SMART TALK...Conversations That Matter
And Why Am I Here…
I had a conversation with an old friend last week. One of the things she said during our conversation was that she just couldn't figure out why she was on the planet.
And because it's mid-week, I wanted to remind you that you are here for a purpose and on purpose.
I recently started reading a biography of Warren Buffett, which is quite interesting. The Oracle of the West discovered his purpose in life early on, and it goes beyond just his investment strategies; it’s about understanding his reason for being.
As I read through the book, I did some additional research on why purpose is so important to our identities and how we present ourselves in the world. You might not spend as much time thinking about this as I do, but your purpose is actually found in the thoughts you entertain, consciously or unconsciously, at every moment.
Purpose is a cognitive process that defines your life goals and provides personal meaning. In other words, it’s a way of contemplating what you want to achieve, how to make sense of your life, and what you are meant to accomplish during your time on this earth.
Living a purposeful life doesn’t mean adopting a monk-like lifestyle or having constant "kumbaya" moments. In fact, it is the challenges we face that often guide us toward our true purpose.
Have you ever wondered why s..t* happens? Well, if it didn’t, you would miss out on growth opportunities. Knowing your purpose doesn’t mean that hardships won’t occur; it could simply indicate that you might be pursuing it in the wrong way.
So, how do you find your purpose? First, understand that purpose isn’t necessarily a calling. I often hear people say things like, “Being a pastor is my calling,” yet they struggle with it. That’s because being a pastor in a pulpit may not be their real reason for being here.
There’s a great word in Japanese, “Ikigai,” which means “a reason for being.” I learned this while living in Japan, and it helped me realize that my reason for being can include roles like being a great mom and a great leader. The way I apply the skills of motherhood can mirror how I lead, and that connection gives me my reason for being.
So today, on this Wisdom Wednesday, take a moment to reflect on your “reason for being.” Ask yourself how you can fulfill that purpose.
These are the conversations that matter.
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