A Novel Way to Discover Life Purpose
A life of purpose–a purpose driven life–the satisfying and fulfilling way to live that we all seek–unfortunately eludes many of us. Lacking a life mission and direction, we chase material goods, money, and power, yet yearn for the satisfaction and fulfillment of living a life of meaning, a life of internal reward and satisfaction.
We ask, “who am I?”, “why am I here?”, and “what is my life all about?” We look for answers that give us direction and knowledge that provides a life plan.
We’re advised to answer the “what do I want?” question, but get confused by the multitude of material wants that marketeers bombard on our consciousness each and every day.
The following approach may seem too morbid for some, but if I could fast forward to my death (hopefully a very long fast forward) and if I could then have awareness and understanding of the legacy I leave behind at my death, it seems this would provide me with clarity of purpose and the foundation of a life plan .
How might I feel if my eulogy is filled with empty platitudes? What if the private thoughts and whispered conversations I overhear leave me embarrassed, humiliated, and deeply saddened at the empty residue of my life?
Instead of just hoping for the best, what if I write my own eulogy, craft my own legacy, and, therefore, influence the honest, innermost thoughts of those I leave behind? And then what if I live my life in such a way that these things are likely end results?
Of course, I have no control over other’s thoughts and perceptions of me. But if I live my life intentionally in such a way that what I want to leave behind is more likely to occur then at the least I am living with a plan, living with purpose and direction.
Executing this strategy (no pun intended) might look like the following:
I envision my loved ones at my funeral and “overhear” their conversations and inner-most thoughts. I hear them say, “He loved me completely and gave me the freedom and support to follow my own dreams. He always encouraged me and believed in me. Though I’ll miss him terribly, I know his spirit, his values, and his love will always be with me.”
Is this what I want? Yes! Would I feel a sense of purpose and direction by living up to this standard? Again, a resounding yes!
To reinforce this facet of my life purpose I set a life goal using the SAFE methodology described in Creative Goal Setting. I can also develop a daily affirmation or prayer reinforcing and reminding me to live my life at this standard.
The affirmation may go something like this: I love my loved-ones unconditionally, regularly reinforcing with my words and actions that I always love and respect them, no matter what they may do. I encourage and support their lives and their decisions, and I’m always there for them, whether their needs are for advice, conversation, or companionship.
If life purpose is your quest, start today with the end in mind. Write your eulogy.
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