GET HAPPY NOW
By Arnette Travis, Author/Activist/Advocate, RLACEI Contributing Author
“What is my purpose in life?” I asked the void.
“What if I told you that you fulfilled it when you took an extra hour to talk to that kid about his life?” said the voice. “Or when you paid for that young couple in the restaurant? Or when you saved that dog in traffic? Or when you tied your father’s shoes for him? Your problem is that you equate your purpose with goal-based achievement. The Universe isn’t interested in your achievements … just your heart. When you choose to act out of kindness, compassion and love, you are already aligned with your true purpose. No need to look any further.” — Author Unknown
Don’t make the mistake of believing that your purpose has to be a big thing. But it is a thing. A thing that wakes us up each day. A thing that we do that puts a smile on our face, lifts our spirit and touches our heart. A thing that makes us happy.
I
t’s been said that the two most important days of life are the day we’re born, and the day we discover why. The first day is limited to an awareness of only our basic needs for survival – primarily food and comfort. The second day is another matter entirely and can take years to discover, as our “why” is not considered necessary to our survival and therefore is easily classified a “want,” not a need.
Nonetheless, the quest to determine our purpose is a worthwhile undertaking. Knowing our purpose is the key to self-identity and clarifies our place in the world. When we reflect on what motivates us to make things happen, our intention becomes clearer. From there, we can follow a course of action without fear, and even take smart risks relative to what matters most to us. Intention is a powerful tool that we can use to manifest our purpose and answer the question: What is life asking of me?
The Power of Purpose
According to “The Power of Purpose” author Richard Leider: “Purpose begins with believing that you have one. …Purpose is a mindset, a choice to live a life that matters.” Leider emphasizes and describes purpose as “compassion in action,” and emphasizes that “mattering always matters, from cradle to grave.”
Identifying Your Purpose
To identify your purpose, use this simple equation: G + P + V = C. Are you applying your gifts (G) to things you are passionate (P) about in a way that recognizes your values (V)? If you are, then you have discovered your calling (C) – your purpose.
Remember
Purpose is a practice.
Purpose is an aim outside of yourself.
Purpose is not a luxury.
Purpose manifests having, doing, being, growing, giving.
