So many of us grow up being told to “chase our dreams.” We imagine the dream job, the dream house, the dream partner—visions of a perfect life that gleam like a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. But what if the pursuit of that dream life actually leaves us feeling more lost than fulfilled? What if there’s something deeper, more powerful, and more lasting than our dreams? That something is purpose.
Purpose is not about achieving a specific outcome. It’s not a promotion, a house, or a vacation lifestyle. Purpose is about contribution, alignment, and meaning. It’s what pulls you out of bed in the morning and makes you feel alive even when things aren’t going perfectly. Chasing dreams can lead to burnout or disillusionment if those dreams aren’t rooted in something deeper. But when you live from your purpose, you thrive even in the face of obstacles.
Dreams are often shaped by external influence—what we see on social media, what our parents wanted for us, what we think we “should” do to feel successful. Purpose, on the other hand, comes from within. It’s tied to your unique soul blueprint—your values, your natural gifts, your lived experiences. Dreams can be fleeting. Purpose evolves, but it stays with you. It grows as you grow.
When you pursue a dream that isn’t connected to your true purpose, it can feel like you’re climbing a ladder that’s leaning against the wrong wall. You might achieve success, but still feel empty or off-course. On the flip side, people who live with a strong sense of purpose often report greater fulfillment, resilience, and even better health—no matter what their external life looks like.
So how do you find your purpose?
First, get quiet. Turn down the noise of the outside world and tune into your own inner knowing. Meditation, journaling, and solo walks in nature can help you hear your inner voice. Ask yourself: What lights me up? What challenges have I overcome that I can help others with? What do people often come to me for? These clues can point you toward your deeper why.
Second, reflect on your values. What matters most to you? Integrity, creativity, service, freedom? Identifying your core values can help you make choices that feel aligned and meaningful. When you live in harmony with your values, you automatically begin to move in the direction of your purpose—even if it doesn’t look like the life you originally dreamed of.
Third, take inspired action. Purpose isn’t something you think your way into—it’s something you live your way into. Volunteer, start a passion project, join a cause, or mentor someone. Don’t wait until everything is perfectly clear. Clarity comes from movement. Each step you take reveals more of the path.
Fourth, pay attention to what feels easy and energizing. Your purpose often flows through your natural gifts and joys. That thing you do that feels effortless but lights up others? That’s a breadcrumb. Follow it. Purpose doesn’t always feel like a lightning bolt. Sometimes it whispers through the things that come most naturally to you.
Finally, allow your purpose to evolve. You’re not meant to stay the same forever, and neither is your purpose. What’s true for you now might shift in five or ten years—and that’s okay. Stay curious. Stay open. Keep asking deeper questions. Your purpose isn’t a destination. It’s a way of being in the world that brings your soul to life.
In the end, chasing a dream life might bring you fleeting highs—but living your purpose brings you lasting fulfillment. When you live with purpose, your life becomes the dream—not because it’s perfect, but because it’s real, rich, and meaningful. And that, more than anything, is what we’re all truly searching for.
When we think about change, the metaphor of a butterfly's metamorphosis often comes to mind. It's a beautiful and apt symbol of transformation, illustrating how profound shifts can lead to something extraordinary. But what happens when the discomfort of staying the same becomes greater than the fear of changing? Let's explore this journey through the lens of a butterfly's metamorphosis.
In the beginning, the caterpillar is content to inch along branches, consuming leaves without a care in the world. But as it grows, it starts to feel an unfamiliar restlessness, a discomfort that signals the need for a change. This mirrors our own experiences when the status quo no longer serves us, and we begin to crave something different, something more fulfilling. You may begin to sense a pull towards transformation, just as the caterpillar does before its metamorphosis.
As the caterpillar prepares for its transformation, it finds a quiet, safe place to weave its cocoon. This stage is crucial; it's where introspection and preparation occur. Similarly, when we sense that need for change, it's important to carve out time and space to reflect on what we truly want and how we might achieve it. Meditation and journaling may become daily practice for you, as you create your own cocoon of contemplation. These practices allow you to delve deeper into your desires and goals, helping you to map out a path toward the transformation you seek.
Inside the cocoon, the caterpillar undergoes a dramatic transformation. It may seem like a period of inactivity, but it's actually a time of intense change and growth. For us, this stage might involve learning new skills, seeking guidance, or simply allowing ourselves to imagine new possibilities. It's a reminder that transformation often requires patience and trust in the process. Unlike the butterfly, this may be a very challenging and uncomfortable time. During this phase, it's crucial to remain open-minded and resilient, even when the path forward feels uncertain. Embracing vulnerability and acknowledging the discomfort can lead to profound insights and personal growth. As we navigate this transformative period, support from friends, mentors, or a community can provide encouragement and reassurance, reminding us that we are not alone in our journey.
The cocoon stage is also an opportunity to shed old beliefs and habits that no longer serve us. It's a time to redefine our values and priorities, ensuring they align with our true selves and the future we envision. By doing so, we lay the groundwork for a more authentic and fulfilling life, much like the caterpillar that will soon emerge as a butterfly.
As the butterfly emerges from its cocoon, it struggles to break free. This struggle is essential, as it strengthens its wings, preparing it for flight. In our own lives, the challenges we face when pursuing change can be daunting, but they are necessary to build resilience and fortitude. Each hurdle we overcome equips us with the strength to soar. When we encounter obstacles, it's important to remember that these difficulties are not just barriers but opportunities for growth. They teach us perseverance and foster a deeper understanding of ourselves and our capabilities. Just as the butterfly must endure the challenge of emerging from the cocoon to gain the strength required for flight, we too must embrace the struggles that come with change.
Once free, the butterfly takes time to adjust to its new state, allowing its wings to dry and unfold. Similarly, when we embark on a new path, it's important to give ourselves grace and time to acclimate to our new circumstances. This period of adjustment is vital to embracing our transformation fully. For many, this may seem like a period of stagnation. You are no longer the person you used to be, but you are still unsure of the person you are. This uncertainty is natural and part of the journey. It's an opportunity to explore, to test your wings in this new phase of life. As you navigate this transition, allow yourself moments of reflection and curiosity. Engage with new experiences and perspectives, as they can help illuminate your path forward.
As the butterfly takes flight, it embodies the beauty of change and the courage it takes to embrace the unknown. We, too, can experience the joy and freedom that come with breaking free from old patterns and limitations. It's a testament to the possibilities that await when we dare to change. We see the world from a new point of view. We laugh louder, we sleep sounder, we love deeper and we live with purpose.
The butterfly's journey reminds us that change is a natural and necessary part of life. When the discomfort of staying the same outweighs the fear of the unknown, it's a call to action, urging us to trust in our ability to grow and transform. As we navigate our own metamorphoses, we learn to appreciate the journey as much as the destination, finding beauty in every step we take. Embracing change allows us to connect more deeply with ourselves and those around us, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. In this newfound freedom, we discover the strength to pursue our dreams and the wisdom to appreciate the journey, knowing that each moment is a vital part of our evolving story.
Ultimately, the metamorphosis of a butterfly teaches us that change, while challenging, is an opportunity to discover our true potential. It's an invitation to embrace the beauty of becoming something new, something greater than we ever imagined.
In embracing change, we honor our own journey of growth and transformation. Just as the butterfly emerges more vibrant and free, we too can find a new sense of purpose and joy, ready to take on the world with renewed vigor and hope.
In our fast-paced world, the pressure to achieve perfection can often overshadow the beauty of simply being present. We are constantly bombarded with images of idealized lives and unattainable standards. This pursuit of perfection can lead to stress, anxiety, and a sense of inadequacy. However, by shifting our focus to being present, we can find joy and fulfillment in the here and now.
Being present means engaging fully with the current moment, appreciating the small details, and embracing the imperfections that make life unique. It allows us to connect more deeply with our surroundings, our experiences, and the people we encounter. This connection fosters a sense of gratitude and contentment that perfection cannot provide.
Moreover, when we prioritize being present over being perfect, we open ourselves up to authenticity. We become more comfortable with our true selves, acknowledging our strengths and accepting our weaknesses. This authenticity encourages genuine relationships, as others are drawn to our openness and honesty.
In the realm of personal growth, being present fosters a mindset of curiosity and learning. Instead of focusing on flawless execution, we become more willing to take risks and learn from our mistakes. This resilience builds confidence and encourages innovation, as we are not paralyzed by the fear of failure.
In our professional lives, the emphasis on presence over perfection can lead to greater creativity and productivity. When we let go of the need for everything to be perfect, we allow ourselves the freedom to explore new ideas and approaches. This can result in more dynamic and effective solutions, ultimately benefiting our careers and the organizations we work for.
In relationships, being present enhances communication and understanding. By truly listening and engaging with those around us, we foster deeper connections and empathy. This approach enriches our interactions, leading to more meaningful and fulfilling relationships.
In the realm of self-care, being present encourages mindfulness and wellbeing. It helps us to slow down and appreciate the moment, reducing stress and increasing our overall happiness. By focusing on the present, we can better manage our mental and emotional health, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
For those pursuing creative endeavors, being present allows for greater artistic expression. By embracing the process rather than fixating on the end result, we tap into our innate creativity and produce work that is both authentic and inspiring. This approach celebrates the journey and the growth that comes with it.
In education, teaching the value of presence over perfection can empower students to explore their passions without fear. It encourages a love of learning and fosters an environment where curiosity is nurtured. This perspective helps students develop a growth mindset, preparing them for lifelong success.
Ultimately, choosing to be present rather than perfect is a powerful act of self-acceptance and liberation. It allows us to live more fully, savoring the richness of life’s experiences without the burden of unrealistic expectations. By embracing this mindset, we can find peace and joy in the present moment, leading to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I just finished reading Jim Murphy’s Inner Excellence; and one nugget of advice that stood out to me was “Don’t is like the K in Know.” Think about it!! Every time you say “I don’t want to fail”, your brain hears “I want to fail.” Every time you say “I don’t want to gain weight” or “I don’t want to be alone”, your mind might just skip over the "don't," focusing instead on the very thing you're trying to avoid.
Instead, let's flip the script!
How about saying, "I want to succeed," "I choose to be healthy," or "I embrace meaningful connections"? By reframing your thoughts, you can guide your mind towards positive outcomes and create a mindset that supports your goals.
Jim Murphy's words remind us to be mindful of our inner dialogue. What we say to ourselves can shape our reality. So, let’s focus on what we truly desire and watch our lives transform!
By shifting our focus to positive affirmations, we not only change how we speak but also how we perceive and interact with the world around us. This simple yet powerful change in language can significantly impact our mindset and actions. When we articulate our goals in a positive light, we create a mental image of success that propels us forward.
Consider the analogy of setting a GPS for a journey. If you focus on where you don’t want to go, you’re more likely to get lost or end up in the wrong place. However, by clearly defining your destination, you set a direct path towards achieving it. Similarly, when we focus on positive outcomes, we align our actions with our aspirations, creating a clear path to success.
Embracing a positive mindset can enhance our resilience. Challenges and setbacks are inevitable, but when we are guided by positive intentions, we are better equipped to overcome obstacles and persevere. Each positive statement becomes a building block of resilience, strengthening our ability to bounce back and continue moving forward.
This means consciously choosing words that empower and uplift. Replace “I don’t want to be stressed” with “I am calm and in control.” Instead of saying “I don’t want to be late,” try “I am punctual and prepared.” These subtle yet meaningful shifts in language can redefine our experiences and lead to more fulfilling outcomes.
The power of words should not be underestimated. By acknowledging the invisible "K"—the negative undertones in our self-talk—and choosing to focus on what we want, we can transform our mindset and ultimately our lives. Let’s embrace the power of positive language and watch as it leads us to a brighter, more empowered future.
Your “job” should be something you love! Not something you settle for.
I was speaking with a client today, who admittedly LOVES what she does, but it is not her dream job.
Her dream job has six must haves:
- She earns a six figure salary
- She has a flexible work schedule
- She works from home, but travels often
- She is a valued member of a great supportive team
- She uses her creativity daily
- She gets to help people
She called me today to share: Her job is usually very hectic and stressful, but this week has been remarkably quiet. She has been able to get a lot of work done, she has had the energy to work out every day after work, and she has been flexible in her schedule to get other things taken care of in he personal life.
But today she was served an ice cold reminder that this is not her dream job.
Today, she was at a Lunch and Learn sponsored by one of her work contacts. At one point, she turned around in her seat and saw her immediate supervisor sitting at the next table over. She waived hello, her supervisor smiled. After the even ended, she turned around to greet her supervisor, but he had already left.
This small interaction left her feeling a bit disconnected and reminded her of the lack of camaraderie she truly desires in her work environment. It wasn't just about the missed opportunity to catch up with her supervisor; it was about the realization that although her current job meets many of her needs, it doesn't fulfill her deeper aspirations.
Reflecting on this, she decided that it is time to take concrete steps towards her dream job. We began by making a list of actions she could take to move closer to her ideal career. Updating her resume and LinkedIn profile to highlight her skills and experiences that align with her dream role; and reaching out to her network to explore potential opportunities that might offer the flexibility and creativity she craves.
Additionally, we discussed ways to incorporate more of her passions into her current job. Possibly proposing a new project that allows her to use her creativity more extensively or suggesting team-building activities that could foster a greater sense of comradery.
As we discussed these possibilities, she felt a renewed sense of determination. She realized that while her current job might not be her dream come true, it was a stepping stone on her journey.
With each thoughtful step, she was getting closer to a career that not only met her needs but also brought her genuine joy and fulfillment.
What steps are you taking to create the job of your dreams?
