It became popular in the 1960s for people to want to “find themselves.” Modern spiritual teachers ask us to “go within” to seek our higher selves, and we go on retreats or vision quests to find our life purpose.
While there is still breath in your lungs there is purpose for your life. Your purpose may vary in life but while you are here, you matter. You were designed to be exactly as you are. Embrace your true self and start living your life. Be honest and real with yourself. Don’t spend your life striving to become someone you were never created to be. Beauty comes in recognizing who you are and being completely content with the beauty of your unique self.
Recognizing the Impact You Already Make
Surely you have seen the old movie, “I t’s a Wonderful Life,” in which George Bailey is presented with a vision of what life would be like for his circle of family and friends if he had not existed. It can be an interesting exercise to “vision” that for our own lives.
Try a mini-life review for yourself. Think of all the people you have impacted every day of your life. Look at each person you have encountered – did you smile at the grocery clerk when she was having a bad day? Did you offer advice to a friend that changed their life? Did your choice of career or work bring a blessing to those you serve? Think of the animals, the plants, the structures and materials, the environment that you have touched.
- With whom did you interact today? Even an eye-to-eye glance is an interaction, an energy exchange.
- Has your choice of work affected someone for the better?
- Did you nurture an animal or a garden recently?
- Of all the things you do, big and small, what gives you the most joy?
- When do people tell you, “Gosh, you’re so good at that!”
When you review your life with these kinds of questions in mind, you will uncover a pattern, a thread running through the various events and relationships. That thread, that constant pleasure, that is your soul purpose.
Letting Go of the Need to Justify
Don’t get caught up with “why” you exist. Simply be and embrace who you are and acknowledge your very existence likely makes this world a little better, at least for someone. If you’re seeking clarity and direction, life coaching can support you in reconnecting with your purpose and living with greater alignment.