Purpose is one of those tricky and sticky things that people struggle with for most of their lives.
You know it’s important to know, but it feels most like a mystery that other people have, and wonder, will you ever truly know yours?
Let’s take a step back in time with purpose and how purpose has been viewed.
The Stoics believed that the ultimate goal of life was to live in accordance with nature and reason. They believed that by understanding the natural order of things and aligning our actions with it, we could achieve fulfilment. Living in the present moment and appreciating whatever happens as part of the natural order.
Plato believed that the ultimate goal of life was to achieve knowledge of the eternal and unchanging truths that underlie the physical world. He believed that by gaining knowledge, we could transcend the world of appearances and arrive at a higher understanding of reality.
Aristotle believed that the ultimate goal of life was to achieve eudaimonia, or human flourishing. He believed that this could be achieved by living a virtuous life, in which one develops and exercises virtues such as courage, wisdom, and justice. Aristotle also believed that finding one’s purpose in life was closely tied to your unique talents and abilities and that each person had a distinct role to play in society.
So in a nutshell,
Stoics: Align with nature
Plato: Seek eternal truth
Aristotle: Achieve actualisation
So, let’s take some of that wisdom to see how you can discover your purpose. Here are three steps, you curious creature.
Reflect on what makes you feel alive. The first step to finding your ultimate goal in life is to reflect on what you truly value.
Assess your skills and abilities. The second step is to assess your skills and abilities. Consider what you are naturally good at and what you enjoy doing.
Test and try. The third step is to take action and experiment with different paths. Growth comes from experience, so step outside your comfort zone and explore new opportunities.
Your ultimate goal is something that drives you and makes you inspired to achieve it.
As simple as this is, it takes time, but it is worth it.
Here’s to living up to the light that is within you,
Tanya Cross
