The Puzzle of Purpose

Finding our life purpose can seem like an elusive undertaking for some of us, like a puzzle with missing pieces!  Don't panic! You are not alone.  Most of us want specifics about our purpose but before we can get those it’s important to ask some questions. So here is a little exercise that will help.

First, take out a few sheets of loose paper and a pen. Find a place where you will not be interrupted. Turn off your phone.

Write the answers to each question down. Write the first thing that pops into your head. Write without editing. Use point form. It’s important to write out your answers rather than just thinking about them. Give yourself less than 30 seconds a question. Be honest, nobody will read it. It’s important to write without editing.

Enjoy the moment as you write!

1. What makes you smile? (Activities, people, events, hobbies, projects, etc.)

2. What activities make you lose track of time?

3. Who inspires you most? (Anyone you know or do not know. Family, friends, authors, artists, leaders, etc.) Which qualities inspire you, in each person?

4. What are you naturally good at? (Skills, abilities, gifts etc.)

5. What do people typically ask you for help in?

6. If you had to teach something, what would you teach?

7. What would you regret not fully doing, being or having in your life?

8. You are now 95 years old, sitting on a rocking chair outside on your porch; you can feel the breeze gently brushing against your face. You are pleased with the wonderful life God has blessed you with. Looking back at your life and all that you’ve achieved, all the relationships you’ve developed; what matters to you most? List them out.

9. What are your deepest values?

10. What were some challenges, difficulties and hardships you’ve overcome or are in the process of overcoming? How did you do it?

11. What causes do you strongly believe in?

12. If you could get a message across to a large group of people. Who would those people be? What would your message be?

Give it a shot! At the very least, you’ll begin to learn one of two things: your true purpose in life or that you should unsubscribe from this blog. We will talk more about this next week.