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What's Your Purpose? 🌟
I vividly recall the moment during a coach training session when I was asked, "What's your purpose?" My mind went blank, and I felt a sudden pressure to conjure up something profound and grand. But as I journeyed further into my personal and professional life, I began to realise that purpose doesn't always have to be something monumental. In fact, it can be beautifully simple. Understanding my purpose has profoundly changed both my life and work, bringing clarity and meaning to everything I do. 🌟
In my experience working with leaders, founders, and professionals across various industries, I've noticed that "purpose" and "values" are terms often used interchangeably. While they are indeed interconnected, it's important to recognise that they are distinct concepts, each playing a unique role in shaping our lives.
Understanding Purpose and Values
Purpose is the reason behind our actions. It’s that deeper motivation that drives us to do what we do. Purpose is often tied to our values, long-term goals, mission, and passion. For instance, a leader’s purpose might be to innovate or create social impact. 🌱 A doctor's purpose might be to heal and improve the quality of life for others. 💉 Regardless of the field, purpose acts as a guiding star, offering direction and meaning. It’s deeply personal, often tied to our core beliefs, and can be shaped by our experiences, aspirations, and the impact we wish to make in the world.
Values, on the other hand, are the principles and beliefs that shape our behaviour and decisions. They answer fundamental questions like, “What is important to you in life?” or “What are your non-negotiables?” Values serve as our moral compass, guiding us through everyday interactions and choices. 🧭 For example, someone might value integrity, which influences how they conduct business, or they might value family, which shapes how they balance work and personal life.
While purpose is the "why" behind our actions, values are the "how." They work hand in hand, with values providing the framework within which our purpose is realised.
The Impact of Knowing Your Purpose and Values
Whether you are a founder scaling up your business, a leader stepping into a new role, or someone undergoing a career transition, having a clear understanding of your purpose and values can be a game changer. It provides a sense of direction and a foundation upon which you can build your personal and professional life.
Personally, discovering my purpose and aligning it with my values has given me clarity and a sense of fulfilment. It has become my north star, guiding me in every role I take on—be it as a mother, a business owner, a friend, or a coach. 🌱 This alignment between purpose and values ensures that my actions are not only meaningful but also authentic, leading to a life that feels both purposeful and true to who I am.
Reflecting on Your Own Purpose and Values
So, what is your purpose? 🌟 How do your values shape it? These are not questions to be answered lightly, nor are they ones that have to be answered immediately. Identifying and understanding your purpose and values requires introspection and self-discovery. It’s a journey, not a destination.
For those starting out on this path, I highly recommend checking out Simon Sinek’s famous TED Talk, “Start with Why.” 📺 It’s a fantastic resource that can inspire you to begin thinking about your own purpose in a new and more profound way.
Practical Steps to Discover Your Purpose
If you're ready to delve deeper into understanding your purpose, here are a few practical steps to get you started:
Reflect on Past Experiences: Look back at moments in your life when you felt most fulfilled or proud. What were you doing? Who were you with? What values were you honouring in those moments?
Identify Your Core Values: Consider what principles guide your decisions. Are there specific beliefs that are non-negotiable for you? Write them down and reflect on how they influence your daily life.
Explore Your Passions: What activities or topics light you up? Your passions can often lead you to discover your deeper purpose.
Ask "Why?": For every goal or ambition you have, ask yourself why it's important to you. Keep asking "why" until you reach the core reason—this often reveals your purpose.
Seek Feedback: Sometimes others see our purpose and values more clearly than we do. Ask trusted friends, family, or colleagues what they believe drives you and what they see as your core values.
Remember, discovering your purpose is a process that takes time. Be patient with yourself and open to what you may uncover.
I'd love to hear your thoughts on this topic! Feel free to add a comment and share your experiences or questions. Until then, keep growing, keep questioning, and keep striving towards your purpose. 🌟
And if you’re ready to embark on this journey of self-discovery and would like some guidance along the way, feel free to reach out. I’m here to support you as you navigate this transformative process. 🌱
Further Reading Suggestions:
"Man's Search for Meaning" by Viktor E. Frankl: A profound exploration of purpose and meaning in life.
"The Power of Now" by Eckhart Tolle: This book delves into mindfulness and being present, which can help you connect more deeply with your purpose.
"Dare to Lead" by Brené Brown: A great read for leaders seeking to align their purpose with their values in leadership roles.
#Purpose #Values #SelfDiscovery #Leadership #LeadershipwithIntent #PersonalGrowth #Coaching #Introspection #Transformation #KBCcoaching
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