Meaning Purpose Life

"Our purpose is hidden in our joy, our inspiration, our excitement. As we act on what shows up in our life, our purpose shows up." ~ James King

Life with Purpose and an Open Heart
By Melanie Votaw

A sense of purpose requires an open heart. It means you have a reason for being. It means you're making a contribution to the world in some way. One of the most profound things about purpose is that it recognizes how we're all in this together. It recognizes the connection and oneness that exists between all things. It takes us out of our own petty ego dramas and gives us a feeling of belonging. On a day-to-day basis, it gives us a reason to get up in the morning.

Purpose can be found in every aspect of your life. You can find purpose in raising your child, making the day better for your spouse, helping an elderly neighbor, participating in a group, or volunteering. Purpose isn't only found in the work that you do, but the trick is to find a vocation that will allow you to make a living while also feeling that you're making a contribution to the world.

Dispelling the Myths

There are two myths that tend to keep us from finding purposeful work. The first myth is that "giving" means we don't also receive. There's a belief among many people that if you're helping someone or offering something that is healing, you "shouldn't" accept money for it. But remember that money is just paper and ink. What you're really exchanging is energy. You give one kind of energy, and you're given a different kind of energy in return. Besides, how can you take care of your body's needs if you can't accept money for your service? Many a healer has become burned out from having to work a dull day job and still find the energy for healing others during off hours.

The other myth is that work is toil. We have been taught in our culture that "work" is the opposite of fun. It's such a pervasive belief that most people hate their jobs. One of the best ways to begin to loosen the grip of this negative belief is to locate people who love their jobs. Read about them, talk to them, and learn about them. The more you see others doing it, the more you will believe it's also possible for you.

If you're struggling to find work that will give you the sense of purpose you long for, begin to find purpose in other areas of your life. Where can you offer something good? It doesn't have to be some grand thing. The simple things in life mean a lot. It might just be a kind word to a friend or a smile to a stranger on the street. You might begin by simply making more of a connection with people every day. Send someone you miss a card letting him or her know how you feel. A sense of purpose requires an open heart, and luckily, open hearts are contagious.





You are invited to rate and comment on this article. Share ways you connect and open your heart?