When it is all said and done, moving through life without a purpose can become draining and very defeating. Of course it’s possible to do, but would you rather simply exist or really live life? There is a huge difference, and that difference begins with living out your purpose.

If you are anything like me, finding that purpose may not come so easy. Life happens, and along the way many distractions arise that may keep you from discovering what your true purpose in life is. Fortunately, there are a few ways to reconnect with yourself to find that purpose, so that eventually you are living life and no longer simply existing.

REACH BACK INTO YOUR CHILDHOOD

Photo: Andre Hunter

Think about who you were before any limitations were placed upon you. Reflect on the time you were your most pure and creative. What were some of your favorite things to do? What were you naturally drawn to do or to be? Find that. Hold onto that. Reintroduce that joy back into your life.

This can look like many different things, for example, were you the child who wanted to be the teacher when playing school or the mother when playing house? Were you the one who comforted your friends when they needed it? If so, it’s possible that your purpose is to care for others. Were you the child who loved to build buildings more than anything? Your purpose may be providing security to people by building homes or other buildings.

Remember that this initial process requires a lot of deep self-reflection. The answer may not be obvious and may take some time to reveal itself, and that is okay.

FREE UP YOUR SPACE

Photo: iam Se7en

I get it… you are busy! You have little time for new hobbies or interests. So what you have to do then, is make some room. Remove anything that does not truly elevate you as a person. If you are not sure what should stay and what should go, listen to your inner voice. Start by asking yourself some questions, such as:

Does this add value to my life?
Does this leave me feeling full?

If the answer is “no” to these questions, then free yourself up to find things that are a resounding “yes.” Make some room for things that do feed your soul. That feeling of fulfillment is no coincidence and should never be ignored; it is the feeling of purpose!

JUST DO IT

Photo: Lucaxx Freire

Little by little, incorporate the things you feel give your life meaning. Start off small so that there are no excuses. It has been said that it takes 21 days to form a habit, so make sure that habit stimulates your purpose.

GIVE YOURSELF SOME GRACE

Photo: Joshua McKnight

This is not an easy process. It will take a lot of reaching deep within yourself to find your purpose. This requires discipline, determination and definitely a lot of patience. Do not expect change overnight. Be kind and forgiving to yourself. You want to enjoy this process of rediscovery and finding your purpose. Celebrate the small wins along the way!

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Teona Ringgold