Faith: This Easter, Passover, Ramadan connect to your why, your purpose
Living with intention and purpose is a holistic practice that involves integrating our beliefs, values and actions into a coherent and meaningful whole. It requires us to identify our unique talents and strengths and to use them in service of something larger than ourselves.
One of the first steps in discovering our "why" is to engage in self-reflection and introspection. This involves taking the time to examine our beliefs, values and priorities, and to identify the areas of our lives where we feel most fulfilled and energized. We also may consider the impact that we want to have on the world and the legacy that we want to leave behind.
Once we have a clear sense of our purpose, we can begin to live it out in our daily lives. This may involve setting goals and objectives that align with our purpose, as well as prioritizing our time and energy in ways that allow us to pursue our passions and make a positive impact on the world.
Living with intention and purpose also requires us to cultivate a sense of mindfulness and awareness in our daily lives. This means being present and fully engaged in each moment, rather than allowing our thoughts and emotions to pull us in different directions. We might engage in spiritual practices such as meditation, prayer or yoga to help us stay grounded and connected to our inner selves.
Additionally, we might seek out community and support from others who share our values and aspirations. This might involve joining organizations or groups that align with our purpose, as well as seeking out mentors and role models who can guide and inspire us on our journey.
While living with intention and purpose can bring a sense of fulfillment and meaning to our lives, it is not always an easy journey. We might face setbacks and challenges along the way, and it can be difficult to stay motivated and focused in the face of adversity. However, by staying connected to our "why" and seeking out support and guidance from those around us, we can stay aligned with our purpose and continue to make a positive impact on the world.
Additional questions to ask yourself:
What inspired you to discover your "why"? Was it a particular event or experience, or a gradual realization over time?
How has your "why" changed or evolved over time? Have there been any significant shifts in your values or priorities that have influenced your sense of purpose?
How do you measure the impact of your "why"? What metrics or indicators do you use to assess whether you are making progress towards your goals?
How do you balance your "why" with other aspects of your life, such as work, family, and personal interests? Is there ever a conflict between your purpose and other obligations or responsibilities?
How do you stay accountable to your "why"? Do you have a support system or accountability partners who help you stay on track?
What advice would you give to someone who is struggling to discover or define their "why"? What resources or tools can help them explore their purpose?
Let’s go on this journey together. As a therapist with lived experiences, I promise you that I will not suggest something that I have not tried myself.
Robin Johnson is a psychotherapist, consultant, and professor whose passion is to provide quality mental health services to marginalized communities. For more information visit our website at flourishsanctuary.com. Doing Good Together is provided by interfaithtexas.org.
This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Connect to your purpose this Easter, Passover, Ramadan
