Oh, The Places You’ll Go: Pinning Down Your Purpose

How to make sure you know where you’re going and how you’re going to get there.

Pinpoint your destination.

Who doesn't like to travel? Most people love the adventure of seeing new places, eating new foods, and making memories with people they care about. Not to mention the fact that adventures make for great posts on social media, and sometimes even bragging rights!

But do you approach your life with the same careful planning and excitement that you apply to road trips? You may want to. Read on to find out how to make sure you know where you are going in life, and how to map out your journey to ensure that you arrive at your destination safely.

First, Find Your Vision

Focus on what you care about.

The first thing that needs to happen in your purpose-journey, is to find a vision. You need to be able to see in your mind's eye where you want to end up. Yes, that can seem very intimidating. How do you know where you want to end up?

You may not be able to pin down the exact details, but you can definitely find a vision that will take you in the right direction. Then you can let the details work themselves out as you go along. After all, that is part of the adventure, right?

Finding your vision has a lot to do with knowing yourself. We talked about that in a previous post on self-awareness. In addition to the tips we provided in that article, try doing things like spending time in nature, getting involved in a service project, or taking an actual trip. These things have a way of opening our eyes and giving us a new perspective.

Maybe you will discover a mentor who has great qualities that you want to try to emulate, and that becomes your purpose. You might decide to stop a habit that is holding you back, or start a new one that will give you an extra push forward. You might discover a way you can help someone else. Maybe you will find out that you have a knack for something that you didn't know about before.

Once you have a better grasp of who you are as a person, your vision will become much clearer.

Second, Make Some Goals

Brainstorm some of the details.

Now that you have a vision of where you are going, you need to figure out the best way to get there. Remember, this isn't going to be a perfect step-by-step plan. Make sure you that you account for unexpected opportunities that might come up along the way.

One way to begin making goals is to first write down your vision. Then, make lists of the things that you need to know in order to do it. What skills do you need to have? What kinds of previous experiences would be helpful? Who do you need to contact that can help you? How much time will things take? What kinds of supplies and resources are you going to need? You may need to make more than one list.

Decide when and how you will accomplish each of these goals. Break down the bigger things into smaller pieces. Take it one step at a time.

If you start to become discouraged at any point in this journey (which you probably will), you will need to remember the next point.

Third, Strengthen Your Commitment

Remember why you started.

You are going to need some motivation to keep going. All journeys become rough at some point. What will you fall back on that will inspire you?

The first thing is to never forget your vision. If you really want it and always remember it, it will keep guiding you.

Next, see challenges as stepping stones. Don't let them hold you back. Use them as lessons that will strengthen you and educate you in your journey.

Finally, share your vision and goals with someone you trust so they can mentor you and encourage you. Everyone needs a sidekick.

The Benefits of Finding Your Purpose

You will be healthier and happier.

There are so many benefits of finding and acting on your personal purpose. You will be happier, more satisfied, more hopeful, and even healthier. Finding your purpose will help you understand your personal worth and what you have to offer the world. Once you know that, you will be unstoppable.

What's stopping you now? Take the first step to finding your purpose before you click away from this page by deciding to really do it! Then make a plan and follow it. Adventure awaits!