Now Is a Great Time to Revisit Your Purpose
January brings out the goal-setter in many of us. What can you accomplish this year? What is possible for your life in 2024 and beyond? As you ponder the options before you, a new discovery awaits in the form of your purpose.
I define purpose as:
the inspiration that brings meaning to your life,
the reason that gets you out of bed in the morning, and
your passion and contribution to the world.
While setting goals, think about whether they further your purpose. You may notice something through the process - your purpose evolved because you changed. A purpose may pivot for a number of reasons: perhaps you've started a new job, experienced a life event, or prioritized things differently.
This realization can be uncomfortable at first. You may question whether your purpose has actually changed, whether you still want the same things, or whether you are still the same you. In these moments, confidently acknowledge you are very much still you, a you that evolved to the exact place you are today. Get clear on your updated purpose and the values that drive it.
State your purpose in a sentence or two, and use it to fuel growth in new ways. Look for opportunities to share it with others. Living your purpose is you at your best.
It is natural that as you grow, your purpose evolves. This will likely happen at multiple points during your lifetime. Your ability to be aware of the shift, articulate the change in clear words, and build goals to support your purpose keep you aligned with what you value most.
Dr. Katie Stone is the founder of Together Evolving. Email Katie at katie.stone@togetherevolving.com to learn more about the transformational impact coaching has on you and your leadership.