Is 2021 the Year You Discover Your Purpose?

Pre-blog Note: I recently completed my coursework to become a Certified Life Purpose Coach (you know me, always learning and always taking classes). It felt like a good match for me because even when I was doing ministerial counseling, it seemed like over half of the people seeking help were asking “What’s next?” or “What’s my purpose” or “I want to live a fulfilling and purpose-driven life, I just don’t know what that looks like” or variations of that theme.
 
My exciting news (exciting to me, anyway) is that I am putting the finishing touches on a brand new class I created called Pathways to Purpose. It’s an online self-study program, 4 weeks long with 9 videos and a workbook. By the time it’s finished, I’ll have spent over 100 hours putting it together. But. So. Much. Fun.

So, I thought I’d talk about purpose this month. The ideas in this article are different than those in the class, but I couldn’t cover everything in a 4-week class right?

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Having a sense of purpose is said to be associated with overall better physical and mental health. Because of the importance of feeling worthwhile, many people do whatever they can to discover their life purpose or passions.
 
Personally, I took classes, seminars, read books, asked others, looked to astrology, scientific hand analysis, Human Design, and more. Even today, I continue to tweak my purpose – but that’s part of my personality. Overall, my purpose hasn’t changed much over the past 15 years. But just in case, I still like to keep my hand in the ‘what’s my purpose’ pot.
 
Fulfilling your purpose helps you feel motivated. Feeling like you are living the life you came here to live also enables you to be happier, healthier, and more content overall. There are easy ways to discover your life purpose without making it daunting or stressful. But remember, over a long life, your purpose – or mission – might evolve.
 
Change Your Perspective
 
Before you can identify your life purpose, you need to understand the concept first fully. Discovering your life purpose and living it doesn’t mean that you’ll never be disappointed, unhappy, or deal with difficult situations.
 
In fact, you may even deal with it more. For example, if your life purpose is to be a business owner, you’ll most likely have to work more than you ever have before. Just because fulfilling your purpose (or even looking for it) isn’t as perfect or relaxed as you thought it would be, keep at it.
 
Just because something isn't 'easy' and 'effortless' doesn't mean you are on the wrong path or that the universe is sending you a message to stop. Sometimes (often) the things we want the most take effort, commitment, discipline, and dedication.

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What Do You Pride Yourself On?

In other words, are there things or qualities you aspire to be like and show to the world? Identify them and write them down.
 
Maybe every day you try your best to help someone because it makes you happy. Find jobs or activities that allow you to do this, such as nursing or volunteering at a food bank.
 
What Do You Daydream About?
 
Are there things you can’t stop thinking about while you are doing a job or task you hate? Even if it’s watching YouTube or Netflix, write them down anytime you think about them. My next-door neighbor watches DIY YouTube videos all the time. Her latest passion is learning how to build log cabins.
 
You never know what can transpire from what seems to be a “brainless” task. And when we’re open to daydreams, a scathingly brilliant idea might just pop in! There’s no reason to confine your purpose to what others think is good over what you think is awesome.
 
What Distracts You from Everyday Life Tasks?

Are there things you do endlessly that make you forget about easy everyday life tasks like eating or even going to the bathroom? Maybe you’re starving but can’t fathom taking a break just yet. Even if it seems silly to you, take the time to evaluate these tasks. Life purposes are not always obvious nor profound, and that’s okay. Don’t compare your life purpose with anyone else. Your purpose is uniquely suited to you!
 
As you try to figure out what your life purpose is, it helps to remember that you are living your life today – don’t stop. Sometimes stepping away and living for today makes finding your answers obvious. Change your scenery. Go to the library. Take a walk. Don’t force it.
 
If you need help brainstorming ideas or changing your perspective, maybe I can help.
 
You can connect with me by scheduling your free 45-minute Say Yes to Yourself Strategy call by clicking here.

Say yes to yourself by living your purpose!