I want you to remember one thing: if you’re not pursuing your purpose, you’re setting yourself up to wander aimlessly.
Early in my career, I had no idea what I wanted to be or do. My first job was as an entry-level government health and safety inspector. Then, I worked as an industrial hygienist in the mining industry before an opportunity led me to academia.
I bounced around, trying different things. I had no concrete vision of who I wanted to be, what I wanted to do, or what I wanted to achieve.
And although I enjoyed the learning that came with each of these roles, I felt like there was more out there waiting for me.
But then, I came across a quote that changed everything:
“Life is never made unbearable by circumstances, but only by lack of meaning and purpose.”
– Viktor E. Frankl
This quote resonated deeply with me. It made me realize that without a sense of meaning and purpose, no amount of career success or job changes could truly satisfy me. It was time for a shift in how I approached my career and my life.
Here are 10 lessons I’ve learned on the journey to finding and embracing meaning and purpose:
1. Identify Your Core Values
Understanding what truly matters to you is the first step toward finding meaning. Reflect on your core values and passions, and let them guide your decisions and actions.
2. Connect Your Work to a Greater Purpose
Find ways to link your daily tasks to a larger purpose. This connection makes your work feel more significant and helps you stay motivated through challenges.
3. Seek Fulfillment, Not Just Success
Focus on what brings you genuine satisfaction rather than just achieving conventional markers of success. Fulfillment comes from aligning your work with your values and goals.
4. Reflect on Your Impact
Consider the impact of your work on others and the world. Understanding how your efforts contribute to a greater good can enhance your sense of purpose and motivation.
5. Embrace Change
Sometimes, finding meaning and purpose requires exploring new paths. Be open to change and new opportunities that align with your evolving understanding of what is meaningful to you.
6. Cultivate a Growth Mindset
View challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. This mindset helps you find purpose in overcoming difficulties and learning from experiences.
7. Build Meaningful Relationships
Surround yourself with people who share your values and goals. Meaningful relationships provide support, inspiration, and a sense of community that reinforces your purpose.
8. Practice Self-Reflection
Regularly take time to reflect on your experiences, achievements, and challenges. This practice helps you stay connected to your sense of meaning and adjust as needed.
9. Celebrate Your Journey
Recognize and celebrate milestones along the way. Celebrating your progress reinforces your sense of purpose and motivates you to continue pursuing your goals.
10. Find Balance
Ensure that your pursuit of meaning and purpose is balanced with self-care and well-being. A fulfilling life is one where your purpose aligns with your overall health and happiness.
Ready to Explore Your Own Sense of Meaning?
I’ve been writing about meaning and purpose on LinkedIn. I hope you’ve enjoyed reading some of my posts and articles. In case you haven’t, here are some links to posts that you might enjoy:
Embrace the journey of finding your own meaning and purpose. It’s a path worth pursuing.
Until Next Week,
Megan
