Living Life on Purpose: Embracing the Journey of Self-Discovery

Purpose

The reason for which something is done or created or for which something exists.

When I look back on the earlier years of my adult life I am shocked at the amount of time I spent just going through the motions. I’ve recently dubbed those years as my “rock tumbler” years.  Sharp edges were being smoothed out through tough lessons. I’m convinced that as humans we are never completely out of the tumbler, and in some strange way, that very idea is what makes life so precious and meaningful. This is why it is so important to live life on purpose.

When I use the expression “live life on purpose” my brain studders like a scratch on a vinyl record. Something about it causes me to think about the combination of words.  It’s like my brain can’t instantly process it or assign meaning to it.  Not without deeper thought and reflection. I think this is why I like it so much. 

Live life on purpose. What does it mean? What does it look like? What does it feel like? Am I living life on purpose? The answers to these questions are so unique and deeply personal for each human being. The reality is, only you can answer them. It takes a journey of self-discovery to begin peeling back the layers. It’s like finding a hidden treasure buried deep within yourself.  Every step you take, every twist, turn, and electrifying feeling you get when you stumble upon something that sets your soul on fire makes the journey so worth it.  

Purpose might not be a one-and-done exploration.

Finding purpose is deeply personal journey and I invite you to consider this concept. It might not be '“a” thing, meaning a singular purpose. It might be many things. Don’t get too hung up on the literal meaning of the words.

Sure, some people out there might have a calling so strong that all of their lifes focus is dedicated to one single purpose. When I think of examples of this, I think of people who dedicate their lives to mission work in third-world countries or scientific researchers who go off the grid for years at a time.  This is admirable and so impactful to our world.  

However, many of us fall into the multi-dimensional category of purpose. Be open to the idea that you might be one of these people and finding purpose might not be a one-and-done experience for you.

Maybe you have found purpose in your work but not in your relationship.  Perhaps you are so fulfilled by living life on purpose with your family but struggle to find purpose in your self-care or well-being.  When your life is mutli-demntional your purpose can be as well.  It's also important to keep in mind that your purpose is likely not a static state. As your life changes your purpose might change as well. Again, only you will know. 

Living life on purpose is a journey. Perhaps the things you went through or the things you are doing now were meant to prepare you for what’s coming next. This is why reflection and realignment are so important.  Staying plugged and self-aware will help guide you through the turns and tumbles of life.