Uncovering Your True Purpose: A Guide to Discovering Your Calling
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Chapter 1: Understanding Your Calling
Throughout life, we encounter individuals who seem to have naturally found their niche, whether as accomplished athletes, artists, entrepreneurs, or simply individuals thriving in their chosen paths. However, for most people, discovering their true calling isn’t as straightforward. In reality, many may find their purpose serendipitously, often while engaged in various activities.
Consider the example of a close friend of mine who excels in public relations. Remarkably, she stumbled upon this passion after dedicating nearly 30 years to other professions. She always had a knack for providing comfort during crises, offering sage advice, or transforming uncomfortable situations into manageable ones. Despite her diverse career as a marketing rep, senior advertiser, and campaign manager, it wasn't until she casually applied for a public relations job that she discovered her true talent. It’s a testament to the idea that sometimes our best attributes emerge unexpectedly.
I ponder whether many individuals discover their calling more by chance than through deliberate exploration. Research suggests that immersing ourselves in various fields may be essential for identifying what truly resonates. I often share with my clients eight effective strategies to uncover what they should genuinely pursue in life. Typically, one of these approaches leads to a profound realization about their life's focus.
Here are those eight strategies to find your calling:
Section 1.1: Identify Your Dislikes
Understanding what you are passionate about often starts with recognizing what you cannot stand. For instance, I have a strong aversion to insects, so any career involving them would be a poor fit. If outdoor activities, swimming, or hot climates don’t appeal to you, then lifeguarding or leading hikes might not be your calling either. Knowing what you dislike can be as crucial as identifying your interests.
Section 1.2: Embrace New Opportunities
Keeping yourself open to new experiences is vital. For instance, I took a writing class in my late twenties that opened up entirely new avenues for me. Reflect on missed opportunities; perhaps there were chances you turned down that could have changed your path.
Subsection 1.2.1: Listen to Feedback
Pay attention to what others say about your strengths. If people frequently praise your cooking or your home decor, these might be hints about potential paths you could explore.
Section 1.3: Seek Inspiration from Others
Find a mentor or someone whose life you admire. Spending time with them or simply observing how they navigate their lives can reveal insights about your own calling. Often, it’s not just the profession but the mindset that shapes our path.
Section 1.4: Keep a Joy List
Maintain a record of activities that bring you joy or fulfillment. This isn’t just about leisure; it can include meaningful experiences. A friend of mine was profoundly affected after a mission trip, prompting her to start an organization to help entrepreneurs in developing countries.
Section 1.5: Cultivate Curiosity
Curiosity can be a powerful guide. One of my clients had a long-standing fascination with makeup, which eventually led her to a career in the film industry. Never underestimate the potential of your childhood interests.
Section 1.6: Defy Expectations
Often, we hold back from pursuing our true passions due to the expectations of family or society. This can lead to regrets about what could have been. Remember, your happiness should not hinge on others’ desires for you.
Chapter 2: Vision and Awareness
The first video, "HOW to know what you want to do in life | choose your career," offers insights and guidance on identifying your career path.
The second video, "How To Figure Out What To Do With Your Life," provides practical advice on navigating life choices and discovering your true calling.
Section 2.1: Recognize Recurring Interests
Reflect on what consistently draws your attention. For instance, I've always enjoyed writing, which, while not necessarily aiming for bestselling status, remains an integral part of my life. What activities or interests keep resurfacing in your thoughts?
Section 2.2: Stay Present
While it sounds simplistic, focusing too hard on finding your calling can lead to missing opportunities right in front of you. Sometimes, what you seek is already part of your life.
Ultimately, discovering your calling doesn’t require a monumental revelation. Instead, it’s about feeling content in your pursuits. Remember, finding your purpose can happen at any stage in life, and it's perfectly acceptable to have multiple callings.
Have you identified your life's purpose? How did you come to that realization?
Kathy Brunner offers coaching for aspiring entrepreneurs. If you’re a business owner or looking to become one, explore how My Business Concierge can assist you.