There is so much information out there about finding purpose and how important purpose can be. I have been consuming as much information as possible on the processes of not only identifying my purpose but also guiding others into identifying theirs.
Having a purpose is important in staying content in life. But it is quite tough to find one’s purpose.
The struggle here is very real. How do I figure out what my purpose is? I used to be very envious of individuals who seemed to have it all figured out and looked like they had it all together. The reality is that things are not always as they seem. Another conversation for another day.
I can truly say that it is a process. There is no age or time limit as to when one should have identified what their purpose is. I think a lot of us are hard on ourselves when we put that pressure to have life figured out by a certain date.
The Japanese concept of Ikigai translates into “life’s worth.” It encompasses doing what you love, doing what you’re good at, doing what the world needs, and doing what you can be rewarded for. As simple as this sounds, it is quite difficult.
After much introspection, I’ve figured out that my ikigai is to teach. I love helping people figure things out and navigate difficult situations and complex questions.
My question to myself is, “Why?” Why does pouring into the cup of others give me fulfillment? This is a much harder internal question to answer than the question of “What is my purpose?”?
I enjoy learning. I love the process of figuring out new ideas, concepts, and new experiences, and when I learn new things, I want to share them with others. People are the ultimate learning resource, and in sharing, I can connect and learn from them in return. It keeps the cycle of my learning in perpetuity. I guess it is safe to say my purpose is a bit self-motivated!
A purposeful life is one that can be enjoyed right now, and by finding what you love and what you are good at, your purpose will shine brightly through.
My question to you is, what is your ikigai?
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