What Does it Mean to be Purpose-Driven?
"To live is to choose. But to choose well, you must know who you are and what you stand for, where you want to go, and why you want to get there." – Kofi Annan
We all have a purpose in life. It's what gives our lives meaning and direction. When we live a purpose-driven life, we feel more fulfilled and satisfied, and data tells us we are likely to live longer. We're also more likely to be happy and successful.
But how do we find our purpose? And how do we live a purpose-driven life?
In this series of articles, we'll explore these questions and offer tips on leading a more purpose-driven life at home and work.
What is a Purpose-Driven Life?
Being purpose-driven or living a life of purpose means different things to different people. It generally means living your life with a clear sense of direction, guided by a deep understanding of your core values, passions, and a sense of meaning or mission. It means you have an aim you are pursuing and goals to get there. When you are purpose-driven, your actions, decisions, and plans are aligned with your broader purpose or overarching reason for being. It's a meaningful, fulfilling life that makes a difference.
Much of my coaching work is helping my clients discover what they want to accomplish and who they want to be. Often, we start with a list of what they want to do. It's easy to quickly assemble a to-do list or a list of things we want.
Yet some of my most profound coaching work focuses on how and who my clients want to be. In other words, what they want to be known for, how they want to feel in a given situation, and how they want to live and honor their values. Reflecting and determining how they want to be is often more impactful than completing a to-do list.
What does a purpose-driven life look like?
Researchers have found that when asked what gives people a sense of purpose in their lives, they list Helping others, Using their talents, respecting the environment, family, and friends, fully utilizing their talents and skills, community, and continuous learning. Living a life of purpose is about quality of life.
Here are some key characteristics of being purpose-driven:
Clarity of Purpose: Having a clear and defined purpose that serves as a guiding force in your life. It provides a sense of direction and meaning to your actions and choices.
Alignment with Values: Living in alignment with your core values and principles. Your purpose is rooted in what you deeply believe in and what matters most to you.
Passion and Motivation: Feeling a deep love and motivation for what you do. Your purpose drives intrinsic motivation, fueling your commitment and enthusiasm. It's more than what you are good at; it's about what you stand for and are committed to.
Meaningful Goals: Setting goals and pursuing meaningful and significant endeavors for you. Your purpose influences your goals, ensuring they align with your greater purpose.
Service and Contribution: Desire to make a positive impact and contribute to something larger than yourself. Your purpose often involves serving others or a cause that benefits the greater good.
Resilience and Persistence: Being driven by your purpose helps you navigate challenges, setbacks, and obstacles with resilience and persistence. Your sense of purpose provides the motivation to persevere and overcome difficulties.
Authenticity and Integrity: Living authentically and in alignment with your purpose. Your actions and choices reflect your true self and are consistent with your purpose and values.
Continuous Growth and Learning: Being purpose-driven entails a commitment to personal growth, development, and lifelong learning. You seek opportunities to expand your knowledge and skills to serve your purpose.
Impact and Legacy: Striving to create a lasting impact and leave a positive legacy. Your purpose extends beyond the present moment and inspires you to make a difference that endures.
Sense of Fulfillment: Being purpose-driven brings a deep sense of fulfillment and satisfaction. Knowing that you are aligned with your higher purpose allows you to live a meaningful and purposeful life.
Purpose-driven means living intentionally, guided by a purpose that gives your life direction, meaning, and fulfillment. It is about aligning your actions, goals, and values with your broader purpose to create a meaningful impact on yourself and the world around you.
Here are sour journal prompts you can ask yourself as you reflect on your purpose in life:
What are my passions?
What do I want to achieve in my lifetime?
How do I want to make a difference in the world?
What kind of legacy do I want to leave behind?
Keep an eye on our blog for part two! Curious about how working with me can beneficial? Click here to book a free call
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