Let’s talk about the definition of purpose. The way I define purpose is the reason you are on the planet. So what are you on the planet anyway?
To find your purpose, follow these easy steps: 1) Find a large mountain 2) Climb it. 3) Locate the guru in the long flowing white robe 4) Ask him “Master what is my purpose?” 5) Wait for answer 6) Leave mountain immediately and apply! I wish it were that easy. There are many steps in finding your purpose and it requires study, work and some very hard soul searching to determine what you want your life to stand for and be about. Some people are lucky and this happens to them by accident. Most people, however have to work to find it. Here are some ideas and techniques for finding your purpose:
The Gift List- Take out some paper and a pen and find a quiet room or space somewhere. Now write down there all the things you have always been good at all your life. ( now a quick note- this is the time for honesty not modesty- no one will see it anyway) Now the list is done sit and look it over and say to yourself “what picture do I see?” Is there any commonality? trends? Looking at that list lets say it lists riding horses, 4H Club, Caring for turtles, artwork, and training dogs. Maybe the path for you is something in the animal world. Maybe your pupose is to serve the anaimal kingdom on some way.
Q…A Today Get some paper and a pen and go to your favorite quiet room. Ask yourself the following questions: 1 ) Someday when I am older what the heck do I want to have accomplished? Why are those things important to me ? 2) What are 2-3 things that you will regret if you do not do them in your lifetime? 3) Why were you born? Do you think you have specific gifts or talents you were meant to use? Why? 4) Fill in the blank; I was meant to be a ______________________. Why do you think that? 5) What is very important to you in your life? Why?
Ten With No Spin Now you are going to go to your panel of 10 advisors. Your objective is to do a little Q…A with each of them. This exercise also takes a little confidence. Ask each person “what do you think my strengths are? Ask Uncle Benny, your Mom, and close buddy. Ask your personal trainer and a co worker. I am sure your curiosity is wondering “Why?. Well it is actually interesting what other people may see in you that you dont. They may provide a whole new perspective. Now as the answers come in you have to sort and edit and decide which to listen to and which not. One caveat- don’t have negative people do the survey. This information can be a wonderful tool to help discover your purpose.
Shawn Doyle is a high energy Motivational Speaker and author of 10 books. For a free copy of Shawn’s book The 10 Foundations of Motivation, go to http://sldoyle.com.
