People often ask me, "How do I find what I truly want out of life?"
It's a question worth asking, and one that we've all asked ourselves at some point in our lives.
But where do you start, and more importantly, where has this question led you? Do you simply put it in the back of your mind and just coast through life? Or are you consciously working towards your goals and purpose?
THE COASTING MINDSET
What is a coasting mindset?
Well, think about a time when you lacked passion or felt like you were going through the motions. Or perhaps you've recently felt that you're in a never-ending loop of routine and monotony - week in and week out. Going through the motions, as it were. This is the coasting mindset.
It is a state of complacency where we avoid exploring our deeper desires and potential and react to what happens in our lives as opposed to living intentionally.
THE CALL OF PURPOSE
At the opposite end of the spectrum is purpose.
Now, purpose is a big word and it comes in many forms. It can be found internally, through your work, your family, and through your hobbies and passions.
Embracing purpose means living with intention. It's taking control of your actions and aligning them with your goals.
The idea is to have a clear sense of direction of where you're going. Your purpose is your compass in life, closely supported by your values. Purpose gives you a reason to wake up each day. It's not always easy to follow purpose, but it keeps you focused on your North star.
FINDING purpose and CLARITY THROUGH MINIMALISM
So, how do you find purpose?
An effective way to start finding purpose is by filtering your life through minimalism. A minimalist approach or lifestyle does not mean giving up on everything. It's about creating focus by decluttering our physical and mental spaces.
Doing so creates room for introspection and clarity in finding out what truly matters to you.
THE ROLE OF ACTION
Now, simply identifying your purpose is not enough.
It's all about backing your thoughts and words and turning them into action. Action unlocks your true potential.
So to lead a purpose-driven life, you need to start working on an action plan. The first thing to note down is your end goal; your purpose. Make it crystal clear.
From there, include measurable (and SMART) goals - both big and small. Set them at 1, 3, 6, and 12-month intervals. At each point, take some time to review your progress and ask yourself the following questions:
What have I accomplished?
What did I struggle with these last few weeks?
Have the steps I've taken brought me a step closer to my purpose and where I see myself in the future?
Am I underestimating myself and my abilities?
What do I need to do this interval to get closer to where I need to be?
Do I need help and guidance to get me closer to my purpose?
Be open and transparent with yourself. Transparency will tell you exactly where you are and will only help you get better. The idea once again is to take deliberate steps towards your goals, no matter how small they may be.
the wrap-up
Discovering purpose requires change and stepping outside of your comfort zone. The journey towards purpose begins by understanding yourself better.
By actively following the introspective exercise mentioned earlier, you'll start identifying your passion, strengths, and values.
If you're brave enough to take on this journey, I encourage you to reflect on where you currently stand and think about this question this week: Are you coasting through life, or are you ready to thrive with purpose?
Until next time,
Oliver Bukasa
Comments