The Power of Soul-Searching: How Asking the Right Questions Can Lead You to Success

We all have moments of doubt. Moments when we question our path and wonder if we are on the right track. I used to feel that way. I was living a life that felt more like a checklist of routines than a journey, chasing external validation, and always striving for something more. It was a recipe for stress and unhappiness.

But then, something shifted. I started asking myself one fundamental question.

“If I only have one year to live, what would I do differently?”

That question shook me right to the core. It forced me to confront my own priorities and realize that I was wasting precious time on things that did not truly matter to me. I was spending most of the time chasing materialistic gains which I do not truly need and not bringing me additional joy and happiness. I am also spending time meeting people that are not truly genuine or consequential to me. I was neglecting the genuine relationship that brought me the most joy.

I decided to make a change and dedicated more time to mentoring and coaching, particularly those who are most in need such as underprivileged youth and upcoming leaders who could have gained more from my previous experience and knowledge. I joined a number of international mentoring websites and began helping people in many countries such as Hong Kong, China, Singapore, Canada, India, and Trinidad. It was incredibly rewarding to see them gain clarity and develop action plans to achieve their goals.

I also drew upon my previous experience in the commercial sector to undertake consulting and advisory work for NGOs that provide impactful community services to society. I gave advice that was truthful and candid without political considerations. Many times, these unbiased suggestions were transformational and helped these organizations to achieve their vision and long-term goals. I also became a board member of an NGO which specializes in supporting marginalized mothers to start their own businesses or return back to the workforce community.

These experiences have been tremendous for my personal growth and development. While working with the younger generation, I feel so much more aligned with the needs of society, particularly towards the millennial and younger generation. It has been a great learning experience for myself. I am so grateful that I was given these opportunities to serve and make a meaningful impact that I enjoy. I realize the true joy of happiness is to give rather than to receive. My friendship with my close friends have improved significantly, and I have a great family life with my wife and two daughters.

This journey, though exciting, has not always been easy. There are setbacks and challenges. I have learned that the key to success is not just about working hard, rather than working with a clear vision and intention. It is about knowing yourself, your values, and your goals. Be relentless, patient, and humble, and you will achieve things that you previously felt like were impossible.

So my advice to you is this:

Take some time for reflection and ask yourself some tough questions. These questions might not be easy to answer. But they will force you to confront your own limiting beliefs and identify the things that are truly important to you. Just write them down as they cross your mind, such as:

“What is the one question you want to ask yourself that will frighten you and will force you to relook at your current priorities?”

“What is one small change you can make today to start living more intentionally?”

Write down your own answers and see if they make sense to you. I am sure you will be surprised by some of these answers. In addition, they might just be the key to unlocking your full potential.

What advice have you found helpful in your own journey of self-discovery? Share your thoughts so that we can learn together.