Why am I doing this? What am I doing with life? Am I headed in the right direction? These are questions we often ask ourselves or the experienced people around us. “What is my purpose in life?” is what we want to know? And why do we set ourselves on the path of finding this answer? Well, so that life is filled with direction and meaning. And we all want that isn’t it? Growing up, we all have preconceived ideas about our life’s purpose that come from the family and society we grow up in. It could be having an extensive career or a family. But people often don’t experience fulfillment in what they thought was their purpose. It is because soon they realize that purpose isn’t an end goal but your ‘why.’It answers why you do what you do! And thus, it gives direction and meaning to your life.
Before we dive in deeper to know the ways of finding purpose, let us decipher its meaning.
Also termed ikigai, the purpose is why you want to live life! It has been said that our purpose is as unique as our fingerprint. The sense of purpose is crafted from passion and practical considerations. In this world of uncertainty, purpose doesn’t bolt you in arduous times but sustains you!
Coming to why probably you are reading this blog, how do I find my purpose in life. Here are seven tips that can help you find your purpose.
1. Begin the quest from within
Your happiness is what will lead you to your purpose. And hence the quest begins from within. Spend some time with the best company in this whole wide world, and that is nobody but you yourself! Become aware of yourself instead of seeking approval from the outside world. Understand what makes you truly happy. Let go of all the limiting beliefs pulling you down and set yourself free to find your purpose.
2. Become aware of yourself
This can be done with the help of journaling or may be talking to your near and dear ones. Decipher what your strengths and weaknesses are. What makes you happy? What makes you sad. Note everything down, and also pen down how you would like your life to take shape. All of this will help you carve your purpose.
3. Develop an optimistic and growth mindset
The vision shouldn’t be to compete with an X person but to become a better version of yourself. This way, you get a constant landmark to achieve. So when we say develop an optimistic and growth mindset, we mean for you to grow! Have challenges? Take them as opportunities. Be okay with failure and criticism, and remember to persevere.
4. Have a vision
A vision is like having a compass for the sea of life! It gives you the direction needed and keeps you from wandering. Make sure your vision is in alliance with your beliefs and core values. Just so it can anchor you in difficult times. A vision also helps in striking the right balance in life. It is like a constant reminder to head in the right direction.
5. Be grateful
Being grateful for what you have perhaps develops a stronger sense of purpose. Appreciate the little things in life for it will instill a strong sense of value. Be grateful for your challenges as although tough, they are opportunities. Practice altruism and look beyond your own needs. Spend time with your loved ones and don’t forget to journal what you are grateful for.
6. Surround yourself with the right people
As the saying goes, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” And so it is very important to choose the right company! Not only does it inspires us to be the best version of ourselves but also gives us a direction. Chances are that you may discover your purpose with the company that you choose. So choose wise!
7. Be flexible
We often pull ourselves down by resisting change or by not letting go off the old interests and identities that no longer serve us. Its indeed difficult to do both but to act in the opposite direction is a must. The wise have reiterated time and again that change is the only constant and so adapt we must. Learn we must.
Remember in your quest for purpose that it isn’t a destination but a lifelong journey.
