What is Your Life’s Purpose?
When thinking about the importance of crafting your personal Purpose Statement I am reminded of Mark Twain’s quote, “The two most important days in your life are the day you were born, and the day you find out why.”
In my coaching experience, I am constantly reminded of the importance of Purpose. Why is Purpose an important part of wellbeing? Purpose is what gives your life a sense of importance and meaning. Purposeful elements are those that offer depth, direction and provide the answer to Twain’s comment about why you exist.
Crafting and articulating your Purpose provides the foundation for all major decisions you make in your life. Commitments and behaviors that are not aligned with your Purpose are not fulfilling, not sources of satisfaction, and fail to deliver a true sense of accomplishment. Living a life devoid of meaning can have severe consequences. Without an awareness of the deeper meaning of your life, you are likely to struggle and experience burnout.
Many of my coaching clients have experienced various levels of professional success, and in some cases significant wealth, but at a substantial cost to their health and wellbeing. They have recognized that these superficial accomplishments are not true sources of happiness or joy. A recent Gallup workplace survey revealed that the top three components of a desirable job were enjoyable day-to-day work, stable and predictable pay, and a sense of Purpose. This same survey found that only 40% of employees felt they had these things.
HBR’s “Guide to Crafting Your Purpose” identifies three myths related to Purpose:
- Purpose is something we find, or that finds us… In reality, Purpose is something you have to create. Almost any activity can be meaningful if approached properly, considered thoughtfully, and crafted to enhance its Purpose.
- Purpose is a single thing, the one thing that will give your life meaning… In reality, many things can deliver Purpose. You can find meaning in almost everything you do.
- Purpose is stable over time. There is one big thing that should define your life from cradle to grave…Actually, aside from the bedrock principles that guide your life, Purpose changes over time as circumstances and situations change.
A Japanese Purpose-related concept known as ikigai (ee-kee-guy) dates back to the 14th century, which tells that humanity’s search for Purpose has been around for a long time. The concept of ikigai is defined as the intersection between the following four concepts:
- What you love.
- What you are good at.
- What the world needs.
- What you can get paid for.
This context provides a potential starting point for the beginning of your commitment to crafting your Purpose. Additional considerations can include identifying what moves you emotionally and determining what gives you meaning.
The good news is that there are many approaches and practices that can help you craft your Purpose. Let me know if I can assist you with your journey and help you discover “why you were born”.
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