Purpose

​

Many persons have a wrong idea of what constitutes true happiness. It is not attained through self-gratification but through fidelity to a worthy purpose.

Helen Keller / author, activist, lecturer / 1880–1968

​

After determining what you want and pinpointing specific goals and associated actions, you should have a good sense of purpose. It is purpose that drives us. It fuels the fire of motivation, which in turn can empower us to overcome great challenges and also to accomplish tremendous things. Nietzsche stated, “He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.” It is that why that provides passion, and passion is a key element in the level of success you will attain. To further understand your purpose, which is often multifaceted, identify the roles you play. While you ponder those roles, you can also determine whether you want to change them in any way. Within each major role that you play, there are often minor roles worth noting. By pinpointing these roles, you can gain greater clarity, which will allow you to improve your focus and strengthen your resolve. It can also help bolster motivation or even spark new inspiration, both of which are essential for you to reach your goals. Take a moment to create a list of roles that you play in a simple format, such as the following:

​

                Friend: companion, supporter, resource, entertainer

                Parent: provider, protector, teacher, role model, coach, friend

                Sibling: friend, supporter, protector, compatriot

                Spouse: partner, friend, lover, protector, provider

                Consultant: businessperson, problem solver, leader, friend

                Athlete: participant, friend, role model, competitor

                Writer: teacher, educator, messenger, assistant

 

These are just a few examples. You can draw on this list to build your own. You can then reflect on other roles that are possible in life to determine if you would like to modify or add to your list moving ahead. Similarly, you can also consider ways in which you can be more effective in your current roles. If necessary, revisit your goals, and incorporate additional aspects of your purpose and roles that you may not have considered previously. This will help you excel in life. It will not only pave the way to success but also aid with your health and happiness. You’re here now, but you won’t be forever. As such, you might as well make the most of the experience. Explore life with an open mind so that you can learn and evolve. See the humor all around, and enjoy the time you’ve been given. Also remember that we’re all in this together, so strive to understand others and help them when you can. Innate abilities that can help you find your purpose include unselfishness, objectivity, resolve, and vision. Employ those skills regularly, and determine how to leverage them in any new roles that you plan to play in order to enhance your focus and to build motivation.

​