Living a life with purpose
I still remember when I said life purpose out loud in front of a British friend and was immediately greeted with a snarky remark. “You North Americans,” he scoffed, “Always about your purpose and career. There is more to this life, ya know?” There is some truth in his words. The media today paints a glorified picture of purpose and calling. But does everyone have a purpose, and what does it mean to live the purpose?
What is life?
To answer this question, we need to first examine life itself - what makes up a life? More specifically, what makes up your life? If you asked me this question 8 years ago, I’d say it’s my job. I spent most of my waking hours at work or doing work at home. When my career took a hit, I felt personally attacked. I see the same pattern in many of my clients that one dimension of life has the power to decide their entire worth/happiness. When we’re consumed by one thing and one thing only (may it be career, love, or personal interests), we put on a blinder and create a tunnel vision. If that one thing fails, then our entire identity is brought to question.
The bitter-sweet truth is that life is grand and intricate. It is a beautiful buffet with much to offer (family, friends, community, hobbies/interests, nature, to name a few). What is on your plate?
Purpose and intention
Now let’s take a look at purpose. If it helps, leave the word “purpose” aside for a minute and think about the following questions:
How do you know which career path to choose?
How do you decide which friends to socialize with?
What activities do you fill your free time with?
What are the innate criteria you use when making decisions, big and small?
Think back on a time when you made a decision that “feels right.” What was that like? What factors did you consider? That distinctive feeling is a great telltale sign that you are being guided by your internal compass. A life purpose is very similar to the compass. It articulates who you are, what is important to you, and your impact on the world. I have found that a well-grounded life purpose (which we typically craft together) becomes the north star in my work with my clients. Even in the darkest and most turbulent moments, the purpose guides them with ease and steadiness.
It is important to acknowledge that the term “life purpose” may not resonate with everyone. If that’s the case, what framing serves you? At its core, a life purpose is about knowing yourself deeply. It is about living with intention and focus.
What does it mean to live your purpose?
It is a myth that we have to find our purpose / our calling first before life can begin or that our job has to be our calling. Your purpose can live in many things at the same time. For instance, if your goal is to uplift a community and solve real-world problems, you may choose to be a UX designer to build a tool for such communities. You may also choose to volunteer your time to mentor youths in said communities. Getting clarity on your purpose means that you will act with intention in all aspects of your life.
Takeaway
The choice is in your hands. Whether you believe in purpose or not, clarify your intention and what you’d like to focus on. One thing in life rarely brings us the utmost satisfaction. Instead, look for what brings you meaning in all parts of life. What brings you joy and makes you excited? What do you want to make real in this life? Living an intentional life is usually not the same as living a comfortable life because you will likely make hard decisions. I am confident that you will choose not the easiest but what aligns with your values.
