The Problems with Purpose

Purpose has become a buzzword in recent times with associations of success stories and accomplishments. Unfortunately, this corporate view or "save the world" view of purpose has created a stigma surrounding the concept. 

In this discussion, we explore the many facets of purpose beyond just achieving big goals, especially if you’re the phase of Creating Your Encore Career]. We will look at how purpose can fit into both being and doing, and why it is essential to see purpose as a continuous process rather than a one-time event. 

It's essential to understand that individuals can have multiple purposes throughout their lives, and these purposes can change over time. Finally, we explore the importance of considering what might be interesting in the future when thinking about your purpose.  

Stigma around Purpose

  • Corporate view or save the world view of purpose creates stigma around it.

  • People sometimes feel pressure to have a big purpose, when a small purpose is also okay.

  • Reframing the purpose is important.

Facets of Purpose

  • Purpose is not just about saving the world or achieving big goals.

  • Consider the possibility that purpose can be about curiosity and learning.

Being Versus Doing

  • Understanding the difference between being and doing can help you find your purpose

  • Purpose can fit into both being and doing.

Multiple Purposes

  • Individuals can have multiple purposes throughout their lives that can change over time

Why Purpose is a Verb

  • Purpose is a continuous journey of self-discovery and exploration. It’s not a destination but a continuous process of growth and development.

  • Purpose is not just a goal to achieve but an ongoing action to pursue. It needs to be seen as a continuous process rather than a one-time event.

  • Consider what might be interesting in the future when thinking about your purpose.

In conclusion, purpose should not solely be associated with corporate success or saving the world. It is crucial to eliminate the stigma surrounding purpose and understand that it is not always about achieving big goals. 

Purpose can be as simple as discovering a new curiosity or learning something new. It's important to grasp the difference between being and doing to find your purpose, and it's okay to have multiple purposes throughout your life. 

Therefore, purpose should be perceived as a continuous journey of self-discovery rather than a one-time destination.