It will be unique for everyone. It seems BIG -life defining even - but you don’t have to be precious about it.
Your purpose will likely change as your life, goals, and priorities change. Finding your purpose does not have to be an archeological dig. Go with what feels inspiring for you and see where it leads.
Here are three exercises you can do right now, to help you find your purpose. And don’t forget: don’t overthink it.
Write Your Eulogy
No, seriously. I know it sounds morbid but it’s actually a really great exercise to get to the root of what your driving purpose is. First, write a eulogy for the life you have lived so far as if you were gone tomorrow. Next, write a eulogy for the end of a full life that you would love to live in which you achieve your goals and dreams. Now compare them and take note of any similarities and major differences. While reading each eulogy what components make you feel most proud and fulfilled?
Fill out a Purpose Venn Diagram
Create a Venn Diagram with four main circles all intersecting in the middle. The four topics of each circle will be:
What You Love Doing
What You Can Get Paid To Do
What You Are Good At
What The World Needs
Once you feel out the main circles, you can narrow it down, add to the lists, and be more specific as you get to the overlaps. The space where all four of the circles overlap in the middle, is where your purpose lies.
Ask Someone You Trust
A person who knows you well, like a trusted friend, family member, or coach may be able to offer insight about your purpose from a different vantage point. Have a conversation with a confidant about what they think drives you and be open to their feedback. What they see as your purpose may not be what it is for you but it will give you additional perspective.
Knowing your purpose is linked to wellness, can motivate you, and can make life more fulfilling but don’t get too hung up on picking a purpose you have to stick with forever. Change and transitions are inevitable and your purpose will evolve as you evolve. If you’d like additional help with finding your purpose, talk to me about one-on-one coaching and we’ll find it together.