Journey to Find Your Purpose

Searching for your purpose is like setting sail. It’s an adventure where you have complete control over the direction you take your life, yet you might not always know where that will be. It can be scary heading out to sea, especially when the winds of heredity and the waves of education are bucking against you. You might think you have lost your way, especially if you are sailing against the prevailing current. But inside of you is the captain and the compass that can help you find your way. If we allow it, that compass will take us home.

First, let’s clear up a misunderstanding: finding your purpose isn’t about discovering a buried treasure (with a big X marked on the map) or receiving a thunderous lightning bolt from the heavens. It’s more of a cyclical process of discovery, exploration, and reflection, peeling away the egotistical self-illusions we impose on ourselves to find what truly matters.

So, what’s the first step in taking this journey into the self? Some actionable items to get you on your way:

Listen To Your Heart: Turn down the static of your external world and turn up the volume on what you know to be true. What are the things that you love and could do all day long? What are the causes that stir you to action? What are the dreams that wake you up in the morning? What moments do you live for that fill you with energy, joy, purpose, and meaning?

Follow Your Dreams: Let yourself freely explore your passions. Go deeper into a new hobby or volunteer for a cause you really care about. Sign up for an evening or weekend program in a field you are interested in.

Take Stock of Your Values: What are your principles and values? What type of imprint do you want to leave on the world? Pause and think about how you might bring your actions in line with your firmest and most honorable beliefs. How would you love to leave an imprint on the world? How are you currently leaving an irreversible mark on your world?

Embrace Your Quirks: What is unique and wonderful about you? What strengths, talents, and interests make you distinctive? What ‘quirks’ or gifts do you possess that could be harnessed to benefit others?

Find inspiration: Feed and nurture yourself with sources of inspiration and wisdom. Read writings, listen to podcasts, engage with mentors and friends – tap into the ideas and experiences of others, and let them inspire you to illuminate your own path.

Respect the Process: Your purpose is not a destination but a process of evolution. Allow the twists and turns, the unfamiliar insights, the blurry moments, and the bright revelations, for in this. You are doing well on your journey to perceive your purpose more fully and to enhance your multidimensionality as you undergo the process.

So here’s where I wrap up — dear reader, know you are not alone. Trust the process. Trust yourself. And with curiosity and courage, embark on the adventures of finding your purpose. Get out of your own way. For there is dope inside you, and I know it. With hope, you’ll explore and awaken the world around you.