The Myth of Finding Your Purpose
A common myth is that you need to find your purpose.
This myth suggests that purpose is something elusive you must search for, as if it’s hidden and only accessible to a few. It’s reinforced by self-help books and motivational talks that promise a magical “aha” moment when your purpose will reveal itself. Many feel pressured to define their purpose as a singular, monumental goal, which can lead to frustration when they don’t find it.
But this belief is fundamentally wrong.
Debunking the Myth
Your purpose isn’t something you find; it’s something you create by being useful to others. I once believed I had to discover my purpose through a grand revelation. However, it was through engaging with my colleagues and actively contributing that I began to feel a sense of purpose. I remember helping a teammate with a challenging project. As we collaborated, I realized that my skills in communication and problem-solving were valuable—not just to me, but to the whole team. This experience shifted my perspective and showed me that purpose is cultivated through action, not discovery.
Believing that purpose must be found can lead to stagnation. When people fixate on searching for a singular purpose, they often miss opportunities to contribute and grow in meaningful ways.
What You Should Be Doing Instead
Instead of searching for purpose, focus on how you can be useful to others. Start by identifying your strengths and how they can benefit those around you.
Here’s how to get started:
Reflect on Your Skills: If you're struggling to identify your strengths, ask three people who know you well, “What do you think I’m really good at?” Their insights can help you recognize your unique contributions.
Engage with Your Community: Once you’ve identified your skills, reach out to colleagues with specific offers of help. For example, if you’re good at data analysis, say, “Hi [Name], I noticed you’re working on [X]. I’d love to help you analyze the data—let me know if you’d like my support!” This shows your initiative and willingness to contribute.
Seek Feedback: After helping someone, ask, “How did my support help you?” This not only validates your contributions but also provides guidance on how you can improve.
Warmups:
Tip #1: Start Small. Offer help on a small task to build confidence. For instance, volunteer to proofread something for someone.
Tip #2: Network Actively. Join an online group. Introduce yourself with, “Hi, I’m [Your Name]. I’m interested in [specific topic] and would love to connect with others passionate about it.”
Tip #3: Keep a Journal. Document your experiences and how you’ve helped others. This reinforces your sense of purpose and provides valuable stories for interviews, showcasing your skills and contributions.
Remember, those who believe they must find their purpose often feel lost and unfulfilled. But there’s a better way. By focusing on how you can be useful, you’ll cultivate a sense of purpose and enrich your life and the lives of those around you.
