Defining Your Life’s Purpose—At Any Age
I have lived most of my life “mindlessly,” that is, without clear thought behind my actions and decisions—and often driven at least in part by fear. I chose the college I did because that’s where my older brother was going, joined a sorority because that’s what “everybody” was doing, majored in History because it had few credit requirements, pursued a career in retailing for lack of any other interests, married my first husband because I was afraid of being alone—you get the picture.
While many of my friends tell me they too made youthful decisions somewhat unconsciously, I’m truly amazed at how much more aware and thoughtful my own twin daughters are, at 18, than I was at their age. And while I’m proud and thrilled for them, I’m a bit envious too. What dreams might I have pursued, what goals might I have reached, had I been more thoughtful and aware in my teens and early twenties?
When I approached age 50, I finally had a wake-up call that, with several decades of empty nesting ahead of me, it wasn’t too late: I could still craft a more “conscious” life for myself.
Today, my work as a life coach and writer combines my interests in human connection, psychology, research, writing, and teaching, along with my dedication to results. By identifying my strengths, my passions, and my values, I have defined my purpose as follows:
My personal mission is to use my talent for researching and synthesizing ideas, along with my passion for informing others, to challenge, empower, and inspire people to purposeful and transformative action.
This mission statement is now my guiding star, providing me clear direction when I come to any decision point in my life. I wake up every day knowing why I’m here and what I’m meant to do, excited for the journey ahead. And I am working to translate my purpose into actionable plans that will define my path.
What is YOUR life purpose?
Through my training with iPEC (the institute of Professional Education for Coaches), my clients, my research, and my own journey, I have developed a powerful workshop that allows anyone to identify their own purpose in life.
Let me help you find yours. Please contact me if you’d like to host a workshop or work with me individually.
And I’m thrilled to announce that I’ll be teaching this workshop in Costa Rica, March 2-9. 2017. Join me for a small women’s adventure group and purpose quest (4 spots left!). Details here.
In the meantime, if you’d like to read more on the subject of purpose, I recommend the following books:
- The Power of Purpose: Find Meaning, Live Longer, Better by Richard Leider
- On Purpose: How We Create the Meaning of Life by Paul Froese
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I have found that my life’s purpose is somewhat evolving and changing. I’m very happy with my choices and stories from when I was younger. I think they have created a better me now. Knowing that I can have a next act multiple times is very exciting to me.
lori recently posted…The Power of Magic and Gratitude
I agree. I’m sure my life purpose will evolve over time too. But unlike you, this is my first attempt at crafting a personal mission statement, so time will tell. Better late than never! I’m also learning to accept the past; unlike you, that’s more of a challenge for me! Thanks for reading Lori!
Like you, I “woke” up later in life thinking, what the hell is my purpose. We do have to define our lives to truly live a life of meaning not meandering!
Love that! Yes, it’s never too late to wake up to our purpose. Thanks Michele!
I love your mission statement. I feel sad when I see so many people just drifting through life without a plan or a purpose or a passion. Like you, I am working to change that.
Michele recently posted…Why Optimism Wins
Hi Michele and thanks for reading. Yes, I am finding that having a defined mission is really a wonderful gift, one that makes me feel I know why I’m here. I would love for everyone to have that clarity! I see we do share that value. All the best to you.
Hooray, Helene! What an inspirational read. Thank you for sharing this story about yourself.
You’re too kind Vicki!!
Children are the future of the world, and by helping to save them & their futures, World Vision is ultimately doing a great service towards stopping the exploitation of all human beings.
It is never to late to set goals for yourself, your doing an amazing job.
You’re right Rena. Thanks for visiting!!
Love your message! I know that so many of us float through life living the “script” that our parents/society has handed us. Later, we end up unhappy and wondering why we don’t feel aligned with our purpose and passions. Kudos to you for helping people see and hopefully escape that trap!
Rica@Yoga Mat Monkey.com recently posted…A Raw Conversation Between Yoga Boss Ladies
Yes! Time to rewrite our stories. Thanks for reading!
Moving forward is the only way to go! Good for you Helene!
Haralee recently posted…Landing My Olympic Dismount while Wearing Glitter
I agree. Beats the alternative! Thanks for checking out my post Haralee.
A mission statement! That is awesome! I often feel that, like my brain, my purpose is ADHD…scattered and too fast to catch!
One often only thinks of mission statements for companies, but I love the idea for individuals too! Thanks for reading Tam!
I’m three years from 50 and probably another five after that until I’m completely able to make choices only for me – – but I’m already thinking. I’m definitely ready.
Hi Carla, this is such a great time of life to define what you want out of the second half. Congrats on thinking ahead and all the best to you!