UNVEILING MY PURPOSE

A Journey of Self-Discovery

Sometimes, life surprises us with unexpected treasures. Recently, while going through my old files, I stumbled upon a collection of coaching session notes from years ago. This discovery sparked a journey of self-reflection, gradually unveiling insights that have transformed my perspective. I’ve come to realize that rushing through personal growth is futile; true discovery takes time and unfolds naturally, allowing us to embrace our true selves. As someone who values a purpose-filled life, the notes I found reminded me of the privilege of engaging in a coaching session with a trusted friend, colleague, and mentor those years back. Our conversation delved into the essence of purpose and the importance of genuine connections along the way.

The Weight of Expectations

During our session, my coach asked a profound question: "What will discovering your purpose truly bring into your life?" In response, I listed numerous expectations I had attached to finding my purpose. I believed it would solve most of my big problems, provide clarity, elevate my financial situation, and enhance my overall well-being. I knew that wasn’t a fair expectation but it was what I tightly held within my heart. My coach helped me even further realize that burdening my purpose with such high expectations might hinder me from truly sensing it and embracing it.

To illustrate this point, my coach used the analogy of dating and marriage. We can't expect one person to fulfill all our needs in a relationship, just as we can't place all our expectations on a single purpose. Such rigid expectations can lead to disappointment and blind us to valuable opportunities. I recognized the parallels in my own journey, understanding that clinging to fixed expectations can hinder my understanding of purpose and overlook other meaningful aspects of life.

Unearthing the Roots of Purpose

To uncover the signals of how I’ve experienced meaning in life, my coach encouraged me to revisit my childhood experiences. Together, we explored activities that brought me joy and moments of deep-rooted connection. I illustrated the profound impact of art and music in my life, particularly the transformative experience of holding a guitar for the first time. This exploration led me to other areas of awareness that went beyond artistic creation; it encompassed a deep longing to cultivate meaningful relationships and forge connections through co-creation.

Overcoming the Fog

However, I also confronted a fog of negativity that seemed to mute the joyful memory of these moments. I realized that once I began to reflect on ‘the good stuff’ a fog of ‘not-so-good stuff’ began to roll in. I shared with my coach how these negative experiences impacted my desire to authentically connect with others in a meaningful way. On one hand, I craved deep, meaningful relationships, but on the other hand, I couldn't help but feel the need to protect myself. It was like a delicate balancing act, trying to forge connections while also being cautious.

Connection as the Core Theme

Authentic Connection announced itself as a prominent theme in my life. It has proven to be a powerful force that influences how I experience joy and meaning. Initially, this realization brought excitement, but soon I found myself pondering how to harness its potential. How in the world do I monetize it? How can I transform it into a genuine career path rather than just a superficial gimmick?

Thankfully, my coach provided some valuable insights to navigate this dilemma. They highlighted that my yearning for purpose possibly gets entangled with the desire for immediate results, causing me to overlook the true essence of nurturing connections. Instead, they encouraged me to use Authentic Connection as a starting point for a renewed sense of introspection and exploration. Through prayer, deep self-reflection, and active listening, I could delve into the depths and possibly uncover something truly profound. It might even lead me to discover "it" or something closely aligned to “it”.

Embracing Simplicity

One of the most significant lessons I learned was the importance of embracing simple beginnings. My coach compared purpose to a seed. A seed doesn't appear flashy or captivating at first. Just as we don't marvel at a seed's allure, purpose often starts in a humble manner, with the potential to blossom into something extraordinary. Trusting the process and cherishing the initial stages became a crucial takeaway for me.

Connection is the thread that weaves through the tapestry of our existence. It is the source of inspiration, joy, and fulfillment. After looking over my notes of a long past coaching session — I’m still inspired to embrace the seed of connection and nurture it with care. To allow it to grow and bloom into something extraordinary. I’m reminded this is truly a journey and to let go of the expectation for immediate results. Instead, I long to trust in the process and appreciate the small beginnings, knowing that the greatest achievements often arise from the simplest of seeds.

Seeds are the foundation of life, and for me, Authentic Connection is a seed that holds the potential for profound transformation. I’m stirred to embrace it, cherish it, and watch in awe as it continues to blossom into something truly beautiful.

#purposecoach #authenticity #selfdiscovery

Chris Taylor is a leadership coach and culture transformation expert who helps leaders identify and remove barriers that keep organizations from achieving their full potential. He also serves on Anderson University's Inclusion Intelligence Research Team. Their research focuses on transforming organizational cultures through relationship-based leadership?and the employment of people with disabilities.?