The liberation of knowing your purpose

I hear the familiar jiggle sound, and a new email appears in my inbox. It is a new opportunity that excites and intrigues me. Although slightly outside my main expertise, it indicates a possibility of achieving it. Yet, as I look at my calendar, I can't help but despair over the timing – although, in the frenzy of our modern lives, when is it ever a good time? A few years ago, the first “Sorry, I am in full capacity for this year; I can't take any new projects” email was only sent in November. Last year, it was sent in September. This year, who knows? As I weigh the decision in front of me, I remind myself of the many times I have taken extra between an already busy workload. Positives and negatives in those decisions: lessons, growth, stress and time pressure, among others.  However, now I know what question to ask: 

“Does this align, resonate and assist my purpose?”

Although sounding too theoretical, this question has practical implications, particularly for cases where we have the freedom and option to make decisions. To put it simply, if my boss asks me to finish a task, I might not have the luxury of deciding if this aligns with my life purpose, but not all decisions in our lives are like this.  These thoughts and reflections on my life purpose are the outcomes of a lengthy journey of introspection, growth and self-discovery, guided by psychotherapy and life coaching to understand my desires and emotions. Through the combination of inward exploration, guidance and spiritual practice, this dynamic journey towards discovering the impact I would like to make in this world has started.

Five years ago, the discussions at the Africa Science Leadership Programme (ASLP) planted a seed of these thoughts, but as life has it, I didn’t even realise the milestone that would be. As I reunited with fellow participants, the impact was profound.

Understanding or striving to understand our purpose yields numerous everyday and practical advantages. This insight serves as:

A filter for decision-making: When we are clear about our purpose, it serves as a guiding filter for our decision-making process. Determining which opportunities align with our goals and values and which do not become easier. This clarity saves us from wasting time and energy on endeavours that don't contribute to our greater purpose, allowing us to focus on what truly matters. As a woman, mother, academic, and economist, understanding and defining my purpose can help prioritise my commitments, whether it is balancing work and family responsibilities or choosing research projects that align with my academic and professional aspirations.

A source of happiness and fulfilment: Understanding our purpose gives us a sense of direction and meaning in life. When we engage in activities that resonate with our purpose, we experience a profound sense of satisfaction. Finding fulfilment may involve different aspects of your life, such as pursuing your career goals, nurturing your family relationships, or making contributions to your field of study.

Empowerment in navigating challenges: Knowing your purpose can provide a sense of empowerment when faced with challenges or obstacles. It acts as a driving force that motivates you to persevere through difficult times, reminding you of the greater significance behind your efforts. Embracing my purpose can give me the strength and resilience to overcome hurdles in my life, juggling multiple roles, overcoming academic challenges, or navigating uncertainties.

Inspiring others through authenticity: When you live authentically in alignment with your purpose, you become a source of inspiration for others. Your clarity and passion shine through, motivating those around you to pursue their paths. Hopefully, sharing my journey of discovering and living my purpose can inspire others in similar roles to find meaning in their lives, fostering a supportive community of individuals striving to make a difference in their respective areas.

 

The discovery and journey towards understanding one’s purpose is ever-evolving and continuously growing. Circumstances and priorities undergo continual transformation, so our purpose must adapt and redirect itself. What has driven me in my 20s might not be exactly what drives me now as I gain life experiences, encounter new challenges and re-evaluate myself. This dynamic character of purpose may lead to shifts in career focus, adjustments in personal goals, or newfound passions. Embracing these changes allows us to remain open to each stage of life's possibilities while enriching our journey with purpose.

How do I start the journey to my purpose?

Exploring and discovering one's life purpose is a deeply personal journey, but there are several practical steps that can guide this process, derived from my own personal experience (surely there are more). Firstly, engage in self-reflection through journaling or any other form. Take the time to explore your passions, values, and interests, noting patterns and moments of fulfilment. Listen to yourself: when do you feel energised and happy? Secondly, seek diverse experiences and opportunities for growth. Step out of your comfort zone, try new activities, and expose yourself to different perspectives. These experiences can provide valuable insights into what resonates deeply with you and where your strengths – and weaknesses-  lie. Lastly, don't be afraid to seek support from mentors, coaches, friends or trusted confidants. Discussing openly and learning from those who have walked similar paths can offer clarity.

As we navigate the road ahead, let’s do so with a sense of curiosity and optimism, understanding that every twist and turn brings us closer to living with purpose.