For some, the idea of identifying their life purpose can seem daunting. In this video, Author and Executive Coach Richard Leider talks about the finding your purpose. He has interviewed many people at the end of their lives. Here are the three main themes that he’s heard people say they wished that they had done more of when living:
1. Spent more time pausing and reflecting
2. Been more courageous and taken more risks
3. Understood their life purpose; they want their life to matter
Understanding our life purpose can bring more meaning and fulfillment to our everyday lives. If you are struggling to make sense of your own life purpose, here are some questions that can provoke introspection and provide insight:
- What principles guide my decisions and actions? (values)
- What activities or subjects excite me or give me energy? (passions)
- In what areas do I excel without much effort? (strengths)
- What challenges have shaped me? (struggles)
- What or who inspires me and why? (role models)
- What do I want to be remembered for? (legacy)
- What gives my life meaning and fulfillment? (meaning)
Take a look at the answers to the above questions in totality. What is clear to you as you look at these answers? What are the common threads or themes that inform your purpose?
Whether you define your life purpose with a “big P” for purpose (ex: eliminating poverty) or a “little p” (ex: make someone smile today), remember that there are 1,440 seconds in each day to make a difference in the lives of others.