Each one of our lives is unique and special. There are things you are good at, enjoy, and the world needs. At this intersection point lies your purpose.

Many people shy away from “purpose”. It seems too ominous to accept, too grandiose to achieve, and too esoteric to grasp. It doesn’t need to be so overwhelming! It’s simply the thing(s) you were created to do that also help you feel happy and fulfilled. You have a gift that will serve others.

what does it mean to live with purpose?

There are many thoughts about what it means to live with purpose.

The Tiny Buddah says our purpose is about giving, not getting.
Another author says purpose means admitting what you know deep within yourself that really matters.
Another source describes purpose as helping others and will always include positive behaviors.
Many sources site purpose as an alignment with our values.
Viktor Frankl, a holocaust survivor, surmised that our dominant driving force is to find meaning and purpose in life. He found this in his struggle to survive. This purpose is what can give us strength to carry on through difficult changes, transitions, relationships, and activities.

Some equate purpose with success, but I disagree. The “success” is secondary to our purpose. Driven by talent, passion, and a need, we can live with purpose simply knowing this is what we were meant to do. An inspirational example of this is Father Greg Boyle. He has worked with gang members in Los Angeles for decades, and has felt many disappointments alongside some successes.

My definition includes many of these sentiments. In my opinion, purpose means a clear resolve of where you are going. An unwavering “why” that motivates your direction. Instead of wanting to do “all things”, a person with purpose knows just as much what they will NOT do as what they WILL do. It includes doing the best you can with the skills you have.

It’s also my belief that life will keep nudging you towards your purpose even if you don’t want it to.

why is living with pupose a good habit?

Living with purpose gives meaning and fulfillment to your life.

Living with purpose will serve the world. You don’t have to save the world from hunger to have a purpose! Yours may be organizing, parenting, fixing cars, or creating art. Whatever it is you are good at, the world needs, and you enjoy is where you will find it.

Living with purpose is the easiest way to live! You will be happier and make those around you happy too.

So how will you find your purpose?

how do you get started?

Here are some ways to begin to live with purpose:

Help others
Work in community
Participate in positive behaviors
Align your life with your values
Use your strengths
Do something you are passionate about
Let go of fear
Assess your skills and use them
Do a vision board
Talk to a Life Coach

You will know you are living with purpose when uncertainty is no longer a stumbling block. You will live outside your current circumstances and in the hope formed by your purposeful intention.