Break Through the Messy Middle: A Purpose-Focused Strategy for Success, Pt. 2

Published on
December 12, 2024

Dear reader,

This is the second post in a three-part series. Part one can be found here; part three will be posted next Thursday.

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Have you ever wondered why certain situations spark an immediate desire to help while others don't move you? That instinctive response holds the key to understanding your life's purpose. In this post, we'll explore how your natural reactions to others' struggles and your own life experiences create a roadmap to discovering your unique calling.

Do you know your purpose?

Your purpose often reveals itself through the moments that move you to immediate action and the experiences that have shaped your core beliefs. It's a guiding force that can help you navigate life's challenges and make a difference.

When you look back at defining chapters of growth in your life, you'll spot patterns in how you've naturally stepped up to help others overcome specific challenges.

Your most profound sense of meaning emerges when your heart breaks for others' struggles and you feel compelled to "make a difference," even in small ways.

Think about these two practical steps.

Study your natural responses to others' struggles

When you encounter someone struggling, your immediate, unfiltered response often points directly to your core values and natural gifts.

Whether you instinctively offer solutions, listen deeply, or share your experiences, these spontaneous reactions illuminate what truly matters to you.

Pay attention to the environments where your empathy development flourishes naturally. You might notice you're consistently drawn to creating supportive environments for team members or facilitating shared experiences that help others grow.

These patterns aren't random - they're breadcrumbs leading to your purpose.

Watch for these patterns: Do you actively listen when a colleague is stressed? Perhaps you instinctively gather resources to help someone overcome an obstacle. Are you the person others seek for practical advice, emotional support, or creative solutions?

Your natural role in these moments - whether as a guide, supporter, or problem-solver - reveals the unique value you bring to others.

Study the chapters of your life that brought the most growth

Looking back at hinge moments in your life reveals a deeper layer of self-knowledge beyond your instinctive reactions. Your journey isn't linear but a series of interconnected growth experiences that shape your core understanding.

Through reflective practices, you'll notice patterns in responding to life's pivotal chapters.

When examining your evolution, focus on these key areas:

  1. Times you pushed through significant obstacles - note what gave you the strength to persist and how those resilience strategies still serve you.
  1. Relationships that sparked meaningful connections - identify the values and purposes those bonds helped you discover.
  1. Moments when you felt alive and engaged - recognize the activities or causes that naturally energized you.
  1. Periods of transformation - understand how your priorities and beliefs shifted through these experiences.

Your most profound growth often emerges from challenges that initially seemed impossible. By studying these chapters, you'll uncover the unique blueprint of your purpose.

Your Turn

Finding your purpose isn't about discovering something new – it's about recognizing the patterns that have been there all along. By studying your natural responses to others' needs and reflecting on your life's pivotal moments, you're not just finding your purpose but acknowledging the purpose that has already found you.

Call to Action

Take 15 minutes today to journal about a recent situation where you felt compelled to help someone. What did your response reveal about your natural gifts and core values? Understanding these patterns is your first step toward living with a greater purpose.

Don't let this be just another post you read and forget. Your leadership journey matters too much for that. I’ve created a simple Purpose Planning Infographic to guide your planning process. Click here to request your copy.

I'd love to know how your journaling went. Shoot me a note a let me know.

*This post contains an affiliate link. I will receive a small commission if you purchase the book using the link provided.

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