As I do quite often, I contemplate thoughts about life.
Those thoughts encompass things like: ‘What is my purpose in life (and I mean beyond survival and reproduction)?’ ‘Am I fulfilling my destiny?’ ‘What kind of a legacy will I leave behind to those that know and love me?’ ‘Do I feel like I am being true to the person I am?’ ‘Do I feel fulfilled in my life’s journey?’
As humans, we walk through this life trying to find meaning and through this journey, most seem to find their niche in life and passionately pursue it. I believe that most people are astute enough and are led to sometimes internally evaluate themselves as to their satisfaction in day-to-day living and accomplishments, culminating in their final life story and the legacy they will leave behind.
“For decades, psychologists have studied how long-term, meaningful goals develop over the span of our lives. The goals that foster a sense of purpose are ones that can potentially change the lives of other people, like launching an organization, researching disease, or teaching kids to read.
Indeed, a sense of purpose appears to have evolved in humans so that we can accomplish big things together—which may be why it’s associated with better physical and mental health. Purpose is adaptive, in an evolutionary sense. It helps both individuals and the species to survive.
“Many seem to believe that purpose arises from your special gifts and sets you apart from other people—but that’s only part of the truth. It also grows from our connection to others, which is why a crisis of purpose is often a symptom of isolation. Once you find your path, you’ll almost certainly find others traveling along with you, hoping to reach the same destination—a community.
https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_to_find_your_purpose_in_life
Although you may disagree, I believe that we should live with intention and not with regret. Sure, as humans we make mistakes and sometimes things don’t exactly turn out the way we want, but if we have a path set before us and because of unknown factors at the time are unable to accomplish our goals, there should be no regret.
In an article written by Joshua Becker, The Helpful Guide to Living an Intentional Life, he says, “Recently, I spoke to a room full of high school students…Among the advice that I gave them, I offered this nugget of truth: “Don’t just drift through life. Live with intention and purpose.” I believe that is one of the most important lessons that a person can learn—and the sooner we get it, the better.
"Living a simple life certainly requires intentional living.”
The article can be read in full at: https://www.becomingminimalist.com/the-helpful-guide-to-living-an-intentional-life/
Although I certainly don’t have the space in this column to do justice to this topic, I hope I have inspired you enough to possibly getting to know yourself better, find out who you are so that you have a level of life-satisfaction as you live your days.
“The quality of your commitments will determine the course of your life.” – Ralph Marston
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
