This is the seventh edition of The Founder’s Corner! Today, we’re talking about purpose. Specifically, we’re looking at the power of purpose, how to re-align or find your purpose, and – a big one – finding your “why”.
But first…
The Founder’s Corner posts are based on previous segments from our weekly newsletter. So if you want this type of content first, check out the link at the end of this post!
Now, let’s talk about purpose
Speaking about the topic of alignment…over the last week, one thing that has continued to pop up is the question, “Is my work aligned with my purpose?”
A lot of us spend so much time wondering what we are supposed to do with our lives and how to find the desired fulfillment. We often bounce between jobs, dip in and out of the world of entrepreneurship, or simply take a step back to pivot every now and again, hoping we will get it right the next time.
But what exactly is “purpose”?
Ultimately, your purpose is who you are at your core and how you express that being in the most authentic way possible. This purpose can shine through and be reflected in the work that you do, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be the only thing that defines your purpose. Instead, purpose can be defined as a mission that you feel inside of yourself, a calling to DO something!
Often times the pull can be so strong that if you aren’t walking in your purpose or following your “why” it can feel like you’re heading for an existential crisis…
However, finding true fulfillment can be hard to measure. No one can tell when you feel it. Your “why” comes from within you. It is up to you to unearth your purpose.
The problem is, that many lack the initiative to actually search for it. They settle, and end up longing for something different.
Yes, goals are helpful to re-align with your purpose. But more importantly, you need to be in step with a strong “why” in order for those goals to work for you. That strong “why” can help you push through the hard parts and can help guide you toward opportunities that align with your “why”.
Understand the power of purpose
Purpose can serve as a powerful driving force behind our actions, giving us focus, direction, and meaning in everything we do. It elevates our work by tapping into our deepest desires, values, and dreams.
“Purpose is, bringing forth the best that is within us.”
Stephen Cope
Our purpose does not always have to be about our careers. It can be about so much more!
It’s really about how we bring forth the best that is within us in any scenario that we are in. And when you merge your passion and inspiration toward things that support your “why”, – when you find your purpose – you will find true fulfillment.
Which came first, success or happiness?
Fulfillment and happiness matter. Research shows that you are 20% more productive when you are happy. And when you raise your levels of happiness, every other positive indicator of success goes up as well!
Oftentimes we haven’t consciously made decisions for our career paths, leading to a lot of unhappiness. Instead of actively making choices, our decisions are carelessly driven by mechanisms that we’re not even aware of and we wake up wondering how we got here in the first place. 🧐🧐
However, when you believe in and are passionate about the work you do, you are more likely to be motivated and eager to contribute your best efforts.
It is truly a day-by-day process of unearthing your purpose.
“Be brave enough to live the life of your dreams according to your vision and purpose instead of the expectations and opinions of others.”
Roy T. Bennett
So what does it look like to re-align your work with your purpose?
Let’s unpack the three guideposts to lead you back to your “why” 👇👇
1. Take Stock and Ask for Guidance
The first step to unearthing your purpose is to take stock and reflect on the things that you value – is what you do still connected to your purpose?
- How far are you from the target?
- How big is the distance between what you want to do versus what you are doing?
Once you’ve gained focus and clarity, work to align what you truly value with your behaviors.
- What impact do you want to make?
- What do you want to change?
Then, listen to what other people appreciate about you and let them mirror your gifts back to you. Your “why” provides stability and direction in the chaos of life.
2. Let Go of Set Plans, and Be Malleable
Don’t be afraid to pivot when you feel disconnected from your purpose!
Aligning your work with your passion and purpose is ultimately not a one-time event. It is a continuous process that requires regular review as it changes over time. So, don’t be afraid to explore different paths that align with your mission!
Sometimes, making a change can lead to new and unexpected opportunities that resonate with your life’s “why”. Be open to exploring different avenues and be willing to adapt and evolve along the way.
3. Step Out of Your Own Way
Finally, recognize that YOU are the biggest player in your own happiness. Stop letting life just happen to you. Stop justifying why things aren’t the way you want them to be. And don’t let fear hold you back!
- Get back to being curious.
- Treat your life as a daring adventure.
- Spend as much time on your gifts as possible.
At The End of the Day…
Ultimately, aim to create a purpose-driven approach to your work that translates into positively influencing those around you. Tell your story, and get back to who you are and what you’re meant to do.
All things considered, aligning your work with your purpose is a deeply personal and transformative journey. Embrace the journey and be open to exploration as you align your work with your “why”, and move toward experiencing a profound sense of fulfillment and joy.
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