Do you ever feel like you’re just going through the motions? One day bleeds into the next until years have passed, and you’re left wondering where the time went. You still have so much on your to do list, and you don’t feel you are making progress. Your stress level is going up, and your motivation seems to be stagnating. That is not a good formula for a more peaceful life.
You need something to shake up the routine. It’s a known fact that having passion and meaning in your life can break you out of your routine. You might be working hard right now, but are you getting anywhere with your work? Are you feeling excited and fulfilled? Does your hard work feel like it is contributing to your purpose?
Ask yourself these questions, and you just might find yourself living a more purposeful life.
What is really important to you?
Determine what’s most important to you. Is it helping others or personal achievement? Does music move your soul? Do you love to compete? What brings you the most joy and happiness? Chances are your passion in life is hidden in there somewhere.
What can you do about it right now?
Think short-term. What could you do right now that sounds exciting to you? While long-term goals can be more meaningful, it’s important to enjoy yourself in the short-term, too. Now might be the time to try skydiving or visiting New Orleans. Maybe it’s finally time to try out for the local theater.
Do you love to volunteer? What about helping with a local homeless shelter, or delivering meals to shut-ins? Giving your time is a great way to find what brings you joy and happiness.
What is your long term dream?
Now think long-term. Pursuits that are more meaningful are likely to require more time and energy. What do you want to do over the next ten years? If you could accomplish one thing in life, what would it be? What is the legacy you would like to leave for your loved ones?
What do you do like to do with your free time? 
This may seem like an odd question, but it can be very revealing, especially if you have limited amounts of free time. How are your spending your free time now? Keep in mind that if you are catching up on things you didn’t have time to accomplish, or doing projects you didn’t have time to schedule, it’s not really considered free time.
Think about the real free time – where you have the freedom to choose. For example, if you have a few hours or a Saturday to yourself, how do you choose to spend it? Are you building a boat in your garage or writing a post for your blog? Your ideal life might include your current hobbies on a larger scale. Think about why you enjoy the hobbies you currently spend time on.
What would you do if you had nothing holding you back?
Now for the big question – if you had more resources and unlimited time each day, how would you choose to spend your time? Spend some time reflecting on what your perfect day would look like – or even your perfect life.
What is holding you back now?
Get out of your comfort zone. Most of us are limited by our fear of failure or a fear of the unknown. However, the most meaningful activities are most likely outside of your comfort zone. Be courageous – explore all your opportunities. Don’t be afraid to dip your toe into the water. Dream big!
So, what’s your next step?
You have to make the choice – continue to go through the motions, or find your purpose. My recommendation – set a goal to find meaning in your life and to create a more exciting life for yourself. Start your journey to find your life’s purpose and passion. Give yourself thirty days and spend a few minutes each morning and night on the task. Close your eyes and listen to your heart. Write down whatever comes to you. Explore how you feel about it. After thirty days review your notes and your thoughts.
Did something resonate with you? If so, what are you going to do about it?
If not, don’t give up. Take some time to do something new. If you’re stuck in a rut, the easiest way to shake up your thinking is to try a new activity. Take a salsa lesson or book a dinner cruise. New experiences help to make each day unique. After a short break, go back and repeat your thirty days of reflection. Be patient with yourself, your answer will come.
Humans have been searching for the meaning of life since the beginning of time. While there isn’t a universal answer, it’s possible to find meaning in your own life. Avoid allowing your life to pass by without fully living it. Find what excites you. Find what fulfills you. Finally, find your purpose and build your life around it.
Find your purpose – find your joy!