What’s the Fuss about Having a Purpose?

“What’s your purpose in life?” If someone has ever asked you that question, did you have an answer? Do you have one now?

People make a lot of fuss about having a purpose. But does it matter if you know why you are here in this body and this lifetime? Does it make a difference if you know your calling or mission—and fulfill it?

I believe your purpose drives your actions and develops your vision of the future. Without purpose, you wander aimlessly rather than moving forward intentionally.

What is a Purpose Anyway?

Purpose seems elusive. Everyone searches for it, but purpose seems difficult to define or discover. To find your purpose, it seems logical to begin with a definition of the word.

Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines purpose as:

• the reason why something is done or used; the aim or intention of something
• the feeling of being determined to do or achieve something
• the aim or goal of a person; what a person is trying to do, become, etc.

So, it’s the reason behind your actions as well as your intentions to act. It’s the will to do, achieve, or become something—like a goal that involves how you want to show up in the world and what you want your life to be about.

What’s the Purpose of a Purpose?

Purpose serves a purpose. It’s your Big Why. It’s the reason you do what you do. And it’s your vision of where you are going and the reasons you want to get there.

When you find meaning in something, you are more likely to pursue that thing, whether it is a particular job, behavior or habit, a cause, or an attitude. Meaning makes it easier to direct your will, mind, and behavior. It helps you attune your actions toward your intentions or goals.

Without purpose, you lack focus and intention. You behave unconsciously.

When you are purposeless, you might not achieve goals, dreams or potential. You could “squander” your gifts, talents, and skills.

Plus, you won’t know who you want to be or what you want to do. With purpose, you move purposefully and consciously toward your vision of the future.

How to Find Your Purpose

No matter how hard you try, you might not “find” your purpose. Some people seem like they are born knowing who they are meant to be and what they are meant to do. Others…no idea.

You can find clues about your purpose, but you must learn to interpret them. For instance, everyone is unique. What makes you unique? What unique skill or talents do you possess? What are you good at? What attracts people to you? The answers to these questions direct you toward your purpose.

Your values also provide clues. What’s important to you? Why? How can you express that?

Of course, you could simply say your purpose lies in expressing your authenticity. Or you might believe your purpose is to feel alive and express aliveness, to teach, to heal, to be present, to connect with God or to fulfill God’s will.

Many people believe we—all humans—share the same purpose: to love and to connect.

You may never find your purpose. That doesn’t mean you don’t have one. You can decide on your purpose. That’s right…define or choose your purpose in life.

Ask yourself: What do I want to give to the world? How do I want to serve? What is important to me?

Use your answers to craft a purpose statement.

And don’t be surprised if your purpose changes over time —or you feel the need to choose a new one. As you change and grow, as your values change, your purpose can change with you.

How to Live “On Purpose”

When you live “on purpose,” your choices are made based upon how they align with your purpose. Everything you do, say or think goes back to your Big Why. You behave authentically from a place of passion, intention, and consciousness. You live into your purpose and toward your vision.

A life lived on purpose is one filled with meaning. It’s how you become the best you can be, living fully and fulfilling your potential.

When you live on purpose, you also have the greatest chance to make an impact—on yourself, others, organizations, and the world.

High performers feel a strong sense of purpose and act upon it. Their purpose gives them clarity and courage. They feel passionate about it, and their enthusiasm attracts others.

Do you know your purpose? If so, share your purpose statement below in a comment.

Photos copyright: netsay / 123RF Stock Photo