7 Tips to help YOU define YOUR true Purpose

Have you ever considered your 'purpose' - the reason WHY you do WHAT you do?

Ok, this may be a deep question to ask, but for many, purpose is THE reason why they exist, and the meaning it gives to their lives.

Having coached and mentored many business owners, senior managers and solopreneurs, one of the main issues I encounter regularly is the loss of purpose...

• This often occurs at a pivotal moment in their career or personal life...
• They may have achieved, or even surpassed, their initial objectives…
• Changes in personal relationships or family dynamics are common...
  (A phrase I frequently hear is ‘our children have flown the nest’)
• This can lead to feelings of being lost, confused, disheartened, isolated, and sometimes apprehensive about what lies ahead…
• Merely 'existing' rather than truly 'living'.

Purpose is an essential human need that significantly influences our identity - impacting our personal lives, our careers, and our businesses.

It’s a fundamental human need that plays a crucial role in shaping who we are - our lives, our work and businesses.

And, it’s a powerful motivator that drives us to pursue our dreams and goals, and it gives us a sense of direction in life.

However…

It isn’t something we stumble upon; it’s something we actively construct.

It's a journey of introspection and exploration, requiring us to contemplate our values, passions, and strengths.

If this resonates with you and you're currently struggling to find your true purpose, here’s my 7 tips to help YOU define your true purpose:

1. Reflect on your values:
   
   

   Our values are at the heart of what we do – they dictate, often subconsciously, how we communicate and interact with other people – in our work and personal lives.
   
   So, start by taking some time to think about what is important to you.
   
   What are your core values, and how do they influence your decisions and actions?
   
   Your purpose should align with your values and be a reflection of who you are.
   
   

2. Identify your passions:

   
   What are you passionate about?
   
   What are the things in life which you are most interested in and look to pursue at every available opportunity? 
   
   Your purpose should be something that excites and inspires you.
   
   

3. Assess your strengths:

   
   What are your natural talents and abilities?
   
   What are you good at, and what do others appreciate about you?
   
   One of my favourite quotes sums this up nicely:
   “Growth begins when we begin to accept our weaknesses.” Jean Vanier.
   
   Spending too much time worrying about those unreachable goals will hold you back - focus on your strengths instead!
   
   Your purpose should leverage your strengths and help you to grow and develop.
   
   

4. Look for patterns:

   
   Reflect on your past experiences and look for patterns or themes that emerge.
   
   What activities or experiences have brought you the most joy and fulfilment?
   
   Your purpose may be connected to these experiences.
   
   

5. Experiment and explore:

   
   Don't be afraid to try new things and explore different paths.
   
   Life is not as clear cut as we would like it – nor can we control what’s ahead, however much planning and preparation we make beforehand.
   
   Your purpose may not be obvious at first, but through experimentation and exploration, you may discover something that truly resonates with you.
   
   

6. Set realistic goals:

   
   Once you have identified your purpose, set goals that align with it.
   
   Your purpose should be the driving force behind your goals and actions.
   
   Create a plan that will help you to achieve your goals and take action towards them.
   
   

7. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals:

   
   This has really worked for me!
   
   Seek out people who share your values and passions.
   
   Connect with them, learn from them, feed off their enthusiasm and experience, and collaborate with them.
   
   Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals can help you to stay motivated and inspired on your journey towards purpose.

Purpose is a critical component of a fulfilling life and a successful business.

Finding your purpose is a process of self-discovery and exploration that requires reflection, experimentation - and action!

Need help?

If this article resonates with you and you would like to talk more about defining your true purpose, or personal brand strategy - just email: simon@marketingskillsacademy.co.uk - and let's arrange to have an informal chat?