When I used to think about “finding purpose”, it felt sort of daunting, and so what do you do when you’re trying to answer life’s big questions? You start a podcast, duh! I started my podcast “Purposely Mimi” back in 2017, to explore what finding purpose meant to people, a topic that confused me, and made my head hurt a bit. We’re made to believe that there must be a point to life, questioning if just being here is enough, all wrapped in an existential icky shell. Does it have to be that deep though – probably not. Purpose can be found through so many different avenues, it can be anything from spirituality, relationships, to finding a meaningful career, there is no wrong answer, since it revolves around what motivates you in YOUR life.
The pursuit of purpose and meaning may seem trivial at times when compared to everyday world problems, but to become a self-actualized person that accepts themselves and uses the gifts that have been bestowed to create a better world, now what can be greater than that!
I did learn a thing or two from those podcast conversations, and STILL learning – here are some nuggets on some lessons so far.
Purpose Does Not Come in a “One Size Fits All” Formula
I was surprised at how many people were unsure of what they were doing with their life, we are all the stars of our own stories, but if we peeked at someone else’s page, you would see that there is no perfect formula – every path is different. Passion projects can sometimes feel like a purpose, while 9-5 jobs may not, and that’s okay, it only needs to make sense to you.
You may feel like some people have more direction, maybe they do, or maybe they don’t – there is no point in comparing yourself, just know that where you are in this moment is where you need to be. So much easier said than done, trust me I get it, but creating that mindset is SO powerful.
Paulo Coelho’s quote from The Alchemist says it best, “And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it”. Although our paths may not look the same, be open to the possibilities, because it takes all kinds to make the world go round.
Don’t Be So Hard on Yourself
Endless overthinking, comparison, negative self-talk, the list goes on and on – why are we so hard on ourselves? It gets you nowhere, although I knew that, realistically I was putting unnecessary stress to have everything figured out, specifically with my career.
I was someone who tried their hand at different careers, everything from finance to event planning, and sometimes that search for career passion, can leave you feeling a bit lost. You start to think, why didn’t I hustle in my 20s, and starting from scratch in my 30s? The insecurities can be overwhelming, STOP IT, it’s a major waste of energy, don’t be so hard on yourself!
Talking it out made me realize I needed to lighten up a bit and be kinder to myself, I’ve always been a bit of a late bloomer and that’s fine, better than fine even. Every guest, whether in their 20s or 50s, were trying their best to figure their life out, and that’s what matters – success is not necessarily measured with a check list.
Be Grateful for What You Have
If you’re basic needs are being met (shelter, food, water,) and you have an income of some sort – you’re doing great! So many people around the world don’t have these things, and sometimes that’s easy to forget when we’re all so obsessed with ourselves, take a moment and be grateful!
Even when your path isn’t so clear, being grateful and showing gratitude for being alive, can instantly make you feel better. Being thankful for what you have, versus focusing on what you don’t have, can have an electric positive effect on your attitude, relationships, and even happiness. Its no wonder gratitude journals are often pitched as practical advice, the impact of intentionally writing down the things you’re grateful for is so powerful in improving your headspace.
If a gratitude journal isn’t your thing, meditating or even taking a moment think of what you’re grateful for on a walk can ground you, especially if you’re surrounded by nature.
Stay Engaged and Get Curious
Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, get a little dirty even, trying to find purpose can be fun! Being aware enough to ask life’s big questions, is a starting point, and looking for those answers can take you on all sorts of adventures resulting in colourful life experiences.
What would you do if you had millions of dollars and didn’t have to worry about the daily financial stresses, what would you put your energy into? These are the clues that can lead us to the answers we’re looking for.
When possible, take time to explore the subjects in life you enjoy, anything that sparks your joy or curiosity is worth investigating. Get out of your comfort zone and shake up your routine, meet new people, travel to a new place, or try a new cuisine – no matter how big or small the challenge, stay curious with your life.
