I saw this quote and it got me thinking... ๐ญ "Ten years from now, make sure you can say that you chose your life and did not settle." It struck a chord with me because it speaks to the essence of purpose and living intentionally.
So many of us let life happen without considering the possibility of what it could be like if we chose the life we wanted. ๐ญ
Letโs face it, life isnโt always easy, and itโs easy to forget that we do have control over our lives. Many times we donโt even question this, let alone act on it. ๐ก
This could be due to many reasons, lack of confidence perhaps, following other peopleโs wants or expectations, limiting beliefs or simply a huge commitment to others or responsibilities.
We may not know any different, but we also feel lost, unfulfilled, discontented, or unhappy, yet still don't know the reason why. ๐
Knowing our purpose, choosing our path, and living intentionally is the key to crafting a life that reflects our true desires and aspirations and it's never too late to find a new purpose or change direction.
Why is finding your purpose so linked to happiness?
Purpose is connected to happiness for a few reasons;
Purpose Focuses You: Purpose provides a crucial sense of direction amidst life's chaos, serving as a guiding light amid the daily deluge of information. It reminds you why you wake up each morning, whether it's to provide for your family, make a difference to your community, or support your clients.
Purpose Grounds You: Similar to the feeling of awe when encountering something grand, purpose grounds you by connecting your actions to something greater than yourself. It empowers you to feel that your work matters to someone, contributing meaningfully to the world around you. By understanding how your role fits into the bigger picture, you can find happiness through purposeful actions.
Purpose Connects You: Social connection is vital for mental and physical well-being, and purpose plays a significant role in fostering these connections. When your work matters to others, you feel a deep sense of purpose and belonging. By aligning your work with serving others and contributing positively to your community, you can cultivate a fulfilling sense of purpose that enhances your overall happiness
So how do you find your purpose?
It's not uncommon for many individuals to grapple with this uncertainty, searching for clarity and direction in their lives. Here are some tips to help you find your path.
Find Your "Why": Dig deep to uncover your "why" โ the driving force behind your actions and decisions. Understanding your "why" can provide clarity and direction in discovering your purpose. ๐ง
Explore the Ikigai Exercise: Ikigai is a Japanese term that embodies the idea of finding purpose and fulfillment in life. Essentially, Ikigai is the sweet spot where your passions, talents, societal needs, and financial stability converge, guiding you towards a life of meaning and contentment. You can use the Ikigai framework to identify your intersection of passion, mission, vocation, and profession, guiding you towards a fulfilling life. ๐ฏ
Reflect on Your Passions: Take time to explore activities and interests that bring you joy and fulfillment. ๐บ
Identify Your Values: Consider what principles and values are most important to you and align your actions accordingly. ๐ช
Explore Your Strengths: Reflect on your strengths and talents to guide you towards activities where you can excel. ๐ผ
Pay Attention to Inspiration: Notice what inspires and motivates you, and use that as a guide for finding your purpose. ๐
Experiment and Try New Things: Don't be afraid to explore new hobbies, experiences, and opportunities. ๐
Seek Feedback: Talk to others for insights and perspectives on your strengths and potential areas of interest. ๐ฃ๏ธ
Reflect on Past Experiences: Look back on significant moments in your life to gain clarity on your values and beliefs. ๐
Consider Your Impact: Think about the impact you want to have on the world and how you can contribute to the greater good. ๐
Remember, it's never too late to define or redefine your purpose and transform your life. It's one of the most powerful things you can do to start living the life you truly want.