Find your calling: Uncovering your purpose
Has anyone ever asked you what your purpose in life is? Or have you ever stopped and asked yourself that question? It’s easy to feel lost when trying to determine your purpose. Sometimes we feel like we’re just going through the motions, going to school or work, doing what is expected of us, but never really feeling satisfied or fulfilled. That’s why it’s important to uncover our purpose and find our calling in life. In this article, we’ll explore the steps you can take to find your calling and start living a more purposeful life.
Step 1: Reflect on Your Passions
The first step in finding your calling is to reflect on your passions. What are the things that make you feel excited and energized? What are the activities that you could do for hours on end without getting bored? Identifying your passions is a key component in finding your purpose. If you’re doing something that you’re passionate about, it’s much easier to find fulfillment and happiness.
To start, make a list of the things that you love doing. It could be anything from playing music, working with animals, cooking, or playing sports. Don’t limit yourself or worry about how practical your passions are. This list is just for you, and it’s important to be honest with yourself. Once you have your list, think about how you could incorporate these passions into your career or daily life. For example, if you love cooking, you could consider becoming a chef or starting a food blog.
Step 2: Identify Your Skills and Strengths
The second step in finding your calling is to identify your skills and strengths. What are the things that you are naturally good at? What do your friends and family come to you for advice or help with? Knowing your strengths and skills can help narrow down potential career paths or hobbies that align with your passions.
A great way to identify your skills and strengths is to take a personality or career assessment test. These tests can help you understand your strengths, weaknesses, and what types of jobs or activities would be a good fit for you. Some popular assessments include the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator and the CliftonStrengths assessment.
Step 3: Consider Your Values
The third step in finding your calling is to consider your values. What are the things that are most important to you in life? Is it family, community service, environmentalism, or social justice? These values can help guide you towards a career or lifestyle that aligns with your beliefs and passions.
You can also identify your values by asking yourself what motivates you. Is it helping others, making a difference in the world, or achieving success? Understanding what drives you can help you make decisions that align with your values.
Step 4: Try New Things
The fourth step in finding your calling is to try new things. Sometimes we think we know what we’re passionate about, but we haven’t had the opportunity to explore that passion fully. Trying new things can help you discover new passions and interests that you never knew existed.
For example, if you’ve always been interested in photography but haven’t pursued it, sign up for a photography class or start taking pictures in your free time. Or if you’re curious about a particular career path, try shadowing someone who works in that field to get a better understanding of what the job entails.
Step 5: Network and Seek Mentorship
The fifth step in finding your calling is to network and seek mentorship. Talking to professionals in your desired field can give you insights into what it takes to succeed and what you can expect from the industry. Mentorship is also valuable in providing guidance and support as you navigate your path towards your calling.
To network, start by attending events in your industry or reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. Most people are willing to share their experiences and offer advice to those who show genuine interest in their line of work. For mentorship, consider reaching out to a former teacher, coworker, or industry leader who you admire. Remember, mentorship is a two-way street, and you should also be willing to offer your skills and expertise in return.
Step 6: Take Action
The final step in finding your calling is to take action. Once you’ve identified your passions, skills, values, tried new things, and networked with professionals, it’s time to take the plunge and pursue your calling.
It’s important to remember that finding your calling is not a one-time task. It’s an ongoing process that may require you to make adjustments as you evolve and grow. The key is to take action towards your purpose, even if it’s small steps at first. These steps could be updating your resume, taking a class, or starting a side project. Whatever it is, taking action is the first step in living a purposeful life.
Benefits of Finding Your Calling
Discovering your calling can provide countless benefits beyond just finding a fulfilling career. Here are just a few:
- Increased Happiness and Fulfillment: When you’re doing something you love and believe in, it’s much easier to be happy and satisfied with your life.
- Improved Mental Health: Pursuing your calling can also lead to improved mental health. You may feel less stressed and anxious, and even experience fewer symptoms of depression.
- Increased Motivation: When you’re passionate about what you’re doing, it’s much easier to stay motivated and focused, even when faced with challenges.
- Greater Resilience: Pursuing your calling can also build resilience. When you face setbacks, you’re more likely to bounce back more quickly and continue pursuing your purpose.
- Impact on Others: Pursuing your calling can also have a positive impact on others. When you’re living a purposeful life, you can inspire and empower those around you to do the same.
Conclusion
Finding your calling is an essential part of living a fulfilling and purposeful life. It requires reflection, discovery, and action. By identifying your passions, skills, values, trying new things, and seeking mentorship, you can uncover your purpose and take steps towards living a more satisfying life. Remember, it’s never too late to find your calling. Start today and see where your journey takes you!