By Jonathon Vogel
The word purpose isn't new. We have been trying to find our purpose for generations. Many people get purpose confused with finding their passion. That to me is wrong. Purpose is not your passion. Your passion is an ingredient in the recipe of your purpose. Your purpose I would define as follows:
Purpose = what you aim at that gives your life the most meaning.
Another way to think about it is in the form of a purpose statement (thanks to Don Miller for this idea):
I will accomplish X, by Y, because of Z.
- X = 1-3 things you will focus on
- Y = the deadline to the day (i.e. March 10, 2025)
- Z = the reason or belief that drives X and Y
Keep in mind that you don't want your purpose statement to be too large that you don't take action. I've seen the most effective purpose statements have a daily action X, only a year or two out Y, and a deeply rooted desire-oriented Z motivation.
What are the ingredients of purpose?
- Clarity — you can remember it and say it easily
- Simplicity — you can understand it
- Alignment — your desires and dreams are captured by it
- Peace — you have conviction and confidence for it
- Passion — it focuses you on what passions might emerge from it
If you don't mind sharing with the group, what's your purpose statement? If you need help, I'm happy to help you craft yours. Let me know!