Finding Purpose In Your Life
Many of us want our lives to have meaning and purpose. By “purpose,” I simply mean knowing the whys of our actions and pursuits. According to a Deloitte Millennial Survey, 6 in 10 respondents said “sense of purpose” is part of the reason they chose their current employer.
This sounds very philosophical and worthwhile. But if you look underneath the pursuit of purpose, you may be surprised at what you find.
You may find apathy. Why? Because many of us are seeking out purpose and not finding it. Jobs aren’t meeting expectations, relationships aren’t what they’re supposed to be, all resulting in more stress.
Finding purpose sounds, well… so purposeful.
Unfortunately, too many people become stuck because they are waiting for that perfect job, that perfect career that will fill them to the brim with meaning and purpose.
Before I entered the counseling profession, I struggled with the monotony of a 9-5 job. Purpose and meaning felt miles away from the daily grind. During this season of boredom, I had an "aha" moment. I realized that a degree isn't a necessity for helping others. Sure, I couldn't help in a professional manner. But I could listen empathetically. I could offer a word of encouragement or a prayer. After this realization, I didn't love my job more than before. What I found was more purpose in my life because I could help others right where I was.
Instead of waiting for this mythological unicorn to whisk you off your feet and take you to the land of purpose, you can change your perspective and find meaning in what you are doing right now.
Are you sitting in a cubicle staring at an uninspiring, blank wall right now? Challenge yourself to find something relevant and meaningful at this moment. Maybe it’s talking to a coworker about your faith. Maybe it’s saying a prayer for the lady down the aisle who is clearly struggling.
Are you washing another sink full of dishes or folding the same clothes from last week right now? Find a new perspective that will allow you to find meaning in the mundane.
Are you sitting in class right now, listening to another boring lecture about a subject you don’t really care about? If so, wake up (and read this later)! The information presented before you may just come in handy in the future.
You can find meaning and purpose right now, this very second. You don’t have to wait for the perfect job, relationship, or opportunity. If this is your expectation, I’m sorry to say you may be waiting your entire life.
Jesus is our only source of perfection. Everything else is going to fall short. If you are waiting for perfection, you are going to feel like a failure.
Finding meaning and purpose doesn’t mean that your life becomes filled of Instagram-worthy moments. You are likely going to do a lot of things that you don’t like, a lot of things that are boring, and a lot of things that you aren’t even good at. Don’t resist these awkward, dull, and uncomfortable times.
I’d love to hear from you, how are you finding meaning and purpose today?
Blessings to you,
Melissa