The meaning of existence in some big, abstract, cosmic sense isn't all there is to it. It's all about figuring out what your life's purpose is. And it's not about chasing a carrot through life in order to get at some distant goal. Every step of the trip should be filled with a sense of purpose.
Why are you bothering?
What if you could just get rid of everything?
the discontent that pervades your day-to-day life?
the sense that you're doing a job that's worthless and thankless?
Are you worried that you're not making a difference in the world?
Have you ever had the nagging thought that there must be more to life than what you're experiencing right now?
Operationalize your life purpose into all you do is the cure to all of the above. It gives you a useful compass to help you find your way in life. Knowing your life purpose will assist you to determine which way to travel whether you're trying to move into a new job or find a fulfilling relationship.
Discovering your life purpose may bring new levels of excitement and passion to your life as it is today if you merely have a nagging sensation that there must be something more in life, but you don't feel the need to change your career or overhaul your relationships. It may assist you in determining why you enjoy the things you do, as well as what you can do to obtain even more of the nice items.
Whatever group you fit into, the first recommendation I have for you to help you with your purpose is to remember that it is not about what you do, but rather who you are while doing it.
Doing vs. Being
What you do for a job is not your life purpose. Or even if you do anything at all. Your life's meaning isn't dependent on a single activity. It's not about what you're doing. It's all about being. It's all about the "you" who appear in everything that you do.
Life gives us hints. So, anything you do in life—whether it's your career, hobbies, or everyday activities—is the beginning point for discovering your life's meaning. The first step in determining your life purpose is to go under the surface of your activities and examine what is going on inside each one. Examine the ones that make you feel the most at ease, joyful, fulfilled, passionate, and meaningful in particular. Begin by asking yourself the following questions:
What do you do when you lose track of time?
What do all of your favorite activities have in common?
When you participate in these activities, how do you feel?
What is next?
As you answer these questions, make a list of the top five descriptions or sensations that spring to mind. In whatever you do, this collection of words will tap into the essence of who you are. Don't try to be a perfectionist. Begin to consider how you may incorporate more of those sensations into your life. Use that list of words to guide you in making decisions that are in line with your core throughout the day. You feel more enjoyment, vitality, and success when you can align your outer activities with who you know you are at your core. You're fulfilling your life's mission.
