Carissa Daniel

Seriously, What is My Purpose?

Most of us, during this time of the year, usually spend a great deal of time reflecting on our lives. We question and assess the results of the previous year and create intentions for the new, fresh, unfolding year.

It's also a time, when our 'purpose' comes into the spotlight. We ask ourselves, if what we are currently doing, is in alignment with our purpose or for a great majority, what is our purpose anyway?

Knowing exactly what my purpose is, has been a life long chase, yes a chase. Determining and answering this somewhat illusive question has placed a great deal of pressure on my mind and being for some time. 

In certain circles, knowing and living your purpose is of utmost importance, as it is purported that this is why we are here. And if you aren't living your purpose, well essentially you are wasting this precious life you were given.

There was a memorable point in my life when I sat with myself and said, "Self, what is your purpose? Why are you here? What are you meant to be doing." After several self-inquiry sessions, I thought I figured it out. I had it, it was perfectly defined into a single statement. I felt great. It gave me the satisfaction I thought I was seeking for all those years, until it didn't. 

I eventually became miserable. I sought to ensure that every step, every action, every choice was in alignment with this so called purpose. Job opportunities, business ventures, life partners and friendships all had to fit within this narrow definition of what I thought my purpose was.

But, something was wrong, it had to be. All of the books, videos and purpose, advocate leaders all told me that once I figured out what my purpose was, life would flow, everything will then fall into place. While I agree it felt like a long standing itch was finally satisfied, it didn't feel as graceful as I thought it would be.

I developed what most called tunnel vision. The experience was similar to placing my hands on the sides of my face to block out my side periphery, only being able to see what was directly in front of me. While this tunnel vision helped me to be more focused on what was before me, it cheated me of seeing and experiencing everything else.

After a while, I eventually abandoned the notion of a single, solo purpose, which felt more limiting than expansive. I then gave myself the permission to see the truth that every step, every stage, every adventure, every up and every down, every in and every out, was all my purpose, was all a part of the purpose I was already partly living.

This was without a doubt a pivotal moment in my life. It took away the need to satisfy the external voices, the self-inflicted pressure and it gave me the space to be more curious, explore, experiment and try new things, which, believe it or not, led me to uncovering fully what was there all along.

This approach to realizing my purpose helped me to sift and sought, gaining insight and 'intel', bringing light to a more integral discovery and the precursor to unveiling my purpose. It drove me to embark on the most meaningful journey, of myself, truly learning and remembering who I am.

Once I reconnected with this truth, knowing my purpose, what brought me joy, what lit me up, how I wanted to express myself and how my soul wanted me to serve the world, became apparent.

Instead of trying to figure out mentally, something that was meant for the heart, I gave my attention to learning how to tap into my soul. I learnt its language and tuned into its soft, yet powerful uttering, which guides me in each moment to express my purpose.

I agree, we all have something very special and unique to share with the world, something that can only be expressed by us. It is our light, it is our mission, it is our purpose. It is already a part of who you are. It is who you are. There is no need to make it happen, just allow it to happen.