What do you want out of life? Does what you do fill you with purpose? If not, it’s time to find meaning in what you do.
Consider this – If you’re cleaning tables and sweeping the floor at a fast food restaurant, you’re doing more than picking up dirt. Beyond creating a safe environment, you’re picking up people’s spirits. How so? When a customer walks into a space that’s clean – a space that is cared for – they feel cared for too.
There is purpose in what you do.
I was forty-two years old when I began to ask myself if the job I was doing was filling me with purpose. Up until that time, it was a job that I had and it was a career in communications. Sure, there was purpose in what I did, but I began to realize that I wasn’t fulfilled. My role had helped me to grow and I wanted to keep growing.
God was calling me forward to discover my “why”. My purpose.
The age of forty two happens also to be the same age of my father when he passed away. When I put that into perspective, I realize I could have gone my entire life without searching for purpose in my work.
When I began to ask myself, ‘What do I want out of life?’ The answer was, ‘to connect with people in a meaningful way and to make a difference in their lives.’
That’s when I made a change, going to work in non-profit and years later creating a motivational platform.
Through my blog, I’ve discovered a path to inspire others to live purpose filled lives. Hosting a middle school assembly, cable show and a podcast, I’ve found a way to bring people together to raise each other up. And working in development and marketing at a nursing home, I’ve connected with people, in meaningful ways, who have had to leave their homes for their health and safety. I’ve been able to use my communication skills to serve vulnerable populations of youth, elderly and those seeking purpose for their lives.
Whatever I do. Wherever I am. That’s what I want to do.
So now, it’s your turn.
Are you finding purpose in the work that you do? If not, it may be time to refocus your view.
Consider how your work is impacting the lives of others. It may be as simple as seeing the good that you get to help create.
Read. Learn. Volunteer. Pray. Find a mentor who will help you find your “why” and surround yourself with positive people who want to see you grow in your role and in your career.
Because whatever you do, you’ll find find the most fulfillment when the work that you do is done with purpose.
At age 44, I found my purpose. I was an empty nest mother and very lost. My husband said I needed a job! At this age? What ! I had an R.N. license but never used it when I married and had children. Didn’t feel confident to enter back at that late time. A dear friend said why not work at the local bank ….great day time hours, no weekends or evenings(in those days) close to home. Viola ! I walked in and was interviewed by the manager and he hired me on the spot ! It turned into 19 years of meeting new people (some lifetime friends) wonderful co workers, learning skills and gaining confidence that I was contributing . It was life changing. I had a network of people who were spiritual mentors ,was able to be a good listener for others who needed a confidant, and at the same time be a reliable employee.
Thank you for sharing your wonderful story, Toni. That took courage to step into a brand new role. You took a chance and made the most of it, discovering your gifts along the way. I got to be one of your customers who came to know and admire you. Your ability to create meaningful relationships while serving others truly made you one of the best. And it’s who you are today.