Most would agree that purpose-filled living beats an aimless existence every day of the week and twice on Sundays. But how do you actually live life on purpose?
The starting point for purpose-filled living is defining what purposeful living means for you. Do you have a sense of purpose in life? If not, that’s where you have to begin. It’s impossible to live a purpose-filled life if you haven’t defined what your purpose in life is.
Now some people seem to know what their purpose in life is naturally. Most of us have to give it some serious thought. In our media-rich world where noise, news, and entertainment follow every step of the way, that’s no easy task. Reflection requires time away from distractions to ponder.
Are you willing to carve out some alone time to think and pray? Once you are, here are a few questions that will provide clues to help you define your purpose in life.
1. What are your values?
2. What activities and endeavors have given you the most satisfaction in life?
3. What are your strengths and interests?
4. What do others seem to admire most about you?
5. Have you ever sensed God leading you in specific direction in life?
6. What needs do you find most important in your work, your community, and your world?
Now comes the hard part—or maybe the easy part in your case. Answer those and other questions you come up with, reflect on the answers for a couple days or even weeks; discuss initial thoughts and ideas with trusted friends, and add a healthy dose of prayer. See what you come up with.
But you’re not done quite yet. Write it down and refer to it often to help guide your goals and daily activities.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Mark Gilroy is author of the critically acclaimed novel Cuts Like a Knife. A 30-year veteran of the publishing industry, he has served as publisher and executive vice president at several companies and currently runs a company that services retailers, publishers, ministries, and other organizations in the industry.