🔍 Step 1: Understand Yourself
Ask yourself:
What energizes me? What do I lose track of time doing? What issues or causes do I care about deeply? What are my natural strengths or talents? When have I felt most fulfilled or proud?
Write down any patterns you notice.
⚖️ Step 2: Balance the Four Pillars of Purpose
A useful concept is Ikigai, a Japanese term for “reason for being,” where these four elements intersect:
What you love What you’re good at What the world needs What you can be paid for (if applicable)
Your purpose may lie in the overlap of those.
🧭 Step 3: Test Through Action
Purpose isn’t found by thinking alone—it’s discovered through doing. Try:
Volunteering for causes you care about Taking up side projects or hobbies Talking to people in roles that inspire you Learning skills that align with your interests
Ask yourself: Did that feel meaningful or energizing?
💬 Step 4: Get Outside Perspective
Talk to:
Friends or mentors who know you well People you admire Coaches or counselors (career, life, etc.)
Ask what strengths they see in you or how they see you make an impact.
🛠 Step 5: Refine & Align
Purpose isn’t one thing forever. As you grow, so will your understanding of it. What matters is finding alignment between:
Your values Your actions Your goals
If those feel in sync, you’re likely on the right path—even if it’s evolving.
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