On Purpose

Today's Word is Purpose

"I am here for a Purpose and that Purpose is to grow into a mountain, not shrink into a grain of sand." - Og Mandino

This is probably one of the most asked questions, What is my purpose? Understanding and finding purpose has been a source of frustration, confusion and and inspiration. I even named my coaching practice, On Purpose Life Coaching. So, what does it mean to live your life On Purpose? Together, the words On Purpose, are literally defined as, “by design, intentionally.” Isn’t that what we all want; to feel that our lives are of our design? That we can be intentional and produce optimal results with well chosen thoughts, beliefs and actions? To know that we are both the artist and the art? Purpose is about remembering who you are; separate from your ego and the external trappings around you. It is about tuning into the part of you that is connected to Source, connected to humanity. It is the authentic you and your purpose is to intentionally grow and nurture the qualities and gifts that make you feel strong, connected and joyful. It is intrinsic and present all-ways.

“Life finds its purpose and fulfillment in the expansion of happiness.”
- Maharishi Mahesh Yogi

This is where it gets interesting; I don’t believe in some identifiable and external purpose for each person. I don’t believe in searching and seeking for your purpose. In order to live a life of purpose you must understand your intrinsic value and find ways to express these values in your everyday experience. Seeking a vocational choice or finding “what you are destined to do” as the marker of your purpose can create disappointment and frustration. Instead return to the feeling within you that is unencumbered by labels and roles. Dr. Abraham Maslow created a pyramid of self-actualization and at the very top is a sense of purpose. Fifty years ago his research discovered that when a person lives with the highest qualities of humanity: love, generosity and kindness, people feel their lives have meaning and direction. It is demonstrated in a variety of situations; careers and hobbies can be an avenue, but your career is not your purpose. Your purpose is to add light and joy to the world. You may offer that in a myriad of ways: learning more about cultures, sharing your sense of humor, inspiring young people or using a creative talent. Each day is an opportunity to feel purposeful; by giving in each and every moment. Stay focused on giving and your inspired art will find you. The roles or labels you inhabit are not your purpose; it is the canvas on which you create your art. You can change canvasses, themes and locations, but the value and intention you bring remains the same. When you bring the authentic you, the best you, increasing your joy and connection, you begin to live intentionally; you are now living On Purpose.

Today Ask Yourself:

1. What can I do today that would add joy to my life and the lives of those around me?

2. What activities, situations and circumstances make me feel like the best possible version of myself?

3. If I could sum up my purpose in a sentence or two, what would it be?

“My purpose is to live a life where all who know me say it is better to see me coming than going. To add value, joy and wisdom everyday and all-ways, remembering the essence of who I am."

- Shawna Campbell

I would love to assist you in finding your intrinsic purpose, by understanding the values that drive you. Please contact me and we will work together to help you live your life, On Purpose.