Although many of my acquaintances aren’t discontent with their current roles, they’re still having difficulty comprehending what it is that would make them feel fulfilled. What job could become their long-awaited dream ambition?
Does this sound familiar?
If you don’t feel fulfilled in your position right now, it could be that your purpose is something altogether different and may entail a field of work you never dreamed possible.
I speak from personal experience when I say that this occurred to me as well!
Seven months ago, I was feeling trapped and unfulfilled in my job as an event producer. With a desire to redefine my career path, I quit and took the time to reignite old passions of mine. This conscious decision has allowed me to discover my purpose—and it’s undoubtedly changed my life for the better!
If you’ve been facing difficulties in selecting a career path, consider these questions to help make the decision.
These questions are intended to guide you in connecting the dots between your interests and background, thus bringing you closer to achieving how to discover your purpose – which should be the main motivator of your dream career.
1. What are your intrinsic strengths?
Examining your exceptional and admirable qualities can help you pinpoint the best job or industry to pursue so that you will be able to experience gratification and success.
Consider the talents and qualities that you have been most commended for, those moments when you shone as a student or professional, and all of the times your peers saw you as an authoritative figure.
To obtain the most precise understanding of your exceptional qualities, it is also beneficial to ask friends and family to reflect on this inquiry—about you!
2. What interests would you like to explore?
When I first left my job, I had a burning desire to pick up the things that used to bring joy and inspiration into my life — such as writing, singing, and testing different recipes with healthy ingredients. Allowing myself this time out of exploration, not only reignited my creative side but also prompted me to create an entire career out of discovering your purpose in writing.
To start the process of creating a life you love, consider activities that fill your heart with joy and make you burst into laughter. Of course, don’t forget to include those nostalgic pastimes from your childhood too! Explore these vital steps to finding your purpose and embark on a fulfilling journey.
Moreover, think about the abilities you have always wished to acquire. Whether educational, creative or physical—such as comedy improv lessons, learning Spanish language and culture, dabbling in photography equipment like a professional artiste; sharpening your coding skills, or conquering those waves with surfing!
Venture outside of your comfort zone and explore webinars, courses, or workshops that can help you sharpen your skill set. If you’re at a loss for what to learn next, try attending a mood board workshop – it’s sure to get the creative wheels spinning in no time! Not only will this provide new perspectives but also give an opportunity for personal growth.
Finding the time to indulge in activities that are meaningful and bring joy is essential even when you have a full-time job. Not only will it help strengthen your mind and spirit, but also increase your self-esteem while providing the opportunity to meet new people along the way. Explore these steps to finding your purpose and embark on a journey of self-discovery.
3. What can you contribute to the world?
Discovering your purpose is about more than just finding fulfilling work; it’s also about determining the kind of impact you want to make on the world.
What modifications could you bring to your local community or the world at large? Are there any not-for-profit organizations that need your support and participation? How might using your voice, capabilities, and knowledge make a difference in other people’s lives?
I began writing about the highs and lows of my professional transition as I realized that many individuals faced difficulty during their job search, and wanted to help them feel less isolated.
The overwhelming acceptance and appreciation I received for my writing allowed me to discover the very reason why I write: To empower young women by providing them with the tools they need to create strength, balance, and fulfillment in their personal and professional lives; drawing from both my own experiences as well as those of others.
Connecting the Dots
If you’re struggling to find purpose or direction in your career, I strongly encourage you to take some time and thoughtfully evaluate the answers to these questions. Make sure to jot down your musings with pen and paper for further reflection later on. Embracing the journey of discovering your purpose can lead to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Once you have completed your analysis, take note of any consistent patterns or motifs that may have arisen.
Ponder the following: how can I create space in my life to pursue what I’m passionate about? How might I use my talents and develop new skills, enriching myself while aiding others?
To conclude, get in touch with individuals whom you admire from diverse backgrounds and inquire about their career paths. Make sure to communicate the discoveries made during your analysis as well as the job direction you intend on taking – and ask for any words of wisdom they have for your situation!
Clarifying your purpose is like charting a course for success – it’s how you will leave your unique mark on the world.
Making use of it will empower your decisions, promote healthy relationships, and guide you on a journey to greater joy and success.
Don’t give up the search for your purpose, even when it seems hard. Keep learning, reading, exploring, and sharing – over time you will discover what makes your heart sing! With patience and perseverance trust that you can find a meaningful goal to pursue.
This article was originally published on Career Contessa.
