pur⋅pose :1. the reason for which something exists or is done, made, used, etc.
2. an intended or desired result; end; aim; goal.
3. determination; resoluteness.
4. the subject in hand; the point at issue.
5. practical result, effect, or advantage: to act to good purpose.
Last night while pulling tear sheets for inspiration on a story I’m working on I came across an article in an old issue of Essence Magazine called Finding The Path to Your Purpose written by Monique Greenwood.
It got me thinking a question that I often ask myself. Am I following my purpose? You see I really want to be. Because I believe if I’m not then I’ll never be truly successful or happy. But how do you know if you’re "On Purpose" or how do you stay the course when things are not quite working out or the dream is just not materializing or life just keeps throwing marbles in your path?
Well, how do you know? Don’t look to me for the answers I’m asking the questions here today.
Ok I’ll give you a few suggestions from the article that I thought were pretty good and lastly one from me that may or may not be total junk. Hey, you can take it or leave it. I'm just me.
1. Put yourself in the picture: imagine yourself in the role you want to be. Sketch out a collage or storyboard. Visualization helps keep us on track
2. Forge full steam ahead even if only for 15 minutes: Don’t wait for Someday. Someday usually never comes. Right? Take it from the great procrastinator.
3. Ring up a role model: Surround yourself with a few good people that are true cheerleaders. Or better yet a mentor. Have positive people in your corner. No downers allowed.
4. Persist despite the fear: Fear is the great paralyzer and time sucker. Don’t let it stop you from realizing your dreams. Just don't.
5. The last tip from me is live with hope and faith and step out on it because it doesn’t matter how much you hope and dream it all takes work. Hard work to see it all come true. And if it is your true purpose it should come true, eventually, and you will be smiling big when it does. Inside and out.
Best,
Kwana
Posts
18 comments:
I think role models are really important. Not only do they help us see what success is possible, but they can act as mentors as well if a relationship can be established.
The biggest thing is realizing that we all find our purpose on our own terms. Some know right away and others - it takes years. Think of a fence and what is on the other side, is always good - it shows what is holding you back or "fencing" you in.
It is called "Fence Visualization" sort of the same as the purpose in a way. I did this in a class and it really was amazing. Also having your "aura" checked is really showing.
Great post to get thee on purpose.
Driving home from the gym last night, this same idea about purpose crossed my mind. Well...it didn't really cross. It came into my mind and stayed for awhile. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I especially appreciate your words about putting hope and faith into action. And More for me to think about today.
Very good advice! Like others have noted, role models are oh-so-important in this.
I am not so much "living my purpose" right now, as I am "living reality to get to my purpose soon". One of the difficult things for me has been accepting that these things don't happen overnight, but that the building blocks are important parts to be enjoyed on teh way there.
Kwana~ What a thoughtful post! I think it's always good to stop-pause and think about what it is we do well, that brings us joy, that fulfills us. I think it all evolves with time, age and wisdom.
Taking time for yourself is also what grounds some. I know it's good for me. I love my alone time with my thoughts, dreams and prayer.
Great post :o)
I love this! Very profound!
I've learned what not do do from negative role models..and I've learned to follow my dreams and make something happen from those who continue to be my role models...
fantastic post!!! (see Kwana, i'm a non downer!) Seriously, I want to skip town when my 'friends' are in the down-mode. repent-repent-repent!
these are great..I love when others do great posts like this to keep me grounded and focused on what i really important!
ps..I thought of you yesterday when I made reservations at the resturant of the guy on top chef for next week..ill let you know how it is! my dad is going to flip!
We all have our purpose and in time we find it. I have learned that sometimes I don't hear the answer because I'm too busy asking. If it is worth anything Kwana I enjoy reading what you write. You have a way with words that are hard to come by. Keep going my friend. xoxo
persistence is the key for me at the moment, just keep writing and writing and writing.
Thank you for this great post.
Thanks so much for all your kind words. I'm just going to keep plugging ahead and not give up. I have a vision and will not let it go.
Beautiful post, Kwana! Hold fast to that vision!! :)
Great post! Thank you!!!
I think those were all good points. I too am a procrastinator with good intentions. I think my waistline and business would improve tremendously if I would just be more disaplined!
Great reminders, Kwana! Thanks for the inspiration!
Fabulous advice. I think this post should go on my inspiration board! I'm stuck in such a rut...blah...and don't want to be stuck in an uncreative "desk job" for the rest of my working days. When I got my taxes done and my accountant said something like, "...you still have a good 20 years ahead of you (at work)..." I almost burst into tears!! And not because my 401(k) is in the crapper, but at the thought I'll be chained to a desk for another 20 years. EEK!
:-)
So...thank YOU for the great post!
Post a Comment