I have asked many of my clients in the past, what is your mission in life (life’s purpose), what do you want to contribute to the world? Many seem to be unsure, really not clear about their life’s purpose. This can be stifling. On the other hand, many people are crystal clear about their purpose and what they want to contribute to the world.
Some people, may know their purpose, but just not sure how to attain this purpose; they may think it is unrealistic (how could they attain this at this point in their lives) or maybe sometimes they feel it is undervalued (maybe they will not make enough money). Essentially, ones life activities should always be geared or focused on one’s purpose or what they are passionate about, no matter where you work. Nevertheless, one’s purpose can change at varying times.
Some people may ask, what does ones life purpose mean? Your life’s purpose (sometimes called your mission) is basically a philosophy about how you want to live; what you are passionate about. Some questions you may ask to determine your life’s purpose are: What do you find exciting in or about the world? What angers you about the world? Purpose is about passion; it defines what you are passionate about doing (from a higher self perspective). Your life’s purpose statement generally includes clues to your personal values such as family, spirituality, friendship, flexibility, and so on.
Your vision statement is basically how you want to carry out your life’s work. What contributions can you make to the world? What part do you play as the active or key contributor? Some questions you may ask to determine your vision are: What are the primary activities you will pursue to accomplish your mission/purpose? What do you most want to do in your personal life that can have a positive impact? Everyone has a specific role to play in contributing to society; these roles are very unique.
Sample Mission Statement
I will seek to balance my career and family as best I can since both are important to me
Sample Vision Statement
I will focus on doing the best that I can do at work and at home; while nurturing my family and at the same time performing effectively and efficiently at work
You can only find true happiness if you in engage in behavior and activities that are related to your purpose in life. Your purpose is not your job; although, it could be activities that you engage in during your spare time or at work with your family, community friends, peers and so on.
Take this time to write one sentence or more about your purpose in life (mission). Then write several sentences about what steps you will take to accomplish your purpose (vision). Make sure this mission/vision reflects what you see yourself doing between now and 2020 and the impact?
This ends step three of the 5 Steps to Self Discovery. The next step is to review strategies’ to self development. If you want more information about the 5 Steps to Self Discovery, purchase our workbook, Discover Yourself: A Personal Development Workbook.
Dr. Jessica is a Psychologist and Empowerment Coach with the Center for Discovery. She helps women experiencing a personal or career transition discover their highest potential, using proven principles and practices of mind, body, and spiritual development.
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Dr. Jessica
© Dr. Jessica, 2010