Living Your Purpose
I. Introduction
Do remember when you were a child parents,other adults and perhaps teachers would ask “What do you want to be when you grow up?” As a teenager, you might even have asked yourself, “What am I here for?” Having a purpose is one thing that differentiates human beings from other animals. We think about who we are and why we are.
Without some thought of our purpose, we are by definition aimless. You might say that our first attempt at living our purpose is deciding what it would be. I would guess that most of us have experimented with a variety of purposes in our lives. We try them out as play when we are children. Some children like to play house. Others like to dance, or play fireman.
Some people seem to lock onto a purpose very early in life. Consider, for example, how early in life Olympic athletes begin to train. I recently saw an interview with Willie Nelson. He shared how its father gave him a guitar when he was very young. He also shared that he was writing songs early and his youth as well.
Dr. Jordan Peterson explains that we find a meaning in the process of moving towards a goal. When we have a purpose in life, that is exactly what we were doing. We are discovering, experiencing, and enhancing the value of our lives..
II. Discovering Your Purpose
Although some people may latch onto a purpose early in life, many more people drift along until their late teens. If they haven’t dropped out of school earlier, it is now time to decide on a clearer path. It’s time to get a job or move onto higher education. Without at least this much of a purpose it’s easy to fall into drug abuse and alcohol.
To discover our purpose, it is helpful to both look within and without. Often we can make forward steps by thinking about people we admire then we might take time to reflect about that admiration. What is it about this person that attracts us? Do we want to be like them? Do we want to do what they do?
In the process, it is OK to remember that our goals are purpose may evolve and change throughout our lives. I’m thinking of a current example. The swimmer, Riley, Gaines has discovered a new purpose beyond just swimming, and being a champion. Her current purpose has become to defend women athletes.
I went to undergraduate college as a recreation major. Later, after a profound religious experience, my purpose led to ordination. Upon reflection, I remembered that part of my education as a recreation professional was to learn that the pursuit of spirituality was considered the highest form of leisure. So for me, the shift was not as big change, as one might think.
Often our purpose in life is not so directly connected to a profession or a job. For example, I have always considered part of my purpose is to be the best husband I possibly can.
III. Overcoming Obstacles
A. Common challenges in pursuing one’s purpoYou are probably familiar with the old, saying, “It’s hard to remember you came to drain the swamp when you’re up to your ass in alligators.” We get caught up in the every day activities of life and lose our focus on our bigger goals. If we fail to plan time it passes quickly.
For example if your goal is to write a book it is important to set aside a specific time and place to write. I have heard Jordon Peterson share that he gets most of his writing done while flying from city to city.
It has been said that teenagers yearn for time with their parents. If you plan, you goal is to be the best parent you can be then daily time, even ten minutes a day is. It is also said that on their deathbed, no one wishes they had spent more time in the office.
It can be helpful to post a picture or symbol of your goal where you can see it regularly. For example, on your mirror or refrigerator.
Be prepared with strategies for overcoming setbacks and doubts. You can put target dates for subgoals on the calendar. Be sure to include daily prayer for the project. For example, we are growing a crop on our land in Arkansas, it will take five years before harvest. I daily say a prayer and picture in my mind the day when harvest will come.
C. Embracing resilience and perseverance
Adopt a “can do” attitude across all your endeavors. Mark the small successes along the way keeping an attitude of gratitude.
IV. Aligning Your Life with Your Purpose
Be intentional and exams your everyday life. Ask yourself, “How does this activity fit my purpose and goals.
V. Finding Fulfillment
Realize and notice that moving towards your goals and purpose is what brings meaning to your life. As you cultivate a positive mindset, your life will be better. One way I look at my life and purpose is through the lens of my youth in the Boy Scouts of America. In the back of my mind to consciousness by the 12 parts of the Boy Scouts’ creed: trustworthy, loyal, helpful, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent.
VI. Inspiring Others
Just as you have been inspired by the people you admire, so also seek to be someone others admire. Take time, without boasting, with your circle of friends. Listen to others and encourage them to pursue their purpose. Do what you can to be a part of a supportive community of friends.
VII. Case Study
My friend Lisa Sexton, is the CEO of a nonprofit organization, All things possible medical ministry. She pours her heart and soul and prayers into it. Their mission is to raise money to provide wheelchair accessory vans to those in need. She is an inspiration to many that has collected around her many capable people who share her purpose. She is also an inspiration because she herself has had money difficult health issues to overcome. Through all of it, she keeps a positive and grateful attitude.
VIII. Conclusion
I hope this essay has inspired you to take a closer look at your goals and purpose in life. As you do, you will find new meaning and satisfaction for a life well lived.
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