What does living with purpose mean to you?

 Some people may connect living with purpose to being happy, having their day fully occupied with all sorts of events and activities. Others may see it as working hard and playing hard with the wealth they have accumulated. These are just a couple of views; you may have your own view.

In this case, when I refer to living with purpose, it involves your personal life but it goes beyond just you. With this in mind, it is important to realise that no matter how private you may think you are about your life, the truth is your life has a purpose which goes far beyond you as an individual but touches others in your circle of influence, directly or indirectly. 

Do you need to have a purpose to feel you have lived?

Basically, as long as you are breathing you are living. However, the real thought provoking question is – “Are you living the life you believe you should based on your potential and the value you can add to people who come across your path?” So, when you take a moment or two to think and reflect on your life, you might see there is much more you can do.

What is purpose?

The dictionary definition given for purpose refers to “why you do something or why something exists”. Hence, ‘the reason why’ gives a sense of purpose. So when you ask why something was produced or created, you are asking for the purpose, the original intent for it. There is a well known quote that shows the importance of purpose... “When purpose is not known, abuse is inevitable.” – Myles Munroe. Therefore, it is worthwhile to work with purpose.

Another link to purpose is goals. Something that has a purpose should be link to clear goals so it is used effectively to gain the maximum value it can offer. The purpose you attach to a person, an object or service indicates the value you place on it. You may have undervalued someone or something by not considering the original intent, the purpose. You may have even undervalued yourself by not considering your purpose. Here are a few questions you may like to consider:

What gives you a sense of fulfilment?

Where would you like to make a difference in this world?

What are you passionate about?

What moves you to act with compassion?

What brings joy to your heart?

So, if you have a clear answer to one or more of these questions, then what are you doing about it. You may ask “what can I do about it?” Well, there are a few things you can do to start your journey of living with purpose. A good place to begin is to be clear about your own personal life vision and take it forward from there. On the other hand, if you cannot give a clear answer to anyone of these questions, at this point in time, then at least that is something you are now aware of and you could start to think about it and work on it. You should consider what gives your life purpose as each person is a unique individual. Get the right support around you and aim to add value to others by going for your purpose.