Understanding and articulating what we believe we are born to do – our unique life purpose – is one of the most powerful ways to focus our finite personal development energy in the right places. It’s also one of the most effective ways to begin to visualize and become our best selves. And when we do that, it makes life better for us as well as those around us. Put another way, figuring out “what’s my why?” can be just the ticket – for our own personal development, happiness, and fulfillment.
Understanding Your Values: The Foundation of Your Why
Searching for life’s meaning can feel overwhelming. Have you ever wondered what truly drives you? Finding your life purpose isn’t just a trendy concept; it’s a key step to achieving happiness and fulfillment. Today, we explore self-discovery exercises that may help you to pinpoint your unique purpose in life.
As we continue through this process, many questions will arise. There is no rule book. Some questions you may find yourself grabbling with include:
- What am I intended to do with the gifts I’ve been given?
- Who should I befriend and support?
- How can I make the most powerful impact?
- Where will my involvement bring the most good?
- When I am drifting off course, how will I bring myself back to “my why”?
Here are a few more thoughts about where to begin your “What’s My Why?” questioning:
- When am I most relaxed?
- What brings me the most fulfillment on the job?
- Who are the most important people in my life?
- Do I feel as though I currently have work-life balance?
- Am I clear on my life goals?
- Do I feel as though I’m making progress or standing still?
- What would make me feel as though I were growing and developing?
- How would I spend a day if I had no obligations and money were no object?
- What would I attempt to do if I knew I could not fail?
- Who are the people who bring out the best in me?
There are no right or wrongs answers or outcomes. But some examples of “what’s my why” statements others have come up with are as follows:
- I live my life as I do to provide my family with a loving home.
- My purpose is to nurture and educate young children.
- I am most fulfilled when I provide compassionate care to the elderly.
- I share knowledge with others to help improve lives.
- I bring people together and work to resolve differences amicably.
Identifying Core Values
Another helpful approach to exploring your purpose starts with identifying your core values, which should shape how you live. To start, reflect on what matters most to you. These could include:
- Creativity
- Family
- Freedom
- Integrity
- Adventure
Exercise: List at least five values that resonate with you.
Prioritizing Your Values
Once you’ve identified your values, it’s time to prioritize them. Techniques include:
- Value clarification: Rank your values from most to least important.
- Vision boards: Create a visual representation of your top values.
Values in Action
Now, think about how your values show up in everyday life. For example, if family is a core value, how do you prioritize family time? Real-world examples can inspire you to live your values actively.
What’s My Why? Exploring Your Interests and Passions
Identifying Interests
Look within to discover what truly excites you. Consider these prompts:
- What were your childhood dreams?
- What hobbies make you lose track of time?
Did you know that people who engage in their passions often report higher job satisfaction?
Turning Interests into Passions
Once you identify interests, deepen your connection. Take steps like joining clubs or attending workshops. Many individuals transformed hobbies into careers, like artists who became full-time creators.
Passion Projects as a Testing Ground
Start small. Work on personal passion projects. These can clarify what you love most, helping you refine your interests further without a huge commitment.
What’s My Why? Recognizing Your Skills and Talents
Identifying Strengths
Self-assessment can help uncover your skills. Consider using:
- Personality tests (like Myers-Briggs)
- Skill inventories
Resource: Explore tools like Gallup’s StrengthsFinder to identify what makes you stand out.
Strengths-Based Approach
Focusing on your strengths fosters confidence and fulfillment. Experts agree this approach leads to greater success and happiness in life.
Bridging Skills and Passions
Combine your skills and passions to craft a meaningful purpose. For example, if you love writing and have a knack for storytelling, consider a career in content creation or journalism.
What’s My Why? Reframing Your Perspective
Identifying Limiting Beliefs
Beliefs can hold you back. Common barriers include:
- “I’m not good enough.”
- “I don’t deserve success.”
Recognize these thoughts as challenges to overcome.
Challenging Negative Self-Talk
Combat negative self-talk with positive affirmations. Switch “I can’t” to “I will try.” Practice self-compassion to build resilience.
Seeking Support and Mentorship
Don’t hesitate to seek guidance. Mentors can provide valuable insight and encouragement as you explore your life purpose.
What’s My Why: Defining and Refining Your Life Purpose
Formulating a Purpose Statement
Create a concise purpose statement. Here’s a simple template:
“I want to [or strive to] [impact] by [action or goal].”
Setting SMART Goals
SMART Goals can keep you on track. Make them:
- Specific
- Measurable
- Achievable
- Relevant
- Time-bound
This method ensures your objectives are clear and reachable.
Regular Review and Adjustment
Your purpose may change over time. Set aside regular intervals to reassess your goals and the relevance of your purpose.
What’s My Why? How to Uncover Your Life Purpose
Identifying your life purpose involves understanding your values, interests, skills, and obstacles. It’s an ongoing journey of reflection and growth. Start today by taking small steps toward self-discovery.
What will you do next on your journey? Share your thoughts in the comments and be sure to subscribe for more insights on finding fulfillment in life.
Thank you as always for reading.
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Joan Senio is the founder of KindCompassCoach. Her career includes 20+ years as a private sector corporate executive and 15 years as a consultant. The common thread through her professional life has been a commitment to compassionate coaching and leadership, including mentoring early and mid-career professionals as well as current and future executives and leaders. KindCompassCoach articles are backed by research and include facts and advice from relevant experts. Joan is a member of the International Organization of Life Coaches, serves as a thought-leader for KuelLife.com and is a regular contributor to PsychReg and Sixty and Me.
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