What purpose IS and IS NOT
Recently, I filmed a Training Tuesday about the idea of purpose. In the Training Tuesday video I addressed the #1 misconception I typically hear from folks about purpose and their career, and it was so powerful that I realized I ought to share the lesson here as well…
Ready?
If I can remind you of one thing about purpose and how it relates to your career, let it be this: PURPOSE IS NOT AN ANSWER.
Lots of folks look at purpose this way. They think that it's this magical thing you either know or you don't. They act like purpose is a vocation...an answer about their future that will dawn on them and fix everything. They think that working with a career clarity coach will entail them taking some assessments, sitting back, and listening for a drum roll as I announce their “perfect path”.
Nope. No way. That’s not how this works.
When clients think this way about purpose, then they often look for external solutions to the "problem". They lack clarity so they take tests online, read self-help books, and ask others what their purpose is.
The good news and bad news? This is wrong.
It's bad because it means finding your purpose and a fulfilling professional path takes work. This isn't a simple equation to solve for when you're feeling stuck.
It's also amazing news because it takes the pressure off. Phew! Instead of looking for the secret answer to life's big question (which is a lot of pressure if you ask me), by looking at purpose as a direction and way of being in lieu of an "answer" about your perfect job, you get a long-term sustainable solution. It's one that you can solve for if you know how.
This is what I want you to remember today. It’s one of the most essential lessons I try and leave with all my clients, and I want to be sure you know it too. Finding clarity about your professional path isn’t just an “answer”. It’s a process, and it’s all about doing more of what’s fulfilling to you each day. Now, it’s time that you get out and start doing it.
Enjoy!
P.S. If you want to watch the Training Tuesday video I mentioned, you can find it here.