E274:The Paradigm Shift: From What You Want to What the World Needs from You

To: AM

In the relentless quest for meaning, we’re bombarded with the mantra: "Find what you want." It’s an alluring call to pursue our desires, to unearth our passions, and to chase our dreams.

But here’s the gritty truth – we are lost, not because we can’t find what we want, but because we are asking the wrong question.

The Illusion of Want

We are very, very complex beings, a chaotic ensemble of desires, dreams, and aspirations. Inside you, there’s not one singular you, but a million versions, each clamoring for attention. One moment you crave stability, the next you yearn for adventure. One moment you enjoy the abundance you have. The next you feel bored and do not know what you want. You want success, but you also want peace. You want to take care of others, but you also want to take care of yourself. These contradictory desires pull you in different directions, creating a perpetual state of internal conflict. (And you wonder why you don’t have internal peace!)

The Endless Struggle

The struggle to define what YOU want (the millions of different versions of what makes you) is endless. It’s a moving target, constantly shifting with your moods, experiences, and influences. This internal chaos can leave you feeling frustrated and directionless.

The more you chase after what you think you want, the more elusive it becomes.

The Radical Shift

What if the answer isn't within you, but around you? What if, instead of asking, "What do I want from life?" you asked, "What does life want from me?"

This radical shift in perspective can transform your journey from one of self-centered pursuit to one of profound purpose. It is the only recipe for internal peace - because it is aligned with the reasoning of life itself.

Life’s Call

Life doesn’t need you to figure out your desires; it needs you to respond to its needs.

The question is not about satisfying your internal chaos but about finding where you can make the most impact. It’s about identifying the unique contribution that only you can make.

It is NOT ABOUT YOU.

It is about serving life through caring for your surroundings - the magical kind of serving and giving that paradoxically leaves you with much more than what you gave.

The Harmony of Purpose

When you align yourself with what life needs from you, the internal conflicts start to fade. Your million selves begin to harmonize around a single purpose. This isn’t about sacrificing your happiness; it’s about finding a deeper, more fulfilling form of it.

Purpose is the antidote to the chaos of want. (Read this again)

How to Listen to Life

1. Observe and Reflect: Look at life around you. Where is there suffering that pains you? Where is there a need (any need) that matches your strengths and capabilities? Reflect on how you can serve.

2. Engage and Experiment: Get involved. Try different ways of contributing and see what resonates. Don’t wait for a perfect fit; create it through action.

3. Seek Feedback: Listen to what others say about your impact. Are you making a good difference (any)? Adjust based on real-world feedback, not just internal desires.

4. Commit to Growth: Life’s needs will evolve, and so must you. Commit to continuous learning and adapting to meet those changing needs.

The Simplicity of Service

When you shift the focus from what you want to what you can give, life becomes simpler. The noise of contradictory desires quiets down, replaced by the clarity of service. It’s not at all about denying yourself; ON THE CONTRARY, it’s about transcending the chaos to find a higher callings that give you the priceless personal reward - Inner peace and joy.

Conclusion: Your True Path

We’ve been taught to look inward for our path, but perhaps the true path lies outward. It’s not about ignoring your wants but understanding that fulfillment comes from aligning them with the needs of life through caring for those who you can help (even with a genuine smile).

By asking, “What does the world want from me?” you embark on a journey of purpose and impact. This isn’t a sacrifice; it’s a liberation from the tyranny of endless wanting and of being lost. It’s a call to step up, to contribute, and to make your life a masterpiece of service and meaning.

In the end, my friend AM, the world doesn’t need more people chasing their desires or what THEY WANT. It needs more people responding to its call. Be one of those people and enjoy the rewards of peace. Shift the paradigm, and watch your life transform from a series of wants into a symphony of purpose, peace, and a piece of paradise.

Life owes you nothing, except the deep joy that comes from serving others - while also taking care of yourself. That’s all that there is.

Michael - It is NOT about you.

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