We are not Meant to ‘Find’ Meaning in our Lives

“When you find your purpose and meaning and live it everyday, you will never work a day in your life”.

We have heard many iterations of this idea and each version always conveys the idea of ‘finding’ purpose and ‘finding’ meaning. This concept implies that we are powerless in our own lives. That we are passive bystanders in our own journeys and that one day we will stumble upon our life’s purpose or meaning as if it were simply lying under a rock or was hidden behind a tree.

We are not supposed to be passive bystanders in our own lives. We are the author, the visionary and the director of our story. We are not so powerless as to have to wait for our meaning to be discovered and revealed to us. We have the power to create meaning in our lives. We are in the driver’s seat.

Placing the onus back on ourselves to create meaning in our world is ultimately more fulfilling than simply waiting to find a purpose. When we commit to this simple mindset shift, we begin to become more in-tune with our inner psyche and to learn about ourselves in the process of creating, shaping and becoming. We learn what we enjoy, where our passions lie, where we feel fulfilled and also where we feel drained, resentment and avoidant. The more integrated we become in mind, body and soul, the more likely we are to experience contentment in day to day life, gratitude for what we have and inspiration for that which we wish to become.

So how do we create meaning? The first step is to become an observer of self. What thoughts, emotions and actions arise when we are in particular settings and circumstances or around specific people? Observing these internal and external conditions allows us to map what fuels us and what takes us further away from our goals and dreams. When we begin to recognise these patterns, we can visualise what path energises us in body and soul. That is our path. That is our passion.

The next step is to communicate and share energy with others. What is it that you do well, that serves other people and simultaneously delivers a sense of personal reward and satisfaction? Take note of how the people around you respond to what you have to offer. As your skills and passion begin to align with a target market of beneficiaries, you have created a path of service to others through leveraging that which you love.

If you find that you are struggling to marry your passion and energy with the creation of a service for other people, research the field and look at what successful people in the area have done. Success leaves clues. You may have to refine your approach over time, but if you truly know what it is that you want to do and you know that this product/service offers value to other people, you will create a way to improve the lives of others through your passion and purpose.

Step 1: Observe

Step 2: Communicate and Share

Step 3: Refine

Another angle to consider exists outside the world of careers and entrepreneurism. Many people do not ‘find’ meaning and purpose in their work, but in their role at home, as a parent, carer, partner or sibling. This is incredibly fine and does not make you any less successful than those who create meaning in their career. If you decide that your goal and purpose in life is to be the most present parent or supportive partner, that is a powerfully valid and admirable decision. What would it take to be that parent or partner? Observe, Communicate, Refine and Continue.

Create the path, do not passively wait until the day you by chance stumble upon it.

We don’t find meaning in life. We have more power than that.

We create meaning in life.

You are the author, you hold the pen and the next chapter is yours to write.