Heart to Heart: Confused about my life purpose
By Laurie Martin Community Contributor
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Dear Laurie,
Recently, I have been wondering what my life purpose is. What am I meant to be doing? I thought I knew, but I struggle with doubt and insecurity. I know you can’t answer these questions for me through this column, but I was wondering, when you work with clients who are going through something similar, what would you advise they do to figure this out?
Thank you so much,
Regina
Dear Regina,
You are not alone; many people are going through something similar and are seeking greater fulfillment. First thing I would advise is quiet time to discern fears and your intuition. When a client of mine is struggling with these questions, in most cases it’s a sign that they are on an inner journey — a journey of getting to know themselves better.
When we have confusion, this is a great opportunity to create a better relationship with ourselves, which will bring the clarity as to our direction, and a direction that is for our highest good. From my experience, greater fulfillment is achieved by being an authentic expression of our true essence, helping others and sharing our passions.
As you take quiet time to listen, embrace and accept your inner chatter. Be present to the whispers inside your heart, process your fears and doubts, heal your disappointments, explore what brings you joy. Doing this inner work helps create a more intimate relationship with yourself. This is a great time to get real and be extremely authentic in all ways. Ask yourself questions such as, if I was leaving this world, what would I want people to say about me? What message of wisdom would I leave behind? How can I be more of an example of this message? What type of environment do I enjoy working in? What topics of interest do I enjoy talking, reading or engaging in? What type of industry do I feel a particular pull or tug toward and what kind of experience would I like to have? What would I like to create? Who would I like to collaborate with? What five things am I really good at? How would I like to share my talents? How can I share my gifts in the most enjoyable way? What would I like to learn? How will my contribution benefit others?
Write all your responses down in a journal. Do your research; speak to people you know, stay open to possibilities, and stay true to your heart. Set an intention, “I ask and intend to gain insight and clarity as to my highest and best way to express myself that allows me to feel fulfilled and contribute in a positive way to humanity.” The only person who can be you is you. There is no accident you are here on earth right now, and you are much needed. This time in your life is very purposeful — you are in a place of personal growth, this growth is creating inner strength, clarity, and is propelling you to have a new experience, one which your heart is seeking. It is OK to not have all the answers right now and for some people this can be a scary place to be, living in the unknown. I know, because I have been there. Be kind, patient and loving toward yourself during this chapter of your life.
Take one step at a time, focus on what you do know for sure and live in the moment fully. Observe what doors open for you. Pay attention to how you feel. The more you have the courage to trust this process and feel empowered in all ways, the whole world benefits. This is an exciting time for you, you are about to birth something new! You are choosing a new reality, one that is aligned with your true essence. This is building confidence and self-reliance.
Remind yourself, you are a glorious empowered divine being! Maybe you just need to be reminded that you are enough right now. From my heart to yours!
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Laurie Martin is a national speaker in the arena of self-love and empowerment. As a professional speaker, certified life coach, author, advice columnist, she shares her passion and knowledge guiding others to tap into their own inspiration. She is the author of the published book, “Smile Across Your Heart: The Process of Building Self-Love.” For more info, log onto www.SmileAcrossYourHeart.com or email questions at LaurieM@SmileAcrossYourHeart.com.