Shortly after college I sat down to do some introspection about what I want to do with my life and read various resources about “finding your purpose”. As I pondered and tried to come up with a purpose statement, I would write, then cross it out and then re-write. Then I got to a place that I thought – oh this must be it.
I don’t recall the exact words I used but I’ll paraphrase.
My purpose is to create software that makes people smile.
Soon after, I was exposed to design thinking and I felt like my purpose should be more closely aligned to that and less about coding. In addition I had several opportunities to teach and thought – well maybe my purpose is to teach. Things changed many times, and it was frustrating to me to read about people being so clear on their purpose and passion. I was putting in the work and not getting results I wanted.
What is typically not shared, as it relates to finding purpose, is that it takes time and is a process. This will not happen overnight no matter how hard you work. The idea of iteration I wrote about aligns with the process of finding your purpose as well. Observe your surroundings, skills and strengths, interpret what that means for you and your future and intervene or take action.
Over time you will refine your purpose, expose yourself to new and interesting ideas and be able to speak clearly to your life’s work.
My current iteration is
I’m born to teach and invite people to act.
I cannot make anyone do anything, but I can extend an invitation for someone to act. Again, this is the current version of my purpose statement and I believe I will continue to refine over time.
My challenge to you is to write down your purpose statement. Put a hold in your calendar for 3-6 months from now with your purpose statement. When the day comes – read your purpose statement and decide if it rings true or needs a re-write. Do this repeatedly until you feel you have landed on something you can be proud to call your purpose.
