The relentless pace of modern life, especially for career-driven individuals, can often leave us feeling adrift and disconnected from our true purpose. I should know, I spent 20 years tied to my previous business, constantly driving myself into the ground. I was caught in a whirlwind of deadlines, meetings, and responsibilities, with little time or energy left for introspection and self-discovery. Weekends were spent exhausted and depleted. But amidst the chaos, I longed for meaning and fulfilment. There was this little voice in my head asking, "There's something more, isn't there"?
So, where do you begin this journey of rediscovering purpose? Here are some questions I wish I knew to ask myself back then that you might like to consider asking yourself:
- What truly excites and energises me? Reflect on the activities, hobbies, or causes that ignite a spark within you (other than work). It might be a creative pursuit, an outdoor activity, learning a new skill, a personal growth activity or helping others. All these things have the side benefit of making us more interesting to ourselves (priority #1) and others. What do you find yourself daydreaming about when you have a spare moment? What kind of work leaves you feeling fulfilled and accomplished, even if it's challenging? Then, make time to actually do it (even if you're tired).
- What are my unique strengths and talents? Identify your natural abilities and skills. What comes easily to you that others may struggle with? What have you achieved in the past that you're particularly proud of?
- What are my core values? What principles and beliefs guide your decisions and actions? What causes or issues resonate deeply with you? Aligning your actions with your values can lead to a greater sense of purpose and fulfilment, rather than being a rudderless ship.
- What legacy do I want to leave behind? Think about the impact you want to have on the world. What difference do you want to make in the lives of others? What kind of mark do you want to leave on your community or society?
Finding Time for Self-Reflection in a Busy Schedule:
I hear you saying, well, that sounds great BUT I have no time! If you're struggling to find time for self-reflection amidst a hectic schedule, here are some practical tips:
- Carve out dedicated time: Schedule short blocks of time in your calendar for self-reflection, even if it's just 15 minutes a day. Treat these appointments as sacred and non-negotiable. It might be on the bus, or instead of watching TV at night, or mindlessly scrolling social media. Use that time to check in with yourself.
- Disconnect to reconnect: Step away from digital distractions and spend time in nature (especially on the weekend), engage in a creative hobby, or be present with your thoughts and feelings by using an app like
Headspace
or
Calm
or just taking deep belly breaths for 5-10 minutes. It will all help bring you back to yourself.
- Journal your thoughts and feelings: Writing can be a powerful tool for self-discovery. Keep a journal to explore your passions, values, and aspirations. It doesn't need to be pages and pages of writing, it can be simply answering a question like how am I feeling today? What's annoying me, what's giving me joy, who and what am I grateful for, what is interesting me at the moment?
- Seek guidance from a mentor or coach: A trusted advisor can help you gain clarity and direction on your journey to finding purpose. In my coaching practice, we explore what brings my clients joy and how to make it happen regularly. Sometimes, just like I had, they have forgotten to question themselves on this.
- Experiment and explore: Try new activities, volunteer for a cause you care about, or take a class to expand your horizons and discover new passions.
As someone who has also faced stage IV metastatic cancer, all the things I thought were important, I realised, were not. When you tune in and make it a regular practice, things in your life begin to become glaringly obvious that weren't before. Remember, finding your purpose is an ongoing journey of self-reflection and exploration. In fact, it could even be your life's work. Embrace the process, be patient with yourself, and trust that your unique path will unfold.
#purpose #meaning #wellness #selfcare #worklifebalance #personalgrowth #motivation #inspiration #mindfulness #leadership #career #fulfilment
CEO, Celsus | Board Director | Healthcare & Sustainability Leader | Keynote Speaker | Public-Private Innovator | Social Infrastructure Deal of the Year Winner (The Asset, 2024)
8 个月Jennifer Benfield, first of all, gorgeous photo! I love getting out and going for a walk - and definitely with my furry friend when I am home in Perth. Working from home is when I find it hardest to get out and walk/reflect (back-to-back Zoom calls). I know I need to schedule my own time as much as I do work - baby steps!! ??
Managing Director | Apple Australia & New Zealand ? Promoting Excellence. Championing Integrity. Fostering Inclusion.
8 个月Such healthy reminders Jennifer Benfield. We can so easily get stuck in the day to day - stepping away to re-energise is a powerful tool. Great read!
Executive Coach & Search Director | Career Strategist | Partnering with senior executives and aspiring C-suites to elevate leadership, map transformative career pathways, and enhance emotional intelligence.
8 个月All too often we can slip into the craziness of life and let go of the key things that give us energy and keep us centered, as you've mentioned in your article Jennifer Benfield. For me, allocating time in my diary ensures I get my recharge, whether that be walking my dogs or yoga. Thanks for sharing this article Jen, this is an important reminder to step out of the grind and into the fresh air.