6 Ways to Add Purpose to Your Life
Being purpose driven, in my opinion, doesn’t necessarily mean being singularly focused or doing something grandiose. The following six ideas are small ways that you and I can simply yet effectively add purpose to our lives and simultaneously benefit those around us.
#1 Be Thankful
We Americans are always encouraged to become better and do more, but sometimes we need to simply sit back and be thankful for the many blessings we already have. Things that many of us take for granted, such as having food to eat and a roof over our heads. Consider starting a gratitude journal by writing about some of the things you are thankful for each week.
#2 Befriend Others
You undoubtedly already have lots of friends around the country and even around the world. Why would you need to seek out more?
First, there’s always room for another friend. Second, you might be just the person they need in their lives right now. And finally, the more people you know, the more people you can connect with others who need or share their special gifts and abilities. Networking is often reserved for the business world, but it’s equally beneficial in our personal lives.
#3 Be a Volunteer
If you aren’t already volunteering in some capacity, you really ought to try it out. Select an organization that aligns with your interests and purpose and let them know your commitment level. Be honest and realistic here; nonprofit organizations rely heavily on volunteers to accomplish all of their objectives and need dependable and reliable people to do what they’ve said they’d do.
If you only have one hour a week available, say so. They will be grateful for your service. However, if you have only one hour available and yet commit to something that requires significantly more time, the project will suffer and your reputation will be tarnished in the process.
#4 Be Courageous
You know that one thing you really want or need to do but are afraid to try it? Maybe it’s going on a mission trip or starting a new career. Maybe it’s simply saying “no” to some of the never-ending requests for your time and service. Or maybe it’s finally standing up for yourself – or someone else. Whatever it is, don’t allow another year to go by with regrets or wondering “what if?” Take the initiative and conquer at least one of your fears this year.
# 5 Be Present
In today’s high-tech world, it’s easy to spend our days flitting between social media platforms, personal and work computer programs, responding to texts, reading our Kindles, watching our televisions and talking on the phone. We also rely on our GPS and Waze apps to direct us in our daily travel, frequently monitor the number of steps we’ve taken on our FitBits and unwind by listening to our favorite streaming music source, sometimes on headphones.
Take time to stop and smell the roses, too. Don’t let the distractions of the day prevent you from spending quality time with your loved ones. Appreciate the beauty of God’s creation – go outside and enjoy nature. Perhaps commit to take a day (or at least half a day) to disconnect from technology once a month.
#6 Be Receptive
Our society, even this article up to this point, is all about how to do things ourselves. And while it’s true that success of any kind requires individual drive and initiative, it’s equally true that we can’t do everything on our own.
Be willing to seek, accept and graciously receive help and insight from others. And on a much deeper level, I encourage you to be receptive to God’s purpose for your life as well by spending some time in prayer and Scripture every day.
Bonus Tip: Begin Now!
All it takes is a small mind shift to get started; simply choose one thing that you can easily implement. Take action now to stop limiting yourself, achieve your goal(s) and make an impact. You can do it!
